How to experience the desert in luxury at Qasr Al Sarab

Robert Gultig

2 January 2026

How to experience the desert in luxury at Qasr Al Sarab

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Written by Robert Gultig

2 January 2026

How to experience the desert in luxury at Qasr Al Sarab

The luxury travel market has witnessed a remarkable resurgence in recent years, particularly in unique destinations that offer exclusive experiences. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the global luxury travel market was valued at approximately $1.2 trillion in 2022 and is projected to reach $2 trillion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.5%. In the Middle East, the demand for luxury experiences in remote and unique locations, such as the Liwa Desert where Qasr Al Sarab is located, has significantly increased, with a 15% rise in luxury hotel bookings reported in 2022 compared to the previous year.

1. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Qasr Al Sarab is a leading luxury resort in the Liwa Desert, known for its stunning architecture and opulent services. The resort offers 205 villas and suites, with a focus on providing a luxurious and immersive desert experience.

2. Emirates Airlines

Emirates is renowned for its luxurious travel experience, boasting a fleet of over 270 aircraft. The airline reported a passenger capacity of 56 million in 2022, emphasizing its role in promoting luxury tourism in the region.

3. Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA)

The TCA plays a crucial role in enhancing the luxury tourism sector in Abu Dhabi. The region saw an increase of 30% in luxury tourist arrivals in 2022, reflecting the growing appeal of destinations like Qasr Al Sarab.

4. Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Al Wathba Hotel, a part of Marriott International, offers luxurious accommodations in the desert. The brand reported a 20% increase in bookings in 2022, showcasing the demand for upscale desert experiences.

5. The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi

This luxury hotel has become a significant player in the luxury hotel market, with a focus on tailored experiences. The Ritz-Carlton brand continues to have a market share of over 5% in the Abu Dhabi luxury segment.

6. Banyan Tree Al Wadi

Banyan Tree Al Wadi offers a unique blend of luxury and nature, with its desert villas. The brand is recognized for its commitment to sustainability and has seen a steady growth in demand for eco-luxury experiences, with a 15% increase in bookings since 2021.

7. Four Seasons Resort, Abu Dhabi

Four Seasons is synonymous with luxury, and its Abu Dhabi resort offers a lavish desert experience. The brand accounted for approximately 7% of the luxury hotel market share in the UAE in 2022.

8. Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort

Al Maha offers guests an exclusive experience in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. The resort reported a 25% increase in luxury bookings in 2022, highlighting its allure for high-end travelers.

9. Desert Adventures Tourism

As a premier tour operator in Abu Dhabi, Desert Adventures focuses on luxury desert experiences. The company has reported a 40% growth in luxury tour packages since 2021, catering to affluent clients.

10. Arabian Adventures

Arabian Adventures specializes in tailored luxury experiences in the UAE, including desert safaris. The company has maintained a strong market presence, with a reported 35% increase in luxury tour bookings in 2022.

11. Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts

Jumeirah is a key player in luxury hospitality, offering unique desert experiences. The brand holds a 10% market share of the luxury hospitality sector in the UAE.

12. Al Ain Oasis

Al Ain Oasis offers a blend of luxury and cultural experience, with its palm groves and heritage sites. The area has seen a 20% increase in luxury travelers, attracted by its unique offerings.

13. The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

This resort is known for its luxury and beachfront access, complementing desert experiences. The St. Regis brand captures approximately 6% of the luxury hotel market in the UAE.

14. The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

This unique attraction offers luxury falconry experiences, appealing to high-end tourists. The hospital has seen a growth of 50% in luxury clientele in recent years.

15. Qasr Al Hosn

This cultural landmark offers luxury cultural tours, showcasing Abu Dhabi’s history. The site reported a visitor increase of 30%, particularly among luxury travelers in 2022.

16. Luxury Desert Safaris by Abu Dhabi Tourism

These exclusive safaris offer a unique way to experience the desert. The luxury safari market has seen a growth of 25% in the last year, largely due to rising interest in unique desert experiences.

17. Liwa Oasis

Liwa is a breathtaking oasis offering luxury camping experiences. The area has seen a 15% increase in luxury bookings, appealing to travelers seeking tranquility and adventure.

18. Qasr Al Sarab Camel Racing Experiences

Camel racing is a unique cultural experience offered at Qasr Al Sarab, attracting affluent tourists. This niche market has seen a 30% growth in interest among luxury travelers.

19. Desert Spa Experiences

Luxury spas in desert resorts provide unique wellness experiences. The spa market in luxury resorts has seen a 20% rise in demand, driven by wellness tourism trends.

20. Gourmet Dining Experiences at Desert Resorts

High-end dining options in desert resorts have become a focal point for luxury travelers. A significant 25% increase in gourmet dining experiences has been reported in the past year, further enhancing the appeal of desert destinations.

Insights

The luxury travel market in the Middle East, particularly in desert regions, is expected to continue its upward trajectory. With a projected growth rate of 8.5% annually, luxury tourism is becoming increasingly vital to the regional economy. The demand for unique, immersive experiences is driving investments in luxury accommodations and services, with Qasr Al Sarab leading the way. As travelers seek to escape the ordinary and indulge in extraordinary experiences, the future looks bright for luxury tourism in the desert, with continued growth expected through 2030.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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