Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa

Pi Sadhaka Wandering Yogini

I have always loved this desert resort and have visited many times over the years. It has always been a special place — peaceful, beautifully maintained, and a place I genuinely enjoyed returning to. Unfortunately, my visit today was deeply disappointing. The prices were increased dramatically just because of the public holiday, with no added value to justify it. For example, a simple mimosa by the pool was 155 AED (average price 70/90 aed), which felt unreasonable and like an attempt to take advantage of guests. On a positive note, the lunch buffet was excellent and worth the 200 AED. Great variety, fresh food, and very attentive staff — definitely the highlight of the day. Beyond the pricing, several details reflected a decline in the quality and care that once made this place exceptional: The towels at the pool were damaged and worn out, something I would never expect from a resort of this level. The local still water, which has always been complementary, was no longer included — another small but significant sign that guest experience is being compromised. I fully understand that prices can vary on special dates, but this level of markup, combined with a drop in service quality, left a very negative impression. Nothing about today’s visit reflected the increase in cost — no special services, no added experiences, no improvement in comfort. It truly changed the way I feel about a resort I once recommended to many friends and looked forward to visiting regularly. I sincerely hope management reconsiders this direction, especially for loyal guests who valued the authenticity, quality, and fairness that used to define this place.

WeiChin Chen

First time here, and would come back. I stayed in their new 1 bedroom desert villa and their junior suite. The Junior Suite is Abit on the smaller side but well appointed, and would highly recommend the newly built Villas. The design and Hardproduct of the villas rivals Amans and is perhaps one of my favorite villas so far. The location is excellent, as you’ll see gazelles, birds, rabbits, and oryx. I don’t think I would stay in Dubai city anymore, and hotel has become my favorite. It is about an 45-60 min away from DXB. Food is delicious, and they have a variety of restaurants (Mediterranean, Asian, Indian, and North African) and highly recommend the lamb tagine for lunch, and their North African restaurant. The Indian restaurant was okay, but preferred the North African one much more. The staff were all friendly, professional, and courteous. Almost at the level of Amans. Activities are wonderful here: dune bashing, sand boarding, camel rides, falconery, and archery to name a few. They have an excellent gym too! I would highly recommend!

Jackie Craver

I didn't have the opportunity to stay at the resort, but booked two wonderful excursions - a desert Fat Bike ride and an hour-long Camel ride. The booking process was extremely easy with very personalized service by Ms Sewwandi. The bike ride was fun and was good to do first thing in the morning before it got to hot. We took the camel ride afterwards, which was phenomenal. Mr. Nasrat was our guide and was exceptional - friendly, informative, funny, and a fantastic picture taker! This was a highlight of our entire trip to Dubai. I'd highly recommend everything about Bab Al Shams.

alessia lodigiani

Beautiful and calming hotel with stunning desert views. The food is amazing and the whole place feels truly luxurious. The staff are wonderful — especially Nisha at valet parking, who was incredibly kind and welcoming! A perfect spot for relaxation, great food, and unforgettable scenery. Highly recommended!

Ahmed Tawakol

Excellent hotel in a spectacular setting; expect to get what you paid for. Details in design and in service. Service is the best part; prompt, polite and professional. Large pool(s). Nicely served and well supervised. Kids club is an added value, well equipped and again well served. F&B are up to expectations. Tried Zala and Vivine. Breakfast is great; variety yet not overwhelming. Consistency would be more appreciated- (quality of olive oil and smoked king fish was not as the first day). Room service is excellent- suitable for an evening dinner in the terrace (especially if you have kids). We skipped the “spectacle”- but it did not escape us- music, noise and lights were quite audible and visible up till 10pm- would have loved to have a bit more quiet starry night at the terrace, but you don’t get it all. Perhaps another unit that is not so close to the spectacle grounds would have allowed for that- I will check and let you know next stay. Overall 10/10 for expectations and general category in the region- particularly service and staff and cleanliness!