Bab Al Shams

Flung 27 km out from Dubai into the desert, just eight kilometres from the international airport, Bab Al Shams is a spectacular retreat from the high energy and glamour of the UAE’s hottest cities. It’s a pleasingly rustic property, with soft, almost Adobe-style architecture that blends into the sea of sand that surrounds it, and yet it still manages to create its own opulence. Colourful soft furnishings and carpets bring a playful tone, while large bathtubs and double sinks in every en-suite make rooms feel special.

There are several pools throughout the property for cooling down in the desert heat, and lush gardens are a refreshing retreat from the arid outlook beyond your windows. The property takes on an almost magical feel come nighttime, when its staircases and squares are lit up with Arabian lanterns. Dinner is a special occasion here, with an open-air Middle Eastern restaurant with live music each night, a pan-Asian rooftop lounge with excellent views, and Mediterranean all-day dining concept to please even the fussiest of eaters.