Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Abu Dhabi

Where Arabian grandeur, desert adventure, and family discovery meet deep within the Empty Quarter

At a glance

Rising from the flame-coloured dunes of the Rub’ Al Khali, Anantara Qasr Al Sarab is one of the world’s most dramatic desert resorts. Designed as a fortified Arabian palace, the resort blends cinematic landscapes, refined Middle Eastern design, and warm Anantara hospitality.

Set over two hours from Abu Dhabi, this is a destination that feels truly removed from the everyday. Families come for the space, the sense of adventure, and the rare chance to experience the desert together — from camel rides and stargazing to private pool villas and immersive cultural moments.

Why families love it

A rare chance for children to experience the magic of the Empty Quarter desert

Spacious rooms, suites and villas designed for families, many with private pools

A dedicated Kids’ Club with cultural and nature-led activities

Thrilling desert adventures balanced with calm pools and shaded spaces

Flexible dining, including family-friendly restaurants and in-villa dining

A safe, fully hosted environment with excellent service and intuitive care

Where you'll stay

The resort features 207 rooms, suites and villas, all with uninterrupted desert views and interiors inspired by Arabian heritage. Every category includes generous bathrooms with oversized tubs and rain showers.

From £/night*

*Prices from are indicative only - see Terms & Conditions for details.

Rooms

Deluxe Balcony Room (45 m²) – Upper-floor rooms with private balconies overlooking the dunes; accommodates up to 2 adults and 1 child.
Deluxe Garden Room (45 m²) – Ground-floor rooms with private terraces opening onto landscaped gardens; ideal for families with younger children.
Deluxe Terrace Room (50 m²) – Corner rooms with expansive terraces and panoramic desert views; king bed only.

Suites

One Bedroom Anantara Suite (106 m²) – A refined family-friendly suite with separate living room, garden terrace and space for one child.
Two Bedroom Anantara Family Suite (178 m²) – Designed specifically for families, with two bedrooms, a generous living area and garden terrace; accommodates up to 5 adults and 1 child.

Villas

One Bedroom Anantara Pool Villa (195 m²) – A private desert hideaway with plunge pool, outdoor dining and personal villa host; accommodates 2 adults and 2 children.
Two Bedroom Anantara Family Pool Villa (304 m²) – Ideal for families, with king and twin bedrooms, private pool and butler service.
Three Bedroom Anantara Family Pool Villa (375 m²) – Designed for larger families or groups, with expansive indoor–outdoor living and private barbecue space.
Al Sarab Villa (853 m²) – A statement private residence with grand majlis, pool, jacuzzi and butler service.
Sahra Villa (489 m²) – A four-bedroom palatial villa offering absolute privacy, large terrace and private pool, ideal for milestone family celebrations.

View Room Types

Rooms

Deluxe Balcony Room (45 m²) – Upper-floor rooms with private balconies overlooking the dunes; accommodates up to 2 adults and 1 child.
Deluxe Garden Room (45 m²) – Ground-floor rooms with private terraces opening onto landscaped gardens; ideal for families with younger children.
Deluxe Terrace Room (50 m²) – Corner rooms with expansive terraces and panoramic desert views; king bed only.

Suites

One Bedroom Anantara Suite (106 m²) – A refined family-friendly suite with separate living room, garden terrace and space for one child.
Two Bedroom Anantara Family Suite (178 m²) – Designed specifically for families, with two bedrooms, a generous living area and garden terrace; accommodates up to 5 adults and 1 child.

Villas

One Bedroom Anantara Pool Villa (195 m²) – A private desert hideaway with plunge pool, outdoor dining and personal villa host; accommodates 2 adults and 2 children.
Two Bedroom Anantara Family Pool Villa (304 m²) – Ideal for families, with king and twin bedrooms, private pool and butler service.
Three Bedroom Anantara Family Pool Villa (375 m²) – Designed for larger families or groups, with expansive indoor–outdoor living and private barbecue space.
Al Sarab Villa (853 m²) – A statement private residence with grand majlis, pool, jacuzzi and butler service.
Sahra Villa (489 m²) – A four-bedroom palatial villa offering absolute privacy, large terrace and private pool, ideal for milestone family celebrations.

Dining for all ages

Dining at Qasr Al Sarab reflects the richness of Arabian flavours alongside international favourites:

Al Waha – An indulgent breakfast restaurant with Middle Eastern and global cuisine.
Ghadeer – Poolside dining by day, transforming into a relaxed evening restaurant serving international dishes.
Suhail Rooftop Grill – A dramatic desert-view grill specialising in premium meats and sunset dining.
Al Falaj – Seasonal open-air Levantine dining under the stars.
Naseem Pool Bar – Family-friendly pool bar for light meals, snacks and refreshments.
Al Liwan – Lobby lounge serving teas, coffees and light bites throughout the day.

Private dining, desert barbecues and in-villa dining are also available.

Experiences for all ages

Kids’ Club – Supervised activities inspired by desert life, culture and nature.
Desert Adventures – Camel trekking, dune bashing, desert drives, sandboarding and guided walks.
Nature & Culture – Falcon and Saluki shows, stargazing and Bedouin-inspired experiences.
Active Pursuits – Tennis, padel, fat biking, yoga and fitness sessions.
Signature Experiences – Camp Nujum desert evenings, private barbecues, outdoor desert cinema screenings, and curated Anantara dining experiences.

Wellness for parents

The award-winning Anantara Spa is a sanctuary of calm set against the dunes:

Moroccan hammam and desert-inspired rituals
Seven treatment suites for individuals and couples
Heated jacuzzis, steam rooms, sauna and ice room
Signature Rub’ Al Khali healing sand therapies
Fully equipped fitness centre and private yoga sessions

Family Logistics

Around 2.5 hours from Abu Dhabi International Airport

Private transfers available

Baby cots and rollaway beds on request

Kids’ Club and family-friendly pools

Main family pool, adults-only infinity pool and villa private pools

Family Suite Exclusives

Exclusive perks designed to make your family feel truly welcome — from personalised gifts for little travellers to complimentary activities and flexible check-in options.

Booking via The Family Suite includes:

TFS Exclusive Credit: £100 (or equivalent in local currency) towards a family experience

*Subject to Terms & Conditions

Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)

Room Upgrade (Limited to Anantara Suite & subject to availability)

To enquire and access your Family Suite exclusives, please complete the form below. Your request will be shared directly with the hotel’s reservation team.