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| Duration | Departure Point | Pick up Time | Pick up & Drop off |
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| Duration | Departure Point | Pick up Time | Pick up & Drop off |
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| Hotel / Apartment | Yes |
Arabian Tour Pacakges 
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I didn’t find myself here by accident; I came here on purpose. So after years hearing whispers about this desert gem, I packed up my things, left the city buzz and went to what became one of the most memorable trips I have had in the UAE.
The glistening skyscrapers of Dubai faded into my rearview mirror as I drove down Al Qudra Road, and the landscape began to change. The road appeared to dissolve into sands as the legendary figure of Bab Al Shams loomed into view. This was not a resort — it was a mirage made manifest.
At Bab Al Shams, they draw upon the heritage of ancient Arabian forts and replicate the decor with elegant authenticity. Think stone passageways, shaded courtyards, vine-covered walls and that heady whiff of oud and jasmine in the air. The design of the resort is intimate and majestic, with 115 rooms, all adorned in earthy colors and classic Arabic design elements that howl timeless elegance.
Pro Tips:
Request a room with a desert view—sunsets from your private terrace are unforgettable.
Arrive before sunset for that first magical glimpse in perfect golden-hour lighting.
Book direct for complimentary extras like early check-in or welcome drinks.
And the best thing about Bab Al Shams? You don’t need to go far to feel you’re in another world. But for the restless (like me), the resort is a treasure chest of desert adventures.
My days began by the temperature-controlled pool, a sumptuous retreat that looked as if the infinity edge vanished into the endless dunes. The silence was punctuated occasionally by a hawk's cry, the soft sound of water. And if you’re not staying the night, you can take in the pool with their cheap day passes.
Then I took a heart-in-my throat ride over the dunes in a 4x4, roaring across the sands with a guide who knew every inch of the terrain as if it were his own hand. Not only did we see Arabian oryx, desert gazelles and yes, a gecko or two scurrying along the sand. Pure magic.
Pro Tips:
Book your desert safari for sunrise or sunset—it’s cooler and far more scenic.
Don’t forget sunglasses and a scarf—dust storms happen fast out there.
The infinity pool is less crowded early morning—perfect for peaceful lounging.
At Bab Al Shams, food is sacred. Whether you’re a hard-core foodie or just here to relax, you won’t be short of choices. I spoiled myself with the legendary Friday Garden Brunch. Imagine tables adorned with Arabic treats galore, live kitchens, tender grilled meats, fresh tabbouleh, fancy biryani, sweets that bring tears to your eyes, all of those together.
And, if you’re feeling fancy, throw in a pool — it’s that kind of treat that makes every dirham seem small.
Pro Tips:
Book brunch and pool packages online to skip the long check-in queues.
Try the traditional Arabic coffee (gahwa) with dates—it’s part of the cultural experience.
Save room for dessert—the kunafa and pistachio baklava are to die for.
The allure of this resort isn’t simply the sand and the silence — but rather how effortlessly it integrates adventure into relaxation. One morning I figured I’d give archery a go (why not?). Under the tutelage of an experienced tutor, I was taught the centuries-old discipline of eyeing up a target and nailing the bullseye. Spoiler alert: I missed the bull’s-eye by a mile, but it was fun, all the same.
That evening I participated in a Nature Walk. It’s not just a walk — it’s meditative. You’ll learn about local plants, spot desert creatures, and end the walk staring at a sunset so ideal you nearly forget to snap a pic (nearly).
And, yes, desert tennis is a thing in these parts. Behind the beautiful Al Forsan restaurant is a court where you can get a sweat going against a backdrop of rolling sand dunes. It’s surreal and weirdly energizing.
Pro Tips:
Book archery or nature walks at check-in—they fill up quickly on weekends.
Wear light, breathable fabrics—desert heat can creep up even late in the day.
Bring a refillable water bottle—there are free refilling stations throughout the resort.
Now for something completely different: fat biking in the desert. Now with roommates Blackrock and Truckee and, on a seasonal basis, Black Rock Bicycle, 1up expanded into the food service business with the feasibility of delivery as a model that sells fenders and fatbikes both. It is an amazing way to hike and explore undulating dunes before they are trampled, especially if you are with a local expert. Believe me, the scenery is unbeatable, and there is no feeling like flying above the world.
Pro Tips:
Closed-toe shoes are a must—sand burns and bike pedals don’t mix well.
Go early morning for cooler weather and better lighting for photos.
Ask for a guided session—they’ll point out wildlife and scenic photo spots.
Let’s talk money—because luxury doesn’t necessarily have to cost a fortune. I did some heavy Google to find out the best package to book, and discovered that quite often they have packages that include pool access, lunch, brunch and adventure experiences for Bab Al Shams. The trick is:
Book midweek if you can. Those prices tumble Sunday through Thursday.
Look at the official sites and reliable travel platforms ?— you’ll frequently see combo deals that can save you hundreds.
:
Book midweek if you can. Prices drop significantly Sunday through Thursday.
Check official websites and trusted travel platforms—they often offer combo deals that save you hundreds.
Use a Dubai trip package that includes Bab Al Shams as part of a multi-day itinerary—these tend to be cheaper than booking everything separately.
Travel during shoulder season—you’ll get better rates, fewer crowds, and the same incredible weather.
Always call ahead—even if you book online, confirm your package, inclusions, and check for any available upgrades or limited-time offers.
Pro Tips:
Compare rates across platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, and the resort’s website.
Use travel reward points if you have them—many packages qualify for redemptions.
Follow Bab Al Shams on Instagram—they sometimes post last-minute deals in Stories.
Bab Al Shams is work of art a place that embodies the spirit of ancient Arabia and satisfies the most sophisticated of tastes for luxury. If you’re a couple in need of romance, a family looking to experience something different, or a lone wolf like me needing a different kind of peace in your life, this resort provides on all fronts.
This isn’t a place to sleep; it’s a place to be. To warm your skin in the desert sun. To experience the rush of a 4x4 rolling over dunes. That your heart could be stilled when a falcon spread its wings over the horizon.
So if you’re ever in Dubai, do yourself a favour — set aside one or two nights for Bab Al Shams. You won’t just be reserving a room. You will be buying a story you will tell the rest of your life.
