Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

The latest addition to the acclaimed Jumeirah International hotel collection, this recently opened resort brings to life the legacy of Arabia’s fascinating history and rich culture - but in an ambience of rustic ‘desert chic’.

A 45 minute drive from Dubai International Airport, Bab Al Shams (literally translated as ‘Gate of the Sun’) is an architectural wonder which appears to have suddenly come to life in the middle of the desert. From the outset, it resembles a traditional Arabic fort, but inside, the 115 rooms and suites combine a stylish ‘Gulf’ décor with luxurious modern comforts. The rooms are housed in sixteen, double-storied, uniquely designed buildings - with a choice between deluxe balcony rooms on the upper floor, or deluxe garden rooms with a patio or terrace on the ground floor. Junior Suites (on both the upper and ground floors) offer the additional space of a living area - and there are also some interconnecting rooms with suites for families.

Traditional Arabic cuisine prepared ‘on-view’ at a variety of cooking stations is the focus of the resort’s authentic open-air Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant where the ethereal magic of a desert sunset comes alive - whilst a more International menu is available at the central Al Forsan Restaurant - and for the best panoramic views across the dunes, head for a cocktail at the Al Sarab Rooftop Bar.

Warm and family-friendly, Bab Al Shams provides an extensive range of facilities including a gym, swimming pool (which incorporates a lap pool, leisure pool and a shaded children’s area), Sinbad’s Kids Club - and for parents, the relaxing Satori Spa. Desert activities such as 4x4 safaris, camel riding and horse-riding are also available.

PRICES Prices for 3 nights from £379 per person twin share in a Deluxe Room with balcony/terrace including breakfast and return airport transfers.