There is something about sleeping under an uninterrupted desert sky that resets a holiday entirely. A night or two in a luxury desert camp has become one of the most requested elements of any Middle East itinerary we build, and the region now offers some of the finest desert hospitality in the world, from architecturally striking eco-resorts to traditional Bedouin-style tented camps with every modern comfort.
Wadi Rum, Jordan
Made famous by Lawrence of Arabia, Wadi Rum’s towering red-sand valleys are home to some of the most atmospheric camps in the region, ranging from traditional woven Bedouin tents to futuristic glass-domed “Martian” bubbles designed for stargazing from bed.
Wahiba Sands, Oman
Oman’s desert camps lean quieter and more intimate than elsewhere in the Gulf, often family-run, with genuine Bedouin hosts, camel treks at dawn and considerably fewer visitors than the busier UAE desert circuit.
AlUla and the Empty Quarter, Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s newest desert resorts pair striking, design-led architecture with some of the darkest skies in the region, part of AlUla’s designated dark-sky reserve status, making these camps a genuine draw for stargazing enthusiasts.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi Desert Camps
The UAE offers the most polished, resort-style desert experience in the region, with private camps offering butler service, in-tent air conditioning, and dining that rivals the city’s best restaurants, all within an hour of Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
What to Expect from a Genuinely Luxury Camp
- En-suite bathrooms with hot water, not shared facilities
- Private dining, either in-tent or at a dedicated table away from other guests
- Climate control suited to cold desert nights and hot afternoons
- Activities such as falconry, camel trekking, stargazing and 4×4 excursions
Add a Desert Stay to Your Itinerary
A one or two-night desert camp works beautifully as part of almost any Middle East itinerary. Contact our specialists to include one in your next bespoke holiday.