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 |
Picture yourself waking up in the golden light of an endless desert sunrise, with nothing but the soft gust of wind across miles of dunes to disturb you. Welcome to Bab Al Shams Resort and Spa, Dubai - an exclusive, low-rise resort in the desert surrounded by gently sloping dunes and natural desert landscape. There is something so incredibly magical about Bab Al Shams Resort and Spa Dubai, I say that as someone who has travelled through so many cities and life districts. It is as if you are walking into a timeless tale, but with all the added comfort of modern day life you could wish for.
In this article, I’ll tell you all about my experience, what to do out there, insider tips to make the best of your money and how to book the perfect tour to Bab Al Shams Resort and Spa Dubai. Trust me, you’ll abhor the place by the time you finish and itch at the prospect of a suitcase.
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa is more than just a place to stay it’s an experience. Crafted in the image of an Arabian fort, the resort enwraps guests in a labyrinth of stone corridors, verdant gardens and flowing fountains, and gardens so green they seem otherworldly in contrast with the desert. Every one of the 115 rooms is steeped in traditional Arabian elegance, but with all the modern luxury you could wish for.
From the second you pass through the arched gates of Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, Dubai, you are transported to another world a world that celebrates the history of the UAE but which also pampers your senses to the max.
Traditional Arabic fort-inspired architecture
115 luxuriously decorated rooms and suites
Surrounded by lush gardens, courtyards, and fountains
A perfect blend of culture and modern comfort
Exclusive and secluded atmosphere ideal for relaxation
While it is pure luxury, as savvy travellers we know there are tactics to help get the most out of your stay without breaking the bank. First, search for all-inclusive Bab Al Shams Desert Resort
packages; they often combine your stay with breakfast, pool and desert activities including archery or falconry shows.
Weekdays are generally less expensive than weekends, and if you can be flexible, off-peak tourist seasons (June through September) offer some good deals. Even better, the pool day passes are great if you just want to enjoy the resort without spending the night. Cards frequently offer dining as well as use of the beautiful climate-controlled pools and spa.
Book all-inclusive packages for the best deals
Visit during weekdays for lower rates
Travel off-season for big savings
Use pool day passes to access luxury amenities without staying overnight
Sign up for Bab Al Shams’ newsletter or loyalty programs for exclusive offers
One of the first things you’ll be wanting to do at Bab Al Shams is get to the pool. Imagine yourself floating in a temperature-controlled oasis, gazing out at an endless expanse of desert in front of you. Whether you pick the infinity pool, the Jacuzzi pool, or the private plunge pool, you’ll feel your troubles slipping away as you soak up the Arabian sun.
Even if you're just in for the day, a pool day pass grants you access to all of this decadence. It’s the best way to chill out without having to commit to the full stay — especially if you’re on a hectic Dubai schedule.
Three stunning pools, including infinity and Jacuzzi pools
Options for private pool experiences with desert views
Pool day passes available for flexible visits
Complimentary access for children under 4 years old
Temperature-controlled water for year-round enjoyment
No trip to Bab Al Shams would be a journey without a desert safari. Climb into a rugged 4x4 and ‘dune bash’ through towering sands and over rolling desert landmass as you keep watch for wild animals such as Arabian oryx and gazelle. And it’s a ride full of adrenaline and jaw drops, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the desert lights up with rust and red and gold.
But the safaris here are a bit different more exclusive, less touristy and extremely scenic. You can even opt for a traditional Emirati Bab Al Shams Desert Dinner with your safari for a full cultural experience.
Ride powerful 4x4s across majestic dunes
Spot rare wildlife in their natural habitat
Sunrise and sunset tours available
Personalized, smaller group experiences
Optional Emirati dining experiences post-safari
For something a little slower and more tranquil, try the Bab Al Shams Desert Nature Walk. With a guided tour by experts who know the desert like the back of their hand, explore the delicate beauty of this ecosystem, from hardy plants to tiny desert dwellers. And the real treat? Watching the circus of the sun setting over the dunes, turning colors in the sky that you never imagined the sky could turn that color across.
Nature walks at Bab Al Shams are personal and educational, and give an entirely different perspective to the desert environment.
Learn about desert flora and fauna
Experience a serene walk among rolling dunes
Watch unforgettable desert sunsets
Small group tours for a personal touch
Advance booking required to secure your spot
Experience the thrill of adventure by mastering one of the worlds oldest and most dynamic sports. With expert instructors leading the way, beginners can get the hang of it in no time (and perhaps even make a bullseye). It’s weirdly empowering to shoot arrows while standing in the middle of the Middle-earth-like desert setting as if you’ve walked into an olden-time tale.
It’s a good time if you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group of friends.
Expert instructors for all skill levels
Archery sessions available daily
All equipment provided
Kids and adults can both participate
Sessions must be booked in advance
Falconry is a significant part of UAE heritage and culture and Bab Al Shams puts it on the map. Observe these majestic birds of prey in flight and on the swoop during live demonstrations with our expert falconers.
But you have to choose which way you want to see it: A public show on the house, or a private thrill ride that takes you into the ins and outs of falconry.
See skilled falconry demonstrations
Learn about the history and cultural importance of falconry
Public and private sessions available
Kids will be fascinated by the birds' agility
Great opportunity for stunning photos
And, for a unique experience, consider a fatbike adventure over the dunes. Awfully fat to look at, they are fine for sand, reintroducing a whole new dimension of fun to exploring the desert. It is an unusual combination of adventure and fitness, and all of it is set against the vast desert horizon.
Bab Al Shams Camel Ride is conducted with professionals, so even if you have never tried fatbiking, you will be in good hands.
Ride custom bikes built for the desert
Guided tours ensure safety and fun
Great workout and exciting adventure
Suitable for children 12 years and older
Helmets and water provided
For sportos who just can’t stop exercising, Bab Al Shams has you covered. You can even play desert tennis at their custom-made court next to Al Forsan restaurant — sport with a view. Whether singles or doubles, it’s a fantastic way of burning calories while having fun.
If tennis isn’t your game there’s a fully stocked gym, too, and personal trainers for hire, as well as machines, weights and a plethora of cardio equipment.
Desert tennis courts with stunning views
Rackets, balls, and water provided
Fully equipped gym with modern machines
Personal trainers available upon request
Changing rooms for men and women
Booking the Perfect Tour to Bab Al Shams
Now, let’s talk logistics. Booking your tour smartly can make a huge difference. I recommend going through trusted travel agencies that offer packages inclusive of transport, meals, and activity vouchers. Look for deals that bundle experiences for example, pool access plus Bab Al Shams Brunch, or desert safari plus dinner it often costs less than booking separately.
Make sure you book your activities in advance too, especially archery, falconry, and nature walks, as they tend to fill up quickly. And don’t hesitate to call the resort directly — sometimes they have unpublished specials or seasonal discounts not listed online.
Use trusted travel agencies for bundled deals
Combine activities to save money
Book activities in advance to avoid disappointment
Call the resort for possible unpublished deals
Consider transport-inclusive packages for convenience
Bab Al Shams Resort and Spa Dubai is so much more than a luxury hotel it’s a full immersion into Arabian elegance, adventure, and serenity. Every corner tells a story, every moment feels special, and every activity leaves you wanting more.
Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family looking for unique experiences, or a solo traveler chasing new adventures, Bab Al Shams offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the desert.
So, next time you think of Dubai, don't just imagine skyscrapers and shopping malls imagine the timeless magic of Bab Al Shams Resort and Spa Dubai under a sea of stars.