Dip, dive and plunge into these private pools across the seven emirates.
Beat the heat and retreat into a rooftop jacuzzi, private plunge pool or secluded swimming bath at one of these luxe hotels. There is really no better way to enjoy a hotel stay…
Al Habtoor Polo Resort
This Andalusian-inspired boutique urban resort in the heart of Dubailand offers an equestrian escape amidst expansive green polo lawns. Away from the championship polo and stable facilities, 25 luxurious four-bedroom Villas offer a relaxing stay with landscaped gardens, private temperature-controlled pools, al fresco dining spaces and in-built BBQ pits.
GO: Visit www.habtoorpoloresort.com for reservations and more information.
Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
Al Maha is a private, guest-only oasis nestled among the lush palm groves and sand dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. This five-star tented hotel offers guests seclusion, tranquillity and vistas of the sweeping plains and Hajar Mountain massif. Each of the 42 suites comes with a private pool to ensure a relaxing desert retreat. If you can pull yourself away from the pool, desert activities include camel trekking, horse riding and nature walks.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for reservations and more information.
Al Wathba, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa
Set within the Abu Dhabi desert lies Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa. This intimate retreat is inspired by traditional bedouin dwellings, offering 103 guest rooms and villas that feature timeless local details, traditional artwork, and Arabesque accessories. If you require a private pool, you’ll need to book one of the pool suites or The Royal Villa to relax in the waters while admiring the desert dunes.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for reservations and more information.
Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi
Overlooking Abu Dhabi’s tranquil mangrove forests, a stay at Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel is a must when visiting the capital. To guarantee a memorable stay, book the Anantara Mangroves Pool Suite, which offers 180 sqm of sheer luxury including a king-sized bed, a mini plunge pool on the terrace, and Kasara lounge privileges from the moment you check in.
GO: Email res.auh@anantara.com or call 02 895 8700 for reservations and more information.
Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort
If you’ve been daydreaming about going to the Maldives, you can get a taste of that closer to home. Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort has 174 guest rooms, suites and swoon-worthy overwater villas. Located in Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah, the new resort features a sunken bar, a large outdoor pool, and plenty of water sports to keep the family entertained. The resort is home to the first overwater villas in the emirate, offering a terrace with sweeping views of the lagoon, sea or surrounding landscapes, in addition to a private pool.
GO: Visit www.anantara.com for more information.
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort
With only 30 villas spread throughout the lush savannah on Sir Bani Yas Island off the coast of Abu Dhabi, Al Sahel invites guests to immerse themselves in the wild. Wake up to the sight of wild gazelle, embark on desert drives in the wildlife sanctuary, or simply indulge in outdoor terrace living with a dip in the villa’s very own private pool.
GO: Visit www.anantara.com for reservations and more information.
Anantara The Palm Resort Dubai
Blending Balinese inspiration with ocean vistas, the accommodation options at Anantara The Palm Resort Dubai include over-water villas or rooms with access to the resorts shimmering lagoons. However, for the ultimate Palm Jumeriah escape, book a one or two-bedroom beach pool villa where private plunge pools and direct beach access result in a waterfront win-win.
GO: Visit www.anantara.com for reservations and more information.
Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort
For a Maldives-style escape off the coast of Dubai, the first upscale resort on the World Islands archipelago offers plenty to shout about. From destination dining to barefoot luxury, the seventy guest rooms, suites and private villas unfold across 13 categories, many offering private pools surrounded by privacy panelling and comfortable day beds. If it’s an idyllic island escape you’re after – look no further.
GO: Visit www.anantara.com for reservations and more information.
Atlantis The Royal
Opening on 10 February, Atlantis The Royal includes 795 rooms, 102 suites and residences going up to five bedrooms. Each suite oozes opulence and includes expansive terraces and a dedicated butler service. Forty-four of them even feature private pools, but if that doesn’t float your boat, there are a total of 90 swimming pools across the resort.
