Best Secluded Hotels in United Arab Emirates

The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert’s sister property, is a secluded, beachside affair. It also offers pool villas, but 32 rather than over a hundred and is just 15 minutes away via a free shuttle. The Bedouin influence remains, but with a coastal vibe (whites and blues reign over the decor), that’s particularly evident in the four-pavilion, sea-view spa. As this is a smaller resort, there’s just one restaurant, Shore House, but the hotel offers their version of breakfast in bed – a Balinese-style floating breakfast in pool. And private candlelit dinners on the beach can be arranged.

Offering something completely different, this resort is in fact set on an island, off the city’s coast. Here, wildlife including turtles, birds and gazelles roam in the Eden-like eco-setting. Guests arrive via a private launch and are accommodated across 20 deluxe tents each with its own private ocean-side pool. Earthy hues encourage the sense of returning to nature, without compromising on comfort. Healthy, organic cuisine is served indoors and out at Al Qurm, or in-room bespoke dining alternatives can be arranged. The Kingfisher Retreat also has a small spa and direct beach access.  access.

Beauty and luxury come together here at the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort. When you aren’t lounging in your perfectly decorated and absolutely luxurious room, you’ll love the lovely desert views and a few hours resting by the pool with a cocktail in hand. In addition to the breathtaking panorama of the hotel and its desert setting, there are also restaurants with breathtaking views next to the pool and on the roof. Enjoy the poolside bar where you can have a meal or snacks with your drinks while you take in the wonder that is the desert surrounding Abu Dhabi.

Forming a cluster of just 30 villas, this low-rise resort blends seamlessly into its surroundings, with thatched roofs and canopied buildings, Each has between one and two bedrooms, all have their own plunge pools, terraces and around-the-clock room service. A stay here feels much like a safari, as you observe the local wildlife pass by your door. Dine al fresco at the African-inspired restaurant Savannah and unwind in the spa. Its nature-based, off-the-beaten-track setting makes the Al Sahel Villa Resort perfect for a romantic retreat (there’s also a babysitting service for parents needing some alone time).

If you really want to escape the rat race, come to the ancient dunes of the Al Wadi Desert. An uber-luxury take on Bedouin living, the accommodation includes tent-style buildings and mud-brick villas (all of which have their own infinity pools). The settlement is on Al Wadi Nature Reserve, so expect to spy plenty of gazelles and antelope. And there’s an abundance of unusual excursions organised by The Ritz-Carlton – both for kids and adults. Farmhouse restaurant served produce from its own smokehouse and garden, plus there’s Kaheela for small plates and the Samar or Lobby Lounges for drinks and lighter bites. The spa has a hydrotherapy circuit, a rainforest experience and 10 regal pavilions.

Deep in the desert near Mshayrif is where you’ll find serene tranquillity with wellness at the heart of its mission for your next stay in the UAE, Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa. The boutique resort boasts 99 guest rooms and villas which feature classical nods, including traditional artwork and Arabesque accessories, pairing perfectly with their dining experiences where you can enjoy homemade recipes, inspired by the Arabian Gulf and Lebanon. From private balconies and comfortable twin beds to impressive villas with their very own plunge pool, comfort is at the click of a finger. And for those days where you want to explore your surroundings, the Al Wathba Resort offer various desert and lifestyle activities to bring that little bit of excitement to your stay, including camel rides, archery, horseback riding and desert walks

Stay in one of 64 bedrooms and suites or a pool villa overlooking the Arabian Gulf at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. All room categories come with private balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, the brand’s own bath products and classic furnishings in neutral shades, featuring Emirati motifs inspired by the surrounding desert. Eat and drink in five restaurants and bars; book treatments in the spa; and swim in one of three temperature-controlled swimming pools — including an enormous infinity pool beside the ocean, containing mini islands with palm trees. Kids have their own club with a programme of activities and adults can take part in watersports, or exciting excursions.