Celebrate unforgettable festive charm at Anantara Qasr Al Sarab desert resort

Rising out of the flame-coloured dunes of the vast Empty Quarter, Anantara Qasr Al Sarab sets the stage for the ultimate festive desert escape amidst Arabian tranquillity and hospitality.

The joyous spirit of the festive and New Year season will come alive at the sprawling palace with celebratory feasts, New Year soirees and rejuvenating spa treatments.

Christmas Eve Feasts to Remember

Situated in the resort’s main courtyard, Al Waha Restaurant offers guests an indulgent festive feast featuring an array of culinary treasures, all carefully crafted to evoke the spirit of the season. A blend of traditional and modern flavours comes together in a lavish spread, offering a dining experience that is as rich as it is festive. This culinary journey promises an evening filled with holiday cheer from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm, at AED 450 per person, or AED 225 for children aged 6 to 12.

For a more intimate and elevated setting, Suhail, the resort’s refined rooftop steakhouse offers an exquisite set menu, with the terrace offering sweeping views of the vast golden dunes. Bathed in the glow of starlight, Suhail promises an elevated dining experience where the desert sky meets the festive charm of the season. Starting from 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm, and priced at AED 650 per person including food and soft beverages; with an additional charge of AED 290 per person for wine pairing.

Alternatively, those seeking authentic experiences can enjoy Middle Eastern flavours by the dunes at Al Falaj, a once-in-a-lifetime Bedouin style dining experience, providing a truly magical setting, where guests can enjoy a carefully curated feast under the stars, surrounded by the serene beauty of the desert. Priced at AED 550 per person including food and soft beverages, and AED 275 for children, the rolling dunes, coupled with an authentic Arabian atmosphere, make this a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate Christmas Eve.

Christmas Day: A Family Affair

Christmas Day at Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort unites families in a celebration of unforgettable memories. The arrival of Santa Claus on 25 December from 8:00 am – 11:00 am heralds a day filled with joy and enchantment. Families are warmly invited to partake in a heartwarming celebration, while children delight in a variety of festive-themed activities. This cherished tradition is brought to life against the backdrop of the desert, creating cherished memories in a bucket-list destination.

New Year’s Eve: A Spectacular Send-off to 2024

Kick off the New Year with a joyful gathering at the resort’s Al Falaj, where a Bedouin-inspired atmosphere brings the spirit of the desert to life. From 8:00 pm to 11:30 pm, guests are invited to savour an extensive spread of middle eastern dishes, creating a culinary journey set against the flickering lights of a bonfire and surrounded by the dunes. This extravaganza features three exclusive packages, starting at AED 1,450 per person for food and soft beverages, AED 1,850 with premium alcoholic beverages, or AED 2,025 including French bubbly. For children aged 6 to 12, the dinner is priced at AED 700.

As midnight approaches, the festivities continue around the bonfire, where a live DJ and a stunning display of fireworks illuminate the desert sky, welcoming the new year in a spectacle of light and celebration.

Those seeking a personalised and intimate celebration will delight in the resort’s Designer Dining by Anantara, which offers bespoke dining experiences amidst the resort’s unique locations, whether it’s in the privacy of a sprawling villa or tucked away in the desert. Guests can choose from a selection of three tailored menus designed to complement the natural beauty of the desert for an unmatched gastronomy experience. Advance reservations are required for this experience.

Desert Adventures and Wellness at Anantara Spa

Elevate your festive desert escape with authentic desert excursions and restoring spa treatments that combine Middle Eastern remedies with Thai expertise, guaranteeing a feel-good New Year.

Should staying active be on the agenda for the New Year, families and teens can make the most of the resort’s impressive padel and tennis courts, hit the 24-hour gym, or book a mindful yoga session, led by international yogis. For those seeking culture-enriching experiences, discover the beauty of Ezba, the resort’s cultural farmhouse and educational centre, where guests can learn about ancient Bedouin traditions and discover the richness of the Emirati heritage. Incredible wildlife, including saluki dogs, majestic falcons, sand gazelles, and Arabian horses await.

Cultural immersion continues at Camp Nujum, a one-of-a-kind luxurious glamping experience under the stars inspired by the Emirate’s rich culture amidst the serene desert, with enthralling day activities such as camel rides, dune bashing, desert drives and walks.

Embrace the gifts of the Anantara Spa with healing remedies to pamper your mind, body and soul. Indulge in an authentic Moroccan hammam journey, beat the heat with an invigorating ice bath or opt for a complete wellness experience with a dedicated one- or three-day programme.

Let the desert’s timeless beauty inspire every moment this festive season at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Celebrate with loved ones, create new traditions, and step into the New Year surrounded by unparalleled luxury and serenity.

Rates are subject to applicable service charges, local fees and taxes.

For bookings, please visit https://www.anantara.com/en/qasr-al-sarab-abu-dhabi/festive or contact Anantara’s Central Reservations Office at +971 (0) 2 895 8700.

Image Credit: Anantara Qasr Al Sarab desert resort