9 back-to-nature experiences at Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

Feb 13, 2023

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A stay at Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa comes with many benefits. The desert resort boasts numerous Bedouin-inspired experiences and adventurous activities alongside luxurious accommodations and a back-to-nature approach. With its intimate Arabian-style architecture, these are the nine experiences you don’t want to miss, from exploring the golden sands on horseback or a regal camel to more exhilarating activities.

Archery

Adults and children can master the art of archery with the resorts’ target archery sessions. This target practice will help with hand-to-eye coordination as you delve into the world’s earliest hunting method. Step into the target range, hone your skills and perfect your aim under the expert guidance of a skilled archery instructor. Available daily at 8am, 10am, 12pm, 4pm and 6pm. AED 140 (adults), AED 90 (children) and AED 300 (two adults and one child).

Camel Riding

Nothing quite captures the essence of the UAE like a camel ride through the desert. As one of the oldest forms of transportation in the region, guided camel rides provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Bedouin way of life and get close to these magnificent creatures. The Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa is home to six friendly camels with distinct and charming personalities. Available daily at 5:45am, 8am, 10am, 3pm and 5pm. AED 250 (adults), AED 125 (children) and AED 550 (two adults and one child).

Desert Crawlers

Embark on an exciting journey through the rolling dunes inside a thrilling Polaris vehicle. An expert guide will lead you on a one-of-a-kind adventure, showing you how to manoeuvre a four-wheel dune buggy across the sands of the Arabian desert whilst visiting breathtaking and picturesque locations around the resort. Available daily at 8am, 10am, 12pm, 3pm and 5pm. AED 850 per buggy.

Desert Waves

Glide across the waves in the middle of the Arabian desert at the only resort offering water sports. Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa’s knowledgeable guide will provide the techniques and guidance you need to find your footing and ensure you have an unforgettable time mastering the art of surfing. Available daily from 11am to 2pm and 4pm to 6pm. AED 85 per person.

Desert Walks

Connect with nature and discover the secrets of the Arabian dunes whilst encountering the ﬂora and fauna surrounding the resort. Soak in the peace and calm of the desert with a scenic walk during the sunrise or stunning sunset. Discover the fascinating history of desert life from a knowledgeable guide, and complete your desert journey with a cup of traditional Arabic coffee.

Falconry

Step back in time and explore the rich history of the UAE with a falconry show. This unique opportunity offers a chance to witness one of the oldest sports in the Middle East. Families and friends are welcomed to the dunes to observe the falcon – a bird renowned for its speed and elegance – soar gracefully through the desert sky. Also featured in the show are the resort’s owl and proud hawk, making for a truly memorable spectacle. Available daily at sunrise and sunset. AED 250 (adults), AED 125 (children) and AED 550 (two adults and one child).

Horseback Riding

Elevate your stay at Al Wathba Desert Resort & Spa with a one-hour horseback riding excursion. Immerse yourself in the local landscape and learn about the cultural heritage of the UAE whilst exploring the golden dunes on the resort’s majestic Arabian horses. With 11 highly skilled ex-endurance racing horses, each riding session is personalised by trained guides to match the rider’s level of ability. AED 300 per person (60-minute session), AED 2,500 (ten sessions) or AED 3,000 a month (ten lessons and unlimited pool access).

Meet The Ponies

Young guests can join the equestrian excitement with a fun pony ride. Meet the resort’s resident pony Rocky and her daughter, Lucky, the youngest member of the stable. Lucky has become a firm favourite among resort visitors and is known for her playful and friendly personality. While she is still too young to ride on, guests can visit her at the horse stables or watch as she goes on daily walks with her mother and the guides. AED 150 (30-minute pony ride).

Sand-Wheel Adventures

Embark on a thrilling excursion over Al Wathba’s captivating desert dunes with an off-road bike tour. Soar over the sand as the wide tires of your bike glide over the rolling dunes whilst an expert guide leads the way. Along the way, guests can take in the breathtaking scenery of the unique fossil dune formations. Available daily at 7:30am and 5:30pm. AED 180 per person.