Bab Al Shams, A Rare Finds Desert Resort, Dubai

Character and identity

Set on the edge of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, about an hour from central Dubai, Bab Al Shams is a fortified-village fantasy of crenelated walls, palm-shaded courtyards, and falaj-inspired water channels, now reborn after a full renovation as the debut property in Kerzner's Rare Finds portfolio. The 115 rooms and suites sit in adobe blocks around three desert-facing infinity pools. Dining spans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern at Zala, a rooftop modern Asian newcomer, Anwā, and the spectacle of Al Hadheerah, a long-running dinner show with horses, dabke, Sufi spinners and groaning mezze tables. Service runs warm, attentive, and visibly proud.

Who's it for

Bottom line

The defining experience here is Al Hadheerah, a dinner extravaganza that somehow earns its theatre, paired with a thoughtful refresh that has stripped out the old Arabian Nights kitsch. Spend the money if you want desert atmosphere with a family-friendly programme; book a Deluxe Suite for the soaking tub, or hold out for the Desert Chalets and Desert Spa opening later this year.