I know what you’re thinking: Why would anyone want to go into the desert when the city is at nearly unlivable temperatures?
I would have said the same thing had I not taken a drive out to Al Qudra last week to see the Perseid meteor shower. The takeaways: After dodging convoys of 4x4s to find the perfect secluded spot, fleeing a camel spider that invaded my picnic and trying to keep my eyelids open as sleep threatened to prevent my seeing any shooting stars (star count: three, maybe), I couldn’t help but remark how wonderfully pleasant the weather was just 40 minutes out of Dubai. I could have slept out there (gigantic terrifying spiders notwithstanding).
Even better: At this time of year, the UAE’s desert retreats — which all tend to be the epitome of luxury — drop their prices to those who dare to break a sweat. Here’s our round-up of the offers.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
This hotel in the Liwa desert, about as far out into the Empty Quarter as you can get within the UAE, is regularly listed alongside the world’s top hotels. The Desert Discovery Package, available until December 31, includes two nights’ accommodation in a deluxe room, suite or villa, daily buffet breakfast for two people, two desert activities per person per stay (choose from desert walk, camel ride, archery, fat bike and soft dune drive). Rates start from Dh1,390 per night (plus taxes and fees).
Source: GulfNews
