Desert luxury is all about golden sands, dramatic sunsets, and a touch of extravagance. For many, deserts are mysterious and wild, but they also make perfect locations for some of the world’s most opulent resorts. Whether you're craving a serene escape or an exotic adventure, luxury desert resorts offer unique experiences that combine natural beauty with top-tier comfort. Below, we’ll explore some of the most celebrated luxury desert resorts and what makes them must-visit spots for travel enthusiasts.
1. Amangiri, Utah, USA
Nestled in Canyon Point, Utah, Amangiri is all about blending in with nature while offering a modern, high-end stay. Surrounded by the vast landscapes of the Colorado Plateau, this resort feels private and secluded, yet it promises an unmatched level of luxury.
Amangiri is famous for its stunning architecture, which was designed to complement the desert’s rugged terrain. The neutral tones of the building blend seamlessly with the scenery, making it a favorite for those who love minimalist aesthetics. The suites are spacious, sleek, and equipped with private pools, giving you breathtaking views of the rocky surroundings.
At Amangiri, adventure and relaxation go hand in hand. You can take a guided hike through mesmerizing slot canyons or ride a hot air balloon for unforgettable views of the desert. Don’t forget to unwind at the resort’s award-winning spa, where treatments are inspired by local Navajo healing traditions.
Perfectly positioned near iconic attractions like Lake Powell and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Amangiri is the ideal base for exploring the American Southwest.
2. Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE
Dubai is known for its glamour, so it’s no surprise that Al Maha Desert Resort is one of the most luxurious desert retreats in the world. Located in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, this resort is famous for its eco-conscious approach without compromising on opulence.
Each suite at Al Maha is styled like a traditional Bedouin tent with Arabian décor, plush linens, and a private infinity pool overlooking the dunes. The sense of privacy here is incredible, with every suite offering uninterrupted views of the rolling sand.
Al Maha offers uniquely Arabian experiences, such as camel treks, falconry shows, and dune drives. Their on-site fine dining restaurant specializes in dishes that fuse international flavors with Middle Eastern ingredients. And if wellness is your goal, the resort’s spa delivers top-tier treatments inspired by the nature surrounding you.
What makes Al Maha extra special is its commitment to preserving the desert ecosystem. By staying here, you’re not just indulging in luxury but also supporting a resort that values sustainability.
3. Six Senses Shaharut, Israel
Located in the Negev Desert, Six Senses Shaharut offers a tranquil escape that immerses visitors in authentic desert life while maintaining every bit of the luxury the brand is known for.
The architecture here blends seamlessly with the desert’s rocky hills. The suites and villas are built with local natural materials and are positioned to provide panoramic views of the sunset-drenched desert. Private pools, outdoor showers, and minimalist design create a perfect balance of sophistication and serenity.
Guests can enjoy activities like stargazing in crystal-clear skies, yoga in the desert, or camel rides through the sand. For foodies, dining with farm-to-table ingredients grown on-site is a treat that connects you to the land around you. Don’t miss their spa, where treatments combine modern wellness practices with ancient traditions.
Six Senses Shaharut is a cultural experience. The resort incorporates local storytelling, craft workshops, and cooking classes into its offerings, making your stay more enriching.
4. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi, UAE
The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort is located in the Liwa Desert, also known as the Empty Quarter, one of the largest uninterrupted sand deserts in the world. This resort redefines luxury in the heart of the desert.
Qasr Al Sarab looks like something out of a fairy tale, with its fortress-like architecture surrounded by dunes as far as the eye can see. Rooms are adorned with rich fabrics, handcrafted furniture, and traditional Emirati designs, creating a blend of comfort and culture.
Qasr Al Sarab is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go dune bashing, fat biking, or try desert yoga. Guests also rave about their desert camel trek under the stars, which includes a traditional Bedouin-style dinner in the middle of the sands. Fancy a more laid-back activity? The panoramic infinity pool is perfect for lounging while soaking in the majesty of the dunes.
The resort takes pride in delivering a cultural experience, from showcasing Emirati art to providing guided lessons about desert wildlife and plant ecosystems.
5. Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, Namibia
Few places conjure up images of untamed desert beauty like Namibia, and Sossusvlei Desert Lodge takes full advantage of its breathtaking surroundings within the Namib Desert.
Designed to make the most of the crisp desert air and endless starry skies, each glass-fronted villa is equipped with telescopes for stargazing. The design strikes a perfect balance between modern luxury and the raw, awe-inspiring beauty of the Namib.
Adventure highlights in the region include guided 4x4 tours across shifting sand dunes, nature walks, and scenic helicopter rides. This lodge is also a haven for wildlife lovers, as you’ll likely spot oryxes, springboks, and other creatures adapted to desert life.
Their dining experience is equally memorable, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy your meals under the open sky as the colors of the day fade into dramatic, fiery hues.
6. The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort, Ranthambhore, India
While India might not immediately come to mind when you think of desert resorts, The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort offers a unique experience in the semi-arid region of Ranthambhore. Known for its proximity to the Ranthambhore National Park, this resort combines luxury camping with immersion in the natural world.
The Oberoi’s luxury tents offer plush interiors and hand-stitched canopies inspired by mughal design. Each tent features private decks and spacious bathrooms, so you can enjoy the wilderness without sacrificing comfort.
The main draw here is, of course, visiting Ranthambhore National Park to spot Bengal tigers, leopards, and other exotic animals. The resort also arranges bird-watching tours and guided nature walks. When you’re not on safari, unwind in the temperature-controlled pool or indulge in the world-class spa treatments.
The Oberoi Vanyavilas provides a rare luxury experience that’s deeply connected to its unique surroundings.
If you're a travel enthusiast looking to escape the ordinary, a luxury desert resort could be your dream getaway. Each resort we’ve listed offers something unique, ensuring that your adventure into the sands will be unforgettable. All you need to decide now is which one to visit first!