Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

A desert resort on the edge of the Empty Quarter, roughly two hours by road from Abu Dhabi, for travellers who want dunes rather than a beach.

Liwa, Abu Dhabi · UAE · Hotels

Qasr Al Sarab sits in the Liwa desert, inside the Rub' al Khali or Empty Quarter, the largest sand desert in the world. The resort is built in the style of a desert fort with the dunes rising directly behind it. People choose it for the setting first and the room second.

The official property page lists 140 rooms, 14 suites and 53 pool villas along with desert activities and spa facilities. Villas with private pools suit couples and anyone who wants to stay out of the main resort flow. Rooms and suites work for shorter stays where the activities matter more than private space.

Most guests arrive by car from Abu Dhabi. Plan for roughly two hours on the road each way and treat the resort as the destination rather than a base for day trips. Once there the schedule is set by the desert: early mornings and the hour before sunset are the times to be outside.

Who this hotel suits

Couples who want quiet and privacy
A two or three night desert stay rather than a single night
Photography around sunrise and sunset in the dunes

Good to know

Summer heat limits daytime activity from roughly May to September. October to April is the comfortable season.
Dining is on the property. There is no town nearby for an evening out.
Check which desert activities are included in your rate and which carry a charge.
Confirm transfer arrangements if you are not driving yourself.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Qasr Al Sarab from Abu Dhabi?

It sits in the Liwa desert roughly two hours by road from Abu Dhabi city. There is no public transport, so plan on driving or arranging a transfer through the resort.

Is Qasr Al Sarab good for families?

It works for families who enjoy the desert and are happy to stay on the property. Check room configurations and any age limits on activities with the resort before booking.

Plan the wider trip

How this listing was checked

The details above were checked against the official source below on 10 September 2026. We hold no confirmed rate, rating or offer for this listing, so none is shown. Nothing here was supplied or paid for by the business. Read our affiliate disclosure for how booking links work when they are live.

Anantara official property page · checked 10 September 2026