From Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter to Dubai’s Lahbab Desert, these resorts and tour operators redefine desert luxury:
1. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa (Dubai)
The Oasis: Nestled in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, this eco-luxury resort offers villas with private pools overlooking the dunes.
VIP Safari Highlights:
- Private guided nature walks to spot gazelles and Arabian oryx.
- Sunset camel rides followed by a bespoke dinner in your villa.
- Falconry lessons with expert handlers.
Why Book Here?It’s Dubai’s most iconic desert escape—perfect for couples and wildlife lovers.
2. Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort (Abu Dhabi)
The Palace in the Sands: Inspired by ancient Arabian forts, this resort sits in the Liwa Desert, home to the UAE’s tallest dunes.
VIP Safari Highlights:
- Private dune bashing sessions with a champion driver.
- Overnight “Bedouin Camp” experience with stargazing beds.
- Dates and Arabic coffee served upon arrival.
Why Book Here?The Liwa Desert’s remote beauty feels otherworldly.
3. Sonara Camp (Dubai)
The Gourmet Experience: This eco-friendly camp pairs adventure with fine dining under the stars.
VIP Safari Highlights:
- Helicopter transfers from Dubai.
- A multi-course dinner by celebrity chefs, paired with premium wines.
- Fire dancers and live music in a private section of the camp.
Why Book Here?Foodies will love the fusion of local and international flavors.
4. Telal Resort Al Ain (Abu Dhabi)
The Cultural Gem: Located near Al Ain’s UNESCO-listed sites, this resort blends heritage with luxury.
VIP Safari Highlights:
- Private archaeology tours to ancient tombs and forts.
- Camel caravan experiences with traditional Emirati guides.
- Spa treatments using local ingredients like dates and camel milk.
Why Book Here?Ideal for history buffs and families.
5. Desert Islands Resort & Spa (Sir Bani Yas Island)
The Wildlife Adventure: Part of a nature reserve, this resort offers desert safaris with a safari twist.
VIP Safari Highlights:
- Guided drives to spot cheetahs, giraffes, and hyenas.
- Kayaking through mangrove forests followed by a beach BBQ.
- Private villa stays with butler service.
Why Book Here?Where else can you mix desert dunes with African wildlife?
What’s Included in a VIP Desert Safari Package?
While offerings vary, most VIP packages cover:
✅ Private transportation (4×4, helicopter, or vintage cars).
✅ Exclusive use of a luxury tent, villa, or camp.
✅ Personalized activities (dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding).
✅ Gourmet meals (often with a private chef).
✅ Cultural entertainment (falconry, henna, live music).
Extras to Look For:
- Spa treatments in the desert.
- Photography sessions to capture your adventure.
- Hot air balloon rides at sunrise.
How to Choose the Right VIP Package
- For Romance: Opt for overnight stays with private dinners (e.g., Anantara’s Bedouin Camp).
- For Families: Resorts like Telal offer kid-friendly activities like camel rides and treasure hunts.
- For Thrill-Seekers: Pick packages with dune buggies, quad biking, or skydiving (yes, some include that!).
- For Culture: Choose experiences with Emirati guides, traditional meals, or heritage tours.
Tips to Make the Most of Your VIP Safari
- Timing Matters: Visit October–April for cooler weather (avoid summer, when temperatures hit 45°C+).
- Pack Smart: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a scarf for sand. Resorts provide the rest (yes, even Gucci kaftans!).
- Book Early: VIP camps have limited capacity—reserve 2–3 months ahead for peak seasons.
- Communicate Preferences: Allergies? Dietary needs? Tell the resort in advance—they’ll customize everything.
Why VIP Desert Safaris Are Worth the Splurge
Let’s talk numbers:
- Average Cost: AED 2,500–AED 15,000 (680–680–4,080) per person.
- Value: Compared to standard safaris (AED 300–AED 500 per person), VIP packages offer privacy, personalization, and premium perks.
- Memories: How do you put a price on watching the Milky Way from your private camp or bonding with falcons in the wild?
Beyond the Dunes: Pair Your Safari with a City Stay
Combine your desert adventure with UAE urban glamour:
- Dubai: Stay at Burj Al Arab or Atlantis The Royal post-safari.
- Abu Dhabi: Unwind at Emirates Palace after exploring Liwa’s dunes.
- Ras Al Khaimah: Try the world’s longest zipline at Jebel Jais.
Many resorts offer combo deals with city hotels—ask when booking!
The Future of Desert Luxury in the UAE
Sustainability is the next frontier. Resorts like Sonara Camp use solar power and biodegradable materials, while new projects like The Sustainable City Desert Resort (opening 2025) promise zero-waste stays. Even luxury is going green!
Final Thoughts: Your Desert Dream Awaits
The UAE’s VIP desert safari resort packages aren’t just trips—they’re transformations. They turn the stark beauty of the desert into a backdrop for lifelong memories, whether you’re savoring a date pudding under a starry sky or racing over dunes as the sun dips below the horizon.
So, why settle for a cookie-cutter tour? In the UAE, the desert isn’t just a place—it’s a VIP invitation to live boldly, luxuriously, and authentically.
Note: Always confirm activity details and safety standards with your resort. Prices vary by season and inclusions.