By Guest Reviewer, for IMGW News
Step into a world of golden dunes, starlit dinners, and serene desert luxury. In IMGW News’ first-ever travel review, our guest writer explores Dubai’s newly reimagined Bab Al Shams Desert Resort – where tradition meets tranquility. A must-read for seekers of unforgettable escapes.
This May, I spent five days immersed in the quiet elegance of this desert sanctuary, and the experience proved nothing short of magical. Nestled among golden dunes on the outskirts of Dubai, the property offers a tranquil retreat where the fast pace of the city gives way to stillness, warmth, and a deep sense of Arabian charm.
First Impressions
From the moment of arrival, the resort’s storybook setting is undeniable. Winding stone corridors, flickering lanterns, and shaded courtyards evoke the feeling of an ancient desert fort. The check-in process was seamless and gracious, with warm, attentive staff setting the tone for a relaxed and personalised stay.
Rooms & Amenities
Rooms are tastefully designed, blending comfort with character – earthy tones, rich textiles, and modern conveniences enhance the sense of place. My room overlooked the desert and featured a private terrace, ideal for morning coffee or watching the sun dip below the dunes.
That said, a few elements missed the mark. The bathroom felt unexpectedly cramped, lacked a bathtub, and offered amenities that seemed more befitting a three-star airport hotel than a luxury desert resort. Around the main pool, however, the experience was exemplary – palm-lined, serene, with staff offering chilled water in mini iceboxes. Less enjoyable was the QR-only menu system, which became impractical under the bright sun and with an overheating phone.
Dining Highlights
Culinary offerings were a standout. Al Hadheerah, the resort’s open-air signature restaurant, transforms dining into spectacle – complete with live cooking, traditional music, and even camel and horse shows beneath the stars. The variety and quality were excellent.
Elsewhere, a range of international and local options were beautifully presented and well executed. The Asian restaurant, overlooking the dunes, offered a serene setting for sunset cocktails and sharing plates. Standouts included the sushi, salads, and a notably good burger – all clearly made from fresh, quality ingredients.
Activities & Experiences
Guests can enjoy everything from camel rides and desert safaris to falconry and archery. But the real magic often lies in the quieter moments: the stillness of early morning, the distant call to prayer, and the brilliance of the desert night sky. During my stay, a Lamborghini test-drive event added an unexpected dash of excitement – a unique experience in such a serene setting.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for cultural immersion, a romantic escape, or simply a pause from urban life, Bab Al Shams delivers an experience that is both grounded in heritage and elevated by thoughtful service. It’s more than a resort – it’s a place to slow down, reconnect, and feel the pulse of the desert.
