Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & spa

In the stillness of the night, stars shimmer on the black surface of the pool, while shadows cast intricate patterns across the dunes, like Arabic calligraphy etched by the wind. The glittering spire of the Burj Khalifa appears as a distant mirage. You sit on the terrace of a single-story villa, enveloped in silence and a deep connection with nature. The temptation to rise, stretch your legs, and drive a sports car into the heart of Dubai—just 45 minutes away—crosses your mind. But you already know you’ll resist the urge and stay right where you are. 

Bab Al Shams, Dubai’s oldest desert oasis resort, has a rich history. It first opened its doors long before landmarks like the Burj Al Arab or the Palm Jumeirah existed. Even then, both locals and tourists sought a detox from the bustling city and a return to nature. A few years ago, the "Gateway to the Sun" changed ownership, underwent an extensive renovation, and reopened in 2023 with a fresh new look. 

The renowned design firm LW Design masterfully blended Bedouin aesthetics with modern luxury. Here, you can release a falcon into the sky, soar in a hot air balloon, drive across the dunes in a jeep, practice archery, or slip into a state of bliss during a massage with wild jujube (known locally as sidr). All this while staying in a comfortable villa—not a tent. 

  



The resort features eight new Desert Pool Villas, offering a sanctuary of privacy and comfort. Some villas have one bedroom, while others feature two. Each villa includes a spacious living area, a dining space, a private pool, and an outdoor fire pit. The interiors are adorned with ornate wrought-iron light fixtures, intricately patterned Middle Eastern fabrics, and soft, earthy tones. Carved details and textured accents create a cosy atmosphere, while large windows frame breathtaking views of the majestic sand dunes and serene green courtyards with palm trees. Sunlight and moonlight filter through windows that reach up to the domed ceilings, casting a gentle, diffused glow throughout the space. 

The resort’s Al Hadheerah restaurant is a destination in its own right, renowned far beyond the hotel for its authentic Arabic cuisine. The vibe: a whole lamb roasting on a spit under a blanket of stars. For those craving a taste of urban sophistication, Anw offers a pan-Asian menu, complete with dim sum, shisha lounges, intricate lanterns, a live DJ, and skyline views that evoke memories of Moscow. 

At Zala, age-old rivals—Greek and Turkish cuisines—find harmony on the same menu. Meanwhile, Ninive specialises in the flavours of the Middle East and North Africa. Exploring the resort’s diverse dining options is an excellent way to deepen your knowledge of Eastern culinary traditions. 

The spa at Bab Al Shams invites guests to discover the secrets of Eastern plants known for their ability to smooth, tighten, brighten, and calm the skin. Treatments are crafted using traditional Arabic recipes, while massage techniques are tailored to provide total relaxation. The most indulgent program lasts an impressive four hours, offering a comprehensive escape into wellness. 

Bab Al Shams is more than a resort—it’s a journey into the heart of the desert, where luxury meets tradition and every moment feels timeless.