Though inhabited for thousands of years by nomadic Bedouin tribes, Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter is one of Earth’s hottest, driest, and least hospitable environments. The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, however, is one of the planet’s most welcoming.
Thailand’s Anantara group modeled its latest resort, which sits adjacent to a 200-foot-high dune 90 minutes outside of Abu Dhabi’s capital, after an ancient Emirati fort. Accommodations Many of the property’s 206 guest rooms offer sundecks and private pools. Dining Options include meals in the rooftop restaurant with a wine cave or in a Bedouin-inspired tent among the dunes. Recreation A nearby 2,200-acre nature reserve, trekking through the desert by foot, camel, or air-conditioned 4x4. Rates From about $355 to $3,100 for a three bedroom villa.
