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What It’s Really Like Staying at Anantara Qasr Al Sarab

  • Writer: Laksventures
    Laksventures
  • Jul 7
  • 3 min read

If you’ve ever craved a place where time slows down and silence feels sacred, this is it. Anantara Qasr Al Sarab isn’t just a luxury resort tucked into the world’s largest sand desert — it’s an otherworldly escape where golden dunes stretch for miles and every moment feels cinematic. From the very first step onto the sun-baked sand, something shifts. You breathe easier. Think clearer. And remember what it feels like to be fully present.


The journey begins before arrival


My trip started at home, coffee in hand and playlist ready, as I drove deeper into the Rub’ al Khali — the Empty Quarter. The transformation from city streets to endless golden dunes is unreal. Along the way, I made a quick stop at a petrol station (featuring a friendly local in traditional wear, no less), before reaching the gates of what looked like a castle rising from the sand.


The drive from Abu Dhabi takes roughly 2.5 hours, and from Dubai, around 3.5–4 hours. Most of the journey is scenic and well-paved, with clear signage as you near the resort.


The drive from Abu Dhabi takes roughly 2.5 hours, and from Dubai, around 3.5–4 hours. Most of the journey is scenic and well-paved, with clear signage as you near the resort.

First impressions: luxury meets the landscape


Pulling up to Anantara Qasr Al Sarab feels like stepping onto a movie set — and for good reason: it actually was. Parts of the “Dune” films were shot in the surrounding area, which speaks to the surreal beauty of the landscape.


The resort’s architecture blends seamlessly with the desert, inspired by traditional Arabian forts. The warm welcome from staff set the tone for what would be a stay filled with intentional hospitality.


Check-in was smooth, and my room? A stunning blend of earthy tones, plush bedding, and a view that made me stop in my tracks. From my window: uninterrupted dunes, lit by the kind of golden light you usually only see on postcards.


Check-in was smooth, and my room? A stunning blend of earthy tones, plush bedding, and a view that made me stop in my tracks. From my window: uninterrupted dunes, lit by the kind of golden light you usually only see on postcards.

What to do at Anantara Qasr Al Sarab


There’s plenty to explore at the resort itself, even if you never leave the property:


  • Poolside peace — Surrounded by dunes, the infinity pool offers the perfect midday escape. Quiet, scenic, and utterly relaxing.


  • Spa day bliss — Think eucalyptus steam, desert silence, and soft lighting. I booked a treatment and ended up staying longer just to soak up the serenity.


  • Swing moments — You’ve probably seen the famous desert swing on IG. Yes, I wore a pink and white dress for it. And yes, it was just as magical as it looks.


  • Golden hour walks — The property glows in the late afternoon light. I highly recommend wandering the grounds right before sunset — the views are unreal.


  • Dining experiences — From laid-back poolside snacks to romantic dinners under the stars, the food here is varied and excellent. The Arabic mezze and tagines were personal highlights.


  • Desert activities — Camel treks, sandboarding, falcon shows, dune bashing, and even archery are all available for guests who want to explore beyond the spa and pool.


The vibe: slow, intentional, unforgettable


Everything here moves at a desert pace. It’s the kind of place where you start your morning on a swing, journal in hand, and end your day watching the sky turn rose gold. Even the food encourages you to linger — think aromatic tagines, fresh juices, and quiet breakfasts with a view.


Everything here moves at a desert pace. It’s the kind of place where you start your morning on a swing, journal in hand, and end your day watching the sky turn rose gold. Even the food encourages you to linger — think aromatic tagines, fresh juices, and quiet breakfasts with a view.

Travel tips for your own stay


If you’re planning your own visit to Anantara Qasr Al Sarab, here are some tips to help make the most of your trip:


  • Book at least 2–3 nights to fully unwind. One night isn’t enough to experience everything.


  • Visit between October and April for cooler, more comfortable weather.


  • Pack light layers — The desert can be hot in the day but cool in the evenings.


  • Make dining reservations early if you're visiting during peak season.


  • Bring sunglasses and sunscreen — The sun is strong even in winter months.


  • Download offline maps before you leave the city — phone signals can be patchy for parts of the drive.


  • Consider booking a villa with a private pool for added privacy and a surreal view right from your patio.


  • Leave space in your itinerary — don’t overschedule. This is a place best enjoyed slowly.


Anantara Qasr Al Sarab isn’t just a resort — it’s a reset. For anyone craving silence, beauty, and a break from the noise, this desert hideaway delivers it all. It’s a space where luxury meets stillness, and where every golden hour feels cinematic.

Where the dunes whisper and time slows down


Anantara Qasr Al Sarab isn’t just a resort — it’s a reset. For anyone craving silence, beauty, and a break from the noise, this desert hideaway delivers it all. It’s a space where luxury meets stillness, and where every golden hour feels cinematic.


If you’re dreaming of your own golden hour moments, consider this your sign. And trust me — once you've seen the desert glow in motion, you’ll understand why this place will stay with me forever.


📸 Laksventures at Anantara Qasr Al Sarab

Caught in the golden hour, wrapped in spa bliss, and living the slow life — swipe through my desert photo diary for a visual taste of stillness, sunlight, and style.



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