Authentic Desert Experiences

The desert is more than sand and silence – it is a place of magic, where time and space blur. In the Orient, travelers can experience this fascination in very different ways: sometimes royally in a desert palace, sometimes sustainably and modernly, sometimes very close to nature. From the iconic resort in the dunes to exclusive glamping under the stars: Here are five addresses that make the diversity of the desert uniquely accessible to us.

Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara – the palace in the emptiness

The Qasr Al Sarab is considered the epitome of Oriental desert luxury. The resort is located deep in the Liwa Desert and appears like a fortress from 1001 Nights, rising majestically from the dunes. Guests wander through palace halls, enjoy Arabian hospitality, and gaze from the terrace directly into endless sandy landscapes.

Activities: Camel rides at sunrise, guided dune hikes, falcon shows, or desert safaris in a 4x4. The spa with Arabian treatments rounds off the experience.
Charm: The combination of fairy-tale architecture and the sheer vastness of the Liwa Desert makes Qasr Al Sarab an unforgettable place for all who wish to feel like they are in another time.

Six Senses Southern Dunes – sustainable luxury in the kingdom

With the Six Senses Southern Dunes in Saudi Arabia's Red Sea Project, the hotel brand sets new standards. Here, the desert is not just seen as a backdrop, but as a space for experiences. The architecture is inspired by Bedouin traditions, while state-of-the-art sustainable concepts ensure comfort without compromise.

Activities: Hikes through dramatic dune landscapes, stargazing with telescopes, cooking classes with regional ingredients.
Charm: Guests immerse themselves in the authentic culture of the region and experience the desert at the same time as a place of the future – sustainable, conscious, and luxurious.

Banyan Tree AlUla – between rocks and history

In the north of Saudi Arabia lies AlUla, a place full of ancient sites and spectacular rock formations. The Banyan Tree AlUla blends seamlessly into this landscape: luxurious villas scattered among towering rocks, as if they were part of nature itself.

Activities: Outdoor yoga, guided tours to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Hegra, climbing and hiking experiences among rock walls, concerts at the Maraya Concert Hall.
Charm: The mix of archaeological depth, artistic aspiration, and spectacular nature makes AlUla and the Banyan Tree a highlight of culture and nature alike.

Bab Al Shams – Arabian tradition at the gates of Dubai

Just half an hour from Dubai lies Bab Al Shams, the “Gate to the Sun”. This resort is for those who want to enjoy a desert experience with an Arabian flair without driving for hours into the interior. The architecture resembles a traditional fort, and the atmosphere is both authentic and relaxed.

Activities: Camel riding, horseback excursions, traditional music and dance shows, desert safaris. Particularly popular: an outdoor dinner while the sun bathes the dunes in gold.
Charm: The proximity to Dubai makes Bab Al Shams ideal for shorter trips – it’s the perfect introduction to the world of the desert.

Canvas Club – glamping under the stars

For those who want to experience the desert up close yet comfortably, the Canvas Club in Oman is a true adventure. Here, you don’t sleep in a hotel, but in luxurious tents – equipped with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and a cozy ambiance.

Activities: Jeep tours through the Wahiba Sands, campfire evenings with Omani specialties, sandboarding, stargazing right from the tent.
Charm: This glamping experience combines the feeling of freedom and adventure with luxury. You are in the heart of nature – but without sacrificing comfort.

Conclusion – many paths, one magic

Whether it’s a fairy-tale palace, a sustainable future resort, a luxurious rock lodge, a traditional fort, or exclusive glamping: Every desert experience has its own unique charm. What connects them all is the fascination of the desert itself – the endless expanses, the tranquility, and the starry sky that turns every night into a spectacle. Anyone who really wants to understand the Orient should experience it in the desert.