Escape city life and unwind in serene luxury at Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
In need of some R&R, the Yalla Team recently headed to the desert for a rejuvenating staycation at Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa. Arriving at this luxury resort feels like stepping into another world – one far removed from city bustle yet accessible from all major UAE hubs. Set in the Abu Dhabi desert, the resort offers the perfect blend of seclusion and convenience, being less than an hour from Abu Dhabi city, just 90 minutes from Dubai, and about the same from Al Ain, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a quick escape without the hassle of long travel.
After a welcoming check-in, we were shown to one of the resort’s stunning villas. The resort’s private villas are truly luxurious, offering a serene and secluded retreat with private terrace, plunge pool and uninterrupted views of the rolling sand dunes. As well as these, our villa included a master bedroom with a plush king bed, a spa-like bathroom with a deep soaking tub and rain shower, an elegant lounge with flat screen TV, kitchen and a separate dining room, as well thoughtful touches like locally inspired amenities and curated artwork. We spent a very indulgent morning lounging on our terrace and relaxing in the plunge pool before heading inside to the beautiful lounge for a breakfast of fresh, cut fruit and specialty tea.
In the early afternoon, we strolled around the resort before heading to the stunning 1,000 square metre pool. Inspired by traditional Arabian architecture, the resort features sand-hued villas, intricate mashrabiya screens, and winding pathways that lead to shaded courtyards and open vistas of the desert dunes. For us, these pathways were one of the highlights of the resort. Walking these trails at night was magical and felt like exploring an old desert village – there’s a sense of discovery with each turn revealing a new vignette: a peaceful seating nook, a lantern lit alcove, or a bubbling fountain.
While there are plenty of dining options, including international cuisine from levantine, the poolside Panache, and the rooftop Al Mesayan serving elevated culinary offerings at the bar, the highlight of our stay was Terra Secca, the resort’s signature Italian restaurant. Fresh, handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, risotto and much more were on offer, married skilled Italian technique with local ingredients.
Outside of dining, the resort offers a wide range of activities. Seeking to recharge and rejuvenate, we experienced the beautiful and calming Saray Spa. Here, there are an array of treatments including desert sand scrubs, signature hammam rituals, hot and cold plunge pools, and even a snow cave, a refreshing contrast to the desert heat.
There’s much to do at the resort, and whilst we didn’t indulge given our short stay, there are camel and horse rides through the dunes, archery, guided nature walks, as well as state-of-the-art dune buggies for the thrill seekers. There is even a wave simulator for those who want to try something unexpected in the heart of the desert. Families are well catered for too, with a dedicated kids’ club, family pool, and a range of engaging activities that introduce little ones to desert life in fun and meaningful ways. There’s also a fully equipped fitness centre open 24/7 featuring both free weights and a complete circuit‑training setup for strength and cardio workouts, as well as wellness activities such as yoga, all in a dedicated pavilion.
We loved Al Wathba for many reasons but what sets it apart is its ability to create a sense of timelessness. Whether you’re floating in the infinity pool at sunset, enjoying shisha under the stars at Al Mesayan rooftop lounge, or waking to the rising desert sun, time slows down here. In the end, what makes this resort such a compelling staycation choice is not just its beauty or proximity – it’s the attention to detail. From the warm welcome and faultless service throughout, everything is designed to make you feel both at home and far away. Whether you’re a UAE resident seeking a long weekend recharge or a visitor hoping to experience the desert with five-star comfort, Al Wathba delivers with quiet confidence and lasting charm.
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