This is a venue like many other in the UAE very close to my heart. I visited myself a few times as a weekend retreat to break the Springs compound routine which was always worth the money spent.

Once we visited to console my husband because we had to skip a trip to Bali due to a local volcano eruption at Bali Island and Emirates Airways cancelled the flight for security reasons, which we completely accepted.

Gateway to the sun

Bab Al Shams, which translates to “Gateway to the Sun” in Arabic, is a luxurious desert resort located in Dubai. It offers a unique blend of traditional Arabian architecture and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for those seeking a serene escape amidst the golden dunes. The resort features elegant rooms, suites, and villas, along with a variety of dining options, wellness treatments, and desert experiences like camel rides and stargazing. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure in the heart of the Arabian desert.

History of Bab Al Shams

The Bab Al Shams Resort holds a special place in Dubai’s history as its first desert resort. Nestled in the Al Marmoom Desert, it was designed to reflect the charm of a traditional Arabian fort, offering an immersive experience of Bedouin culture and hospitality. Over the years, it became a sought-after retreat for those looking to escape the bustling city life.

The Unique Oasis

In 2023, the resort underwent a significant transformation under the guidance of Kerzner International, a luxury resort developer. This renovation aimed to preserve its authentic Arabian essence while enhancing its modern amenities. The reimagined Bab Al Shams now combines historical architectural elements with contemporary luxury, making it a unique oasis in the desert.

Architecture

Bab Al Shams’ architecture is a stunning blend of traditional Arabian design and modern luxury. The resort is designed to resemble a traditional Arabic village, complete with courtyards, narrow alleyways, and shaded passages. The use of adobe-style walls, barasti canopies, and timber pergolas creates an authentic desert ambiance.

The design incorporates thick walls and small openings, which are not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhance thermal efficiency, keeping the interiors cool in the desert heat. The resort’s entrance features grand doors and a landscaped driveway with lush palms and water features, offering a warm and inviting welcome.

How to beat the heat

The design incorporates thick walls and small openings, which are not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhance thermal efficiency, keeping the interiors cool in the desert heat. The resort’s entrance features grand doors and a landscaped driveway with lush palms and water features, offering a warm and inviting welcome.

Landscape Photography Highlights

1. Golden Sand Dunes: The surrounding desert offers endless opportunities to capture the interplay of light and shadow, especially during sunrise and sunset.

2. Wildlife: The Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve nearby is home to native species like Arabian oryx and gazelles, perfect for wildlife photography.

3. Cultural Scenes: Traditional Bedouin camps and camel caravans provide a glimpse into the region’s heritage, making for evocative shots.

4. Starry Nights: The desert’s clear skies are ideal for astrophotography, with minimal light pollution.

5. Fossil Rock: A short drive away, this unique geological formation offers dramatic landscapes and striking rock textures.

6. Al Qudra Lakes: These man-made lakes attract a variety of bird species and offer serene water reflections against the desert backdrop.

Stay inspired!

Yours Sandra Sachsenhauser