What if I told you that just a few hours from the futuristic skyline of Abu Dhabi, there’s a place so otherworldly—so silent, so surreal—that it makes you feel like you’ve stepped off the Earth?
Welcome to Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.
A luxury fortress rising like a mirage from the endless dunes of the Empty Quarter—or as locals call it, Rub’ al Khali, the largest uninterrupted sand desert on the planet.
Here, at what feels like the edge of the world, Mars doesn’t seem that far away.
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A Landscape Not of This Earth
Forget the green jungles and blue oceans.
This is pure elemental travel—where the sand burns red at dusk, and the sky, unpolluted by cities, wraps you in galaxies.
The Liwa Desert stretches in every direction like a living canvas of curves and shadows. And right in its heart, Qasr Al Sarab rises like something from an ancient Bedouin legend—or a science fiction epic.
You don’t walk here.
You float, barefoot on powder-fine dunes, every sense sharpened by silence.
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A Mirage Made Real
Translated, Qasr Al Sarab means “Palace of the Mirage.”
And it lives up to its name.
The resort looks like a desert citadel from a dream: towering sand-colored walls, domed ceilings, flame-lit courtyards, and endless arches that frame nothing but infinity.
But inside?
It’s all five-star fantasy:
- Your private villa comes with a temperature-controlled plunge pool, daybed, and uninterrupted views of the dunes.
- The spa uses desert ingredients—dates, camel milk, aromatic sands—for treatments that feel ancient and luxurious all at once.
- At night, the outdoor firepits crackle under constellations you’ve never seen so clearly.
If luxury had a silence level, this place would be at zero decibels.
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The Closest You’ll Get to Mars Without Leaving Earth
The moment the sun slips below the dunes, the entire desert turns shades of copper, amber, and blood-orange. There’s no traffic. No cities. No noise.
You feel small. But not lost.
More like… you’ve found a version of yourself that’s been waiting in stillness.
It’s the kind of isolation that billionaires pay for when they book tickets to space.
But here, it’s just you, the wind, and the wild.
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More Than a Stay — It’s a Desert Story
Qasr Al Sarab doesn’t just let you admire the desert—it pulls you into its rhythm.
You can:
- Ride a camel through the dunes at golden hour
- Learn ancient archery and falconry from Emirati guides
- Join a sunrise dune walk and hear the sand whisper beneath your feet
- Stargaze through high-powered telescopes, guided by a local astronomer
- Eat under the stars with a fire-lit, Bedouin-style feast
Every activity is wrapped in care, history, and a kind of reverence for the land you rarely find in modern luxury.
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How to Get There
- Fly to Abu Dhabi International Airport
- 2-hour drive through striking desert roads (the last hour feels like you’re driving through another planet)
The resort arranges private transfers with air-conditioned SUVs—because even journeys to Mars deserve AC.
Go For the Silence
Travel is often loud—crowds, airports, itineraries.
But Qasr Al Sarab is for the traveler who’s ready to listen. Not to people, but to the wind, the stars, and the quiet voice inside.
It’s not just a hotel.
It’s a portal—to another planet, or perhaps another part of yourself.
So if you’re craving not just escape but transcendence, let the desert call you.
You won’t forget the silence.
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FAQ
Whether you’re planning a trip or simply curious, here’s everything you need to know about this desert palace in the Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Where is Qasr Al Sarab located?
Qasr Al Sarab sits in the heart of the Rub’ al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, the largest continuous sand desert in the world. It’s part of the Liwa Desert, around 2 hours (about 200km) southwest of Abu Dhabi.
Despite its remote location, the resort is easily accessible by road and offers luxury transfers for guests.
Why do people say it feels like Mars?
The landscape around Qasr Al Sarab is otherworldly. Towering red-orange sand dunes stretch endlessly in every direction, with barely a sign of life. The stark, surreal terrain and fiery desert colors often mirror the surface of Mars — especially at sunrise and sunset.
Many photographers and filmmakers have compared the scenery to sci-fi landscapes, making it a favorite destination for those seeking unique, “out-of-this-world” adventures.
What kind of experience does the resort offer?
Qasr Al Sarab isn’t just about location — it’s an oasis of luxury in the middle of the desert. Visitors can expect:
- Lavish rooms and private pool villas designed with Arabian elegance
- Stargazing under pristine skies with no light pollution
- Camel trekking, dune bashing, fat biking, and sandboarding
- Desert yoga, wellness treatments, and spa therapies inspired by Bedouin traditions
- Traditional Emirati cuisine, served in stunning outdoor settings
- Falconry displays and immersive cultural activities
It’s both a relaxing retreat and a base for adventurous exploration.
Is it a family-friendly destination?
Yes. Despite its exclusivity, Qasr Al Sarab welcomes families with open arms. The resort offers:
- A kids’ club with desert-themed games
- Family camel rides and gentle dune experiences
- Child-friendly menus and babysitting services
- Educational opportunities to learn about Bedouin culture and wildlife
What makes Qasr Al Sarab unique compared to other desert resorts?
Few desert resorts offer the same blend of authenticity, luxury, and remoteness. While many luxury properties are near cities or in developed areas, Qasr Al Sarab stands out for being truly isolated — surrounded by nothing but sand and silence.
It was also designed to reflect traditional Arabian fortress architecture, seamlessly blending into its environment while offering modern comforts.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit is between October and April, when temperatures are cooler and more pleasant (ranging from 20°C to 30°C). Summers (May to September) can be extremely hot, often exceeding 45°C, but the resort remains open year-round with indoor activities and cooled spaces.
Has Qasr Al Sarab been featured in movies or media?
Yes! The resort’s cinematic landscape has made it a favorite for film crews and influencers. It has been featured in travel magazines, fashion shoots, and Middle Eastern dramas. The surrounding dunes have even been considered for use in science fiction and fantasy productions, thanks to their Martian look.
Is Qasr Al Sarab environmentally friendly?
Despite its luxury status, the resort is committed to sustainability. Some of its eco-friendly practices include:
- Water conservation technologies
- Use of local materials in construction
- Supporting local artisans and cultural preservation
- Limited energy consumption despite desert challenges
Can I visit Qasr Al Sarab without staying overnight?
While the resort is primarily designed for overnight guests, day visits are possible with advanced booking — especially for dining experiences, spa treatments, or desert excursions. However, spending a night allows you to fully experience the magic of sunset, starry skies, and sunrise in the dunes.
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Is Qasr Al Sarab worth it? Absolutely. Whether you’re seeking romantic isolation, family-friendly adventure, or simply want to disconnect from the world, Qasr Al Sarab delivers an unforgettable experience. It’s not just a resort — it’s a journey into another realm, where Earth looks like Mars, and luxury meets timeless tradition.
