The best luxury hotels in the desert

Sun, sand and more sand

You’ve heard about sun, sea and sand, but what about sun, sand and more sand? Deserts offer a unique kind of beauty, with sweeping landscapes, endless horizons and the kind of peace you can't get anywhere else. Where else can you camel trek by day and stargaze by night, all before bedding down in some of the world’s most impressive hotels? If you fancy swapping the beach for the dunes, here’s a list of luxury desert resorts that’ll have you reaching for your sun hat.

Bab Al Shams, A Rare Finds Desert Resort, Dubai

While Dubai is known for its futuristic skyline, Bab Al Shams takes a more laidback approach – and it’s all the better for it. Just an hour outside the city, you’ll find this desert escape, where sandstone buildings huddle amongst the dunes. The rooms are massive (there’s plenty of space to go around out here) and the desert views are definitely the ones to go for. And despite being super trendy, it’s also family-friendly, so expect to see kids enjoying their desert adventures too.

Banyan Tree AlUla, Saudi Arabia

Set in Saudi Arabia’s stunning Ashar Valley, Banyan Tree AlUla is where you go when you want to feel like you're staying on another planet. With its standalone villas designed to look like tents, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re on a fancy safari. Don’t worry, though – these tents come with private pools and more comforts than you’ll ever need. Explore nearby ancient tombs carved into sandstone cliffs or just soak in the ever-changing colours of the valley. The sunrise views are worth the early alarm.

Arizona Biltmore, Phoenix, US

The Arizona Biltmore has been a who’s who of celebrities since 1929, and after its recent multi-million pound facelift, it’s more fabulous than ever. This iconic desert gem has seven pools, two golf courses and enough mid-century modern elements to satisfy any design lovers. If you fancy a bit of a spa day the Tierra Luna Spa will sort you out, or if you’re more into sipping cocktails by the pool, there’s plenty of that too. Just be sure to keep your eyes peeled – you never know who’s lounging around in these desert gardens.

Caravan by Habitas Agafay, Morocco

Caravan by Habitas Agafay sits in the Agafay Desert with the Atlas Mountains as a spectacular backdrop. The tented lodges take inspiration from Berber living but don’t panic – there’s no roughing it here. You’ve got solar-powered lighting and even WiFi so you can upload pictures of those mountain views. Two pools, a yoga pavilion and live music give you plenty to do, unless you’re into camels or horses, in which case, saddle up. And let’s not forget Olivar restaurant, where Moroccan flavours steal the show.

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi

Two Bedroom Villa at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort

Qasr Al Sarab takes the whole ‘desert oasis’ thing to another level. Surrounded by the vast, rolling dunes of the Rub Al Khali (the largest area of continuous sand in the world), this place knows how to do desert luxury. The rooms are all decked out with Middle Eastern touches, and you’ll find yourself lounging by your villa’s plunge pool or hopping on a camel for a quick desert ride. It's a bit of a trek from the airport, but the scenery alone makes it worth the journey – just don't forget your sunglasses.

Explora Atacama, Chile

Explora Atacama is for those who like their adventure served up with a side of luxury. Located in Chile’s Atacama Desert, this hotel has it all – salt flats, volcanoes and some of the clearest skies in the world. When you're not out hiking, biking or horse-riding, the hotel’s observatory offers incredible stargazing opportunities. As for the food, expect local flavours like quinoa and cactus fruit, all washed down with a glass of Chilean wine. If the desert landscape doesn’t take your breath away, the altitude might – this place sits 2,400 metres above sea level.

Amangiri, Utah, US

Amangiri is like the Hollywood A-lister of desert hotels – glamorous, dramatic, and always camera-ready. Set in a secluded valley in southern Utah, it’s all about rugged landscapes, endless canyons and that feeling of complete escape. The suites are a minimalist dream, with fireplaces and private courtyards perfect for cosy nights under the stars. For those who prefer ‘glamping’ with a luxury twist, Camp Sarika’s tented pavilions will be right up your street. And yes, the sunsets here really are as epic as everyone says.