Anantara Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort

Qasr al Sarab by Anantara is a desert resort located among the towering dunes of the Rub’ al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter.

A trip to the Arabian Desert has been on my list for quite sometime:

So, I treated myself to Qasr al Sarab’s 5 star luxury during an overnight layover in Abu Dhabi back in March 2016.

The 206 room hotel overlooks the largest uninterrupted sand desert in the world.

Qasr al Sarab offers a variety of recreational activities, but I only had time for two: Camel Trekking and Dune Bashing.

The Sunset Camel Trek includes a stop for refreshments and takes about 2 hours total.

At first I was afraid it was going to feel like a carnival pony ride, but I was pleasantly surprised.

The majestic desert at sunset and the quirky camels (and guides) made for an unforgettable evening.

As previously mentioned, the trek ends with refreshments:

And then a bonus treat of downhill sand dune running:

It’s trickier than you think!

I went Dune Bashing first thing the next morning:

That’ll wake you up, that’s for sure!

I wish my photos could capture the height of the dunes that we whizzed up and down.

It was invigorating and mind-blowing!

I never once felt unsafe, but this is definitely an action-packed activity for thrill seekers.

Needless to say, I had an outstanding time at Qasr al Sarab:

And all of the fun I had playing in the sand.

1 Qasr Al Sarab Road
Hamim 131277
United Arab Emirates
200 kms from Abu Dhabi International Airport

Sunset Camel Trek
- Price: 305 AED plus 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee per person
Sunrise Dune Bashing
- Price: 305 AED plus 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee per person