The Rub’ al Khali, known as the Empty Quarter, is the largest continuous sand desert on Earth. It stretches across the southern reaches of the Arabian Peninsula. Abu Dhabi’s desert region sits at its edge, and staying in that landscape is one of the most memorable things you can do in the UAE.
The Landscape Is the Experience
The dunes in the Liwa region are truly amazing, reaching incredible heights and changing colour from a soft gold in the midday sun to a rich amber and rust in the late afternoon. The silence is absolute, with no city noises, no traffic, and nothing but the gentle rustle of the wind through the sand. If you’re used to city life, this silence is immediate and incredibly powerful.
Desert Activities Done Properly
Staying in the desert opens up a world of activities that a day trip just can’t match. Dune bashing at sunset, camel treks into the stunning landscape, falconry shows, and stargazing on clear nights when the sky is a canvas of stars, all happening in the evening and early morning. An Abu Dhabi resort nestled in this beautiful setting makes all these experiences easy to enjoy without the hassle of planning them yourself. A great option to consider is Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.
The Architecture and Atmosphere
Desert resorts here often draw inspiration from the surrounding landscape and the area’s architectural history, and the truly exceptional ones do so with real passion. Features like thick walls, shaded courtyards, and architecture that respects the environment create a strong sense of place that many standard luxury hotels struggle to replicate.
