This place is a punch in the eye for all the people who think that Dubai only commits ecological excesses. A 30-minute drive from central Dubai (really you’d be better off booking a transfer through the hotel for the journey – it’s very easy to miss the detour if you’re in a taxi or self-driving, and the driveway could be very loose) . called a road), is remarkably inconspicuous, rising from the desert like a luxury Bedouin camp.
The villa complex is really one for couples – children under 12 are not even allowed.
Each villa has its own secluded private pool (heated or cooled as the season requires), so the only prying eyes you might see will belong to the rare, endangered Arabian Oryx. Al Maha actually has a total of 225 square kilometers (86.9 square miles) of desert nature reserve designated to itself and never feels crowded as outside guests are not allowed to use the facilities.
There’s only one restaurant, and to be honest, the breakfast and lunch buffets aren’t particularly inspiring. However, he ups his game at night, with a five-course menu packed with foie gras and Wagyu. You can also dine on your own private terrace, or be driven out into the desert, where your meal will be served and you’ll be left to lounge on cushions under the stars, complete with a phone to call a jeep when you’re done.
Hotel specials during the summer season are often a significant reduction on the standard rate, and the desert is surprisingly bearable in the heat, given that it has its own pool, shaded patio, and spacious air-conditioned room. to dive. A large spa with treatment rooms overlooking the dunes and sun loungers surround a large community pool. An impressive collection of Gulf architecture and antiques is featured in the guest rooms and public areas, and also, for those with an artistic bent, a chaise lounge, easel, and cake set are provided in each suite. Bathrooms, all with double sinks, large corner whirlpool tubs, and a walk-in shower, are huge, as are the purpose-built king-size beds.
This is the higher end of all-inclusive, with all meals (although no alcohol) and two complementary activities per day included: there’s a full program, from nature walks to ATV desert safaris and falconry displays. Many of these take place in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun.
Equestrian fans will be especially interested in riding the Arabian horses from the Sheikh Mohammed stables, but be careful: do not lie, because if you are not a very competent rider, you will be sent back to the hotel. Even the sunset camel rides here are a cut above: it may just be us, but the camels here seem a bit more inviting than the spitting dromedaries you’re usually expected to sit on.
Address: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, PO Box 7632;
Phone: 04-832-9900;
cost AED 3,200, includes meals and activities
To lease Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Number of rooms 42 rooms
room m2 75-530
conference facilities Yes
pool/sauna Yes
beach access Nope
exercise facilities Yes
Spa Yes
Parking/Valet Yes
licensed bar Yes
on-site dining Good dinner
Additional services Tea/coffee facilities, hairdryer
business services bussiness center
shuttle nozzles None
wheelchair facilities Yes