GO: Visit www.atlantis.com for bookings and more information.
Bab Al Shams, A Rare Finds Desert Resort
Bab Al Shams has unveiled its new Desert Pool Villas which promise an immersive escape in the heart of the desert. Inspired by the simplicity and elegance of Bedouin life, the villas feature a minimalist design, expansive indoor and outdoor living areas, private pools, sun loungers, outdoor fireplaces, and spacious dining areas. With large windows framing stunning desert vistas and private courtyards, the villas ensure a seamless connection to the natural landscape.
GO: Visit https://www.babalshams.com for reservations and more information.
Bab Al Nojoum Al Hudayriat Island Villas
Known for its stunning new overwater villas, Bab Al Nojoum Al Hudayriat Island Villas is located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Abu Dhabi. Here, you can choose from two distinct villa experiences: beachfront or overwater. The 17 beachfront villas provide direct access to the pristine sands, while the 14 overwater villas evoke the feeling of a Maldivian escape. Unwind in the spacious living areas or soak up the sun on your private deck. For the adventurous, explore the island’s natural beauty with bike rentals or water sports facilities.
GO: Follow @babalnojoum_hudayriyat on Instagram for more information.
Bab Al Nojoum – Bateen Liwa Resort
Abu Dhabi’s new all-villa resort is waiting to be discovered in the heart of the Empty Quarter, close to the famous Moreeb Dune. The resort offers villas in three sizes: a 50 sqm one-bedroom villa suitable for three people, an 86 sqm two-bedroom villa that can accommodate five people, and a 102 sqm three-bedroom villa that can house a group of seven. Every accommodation category features a private plunge pool, deck loungers, a patio, and a fire pit with uninterrupted views of the sand dunes.
GO: Visit https://babalnojoum.com for reservations and more information.
Bulgari Resort Dubai
Set on a seahorse-shaped island in Jumeira Bay, Bulgari Resort Dubai brings Mediterranean style to the Middle East. Here, a luxurious aesthetic, MICHELIN dining destinations and the Bulgari Yacht Club & Marina await. For an extra touch of class, the beach view, skyline and Bulgari Villas come with a host of plush amenities and facilities including an outdoor terrace replete with a private pool.
GO: Visit www.bulgarihotels.com for reservations and more information.
FIVE Jumeriah Village
Experience penthouse living at this JVC hotel which boasts 269 swimming pools. Escape the everyday with a dare-to-be different stay revolving around good vibes and global dining, that is, if you’re willing to leave the comfort of your abode. Each of the hotel’s one, two and four-bed sky villas comes with a terrace and private pool, whilst those opting for the master suite will find a hot tub instead.
GO: Visit https://jumeirahvillage.fivehotelsandresorts.com for reservations and more information.
FIVE LUXE
Fans of FIVE will already be familiar with the brand’s Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah Village properties. FIVE LUXE takes over the beachfront at JBR, bringing 222 luxury rooms and suites and 274 residences to the Dubai shoreline. Expect a ReFIVE Spa, a social pool and a swathe of private beach, in addition to seven culinary and nightlife venues, including Paradiso, Playa Pacha, Ronin and the cabaret club, Lio Ibiza. The property’s Pool Party Rooms and Signature Suites, replete with private swimming pools, are not to be missed.
GO: Visit https://luxejbr.fivehotelsandresorts.com for reservations and more information.
FIVE Palm Jumeirah
Experience the vibe at FIVE with a stay at this notorious Palm Jumeirah address. Embody the glitz and glamour of Dubai, and upgrade your stay to one of the Beach Villas, residences or selected suites where a private pool and direct access to the private beach await.
GO: Visit https://palmjumeirah.fivehotelsandresorts.com for reservations and more information.
Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah
Hilton’s new Palm Jumeirah resort is already causing quite a stir with its selection of restaurants and bars, which include Factory by McGettigan’s, CLAW BBQ, Barfly by Buddha Bar and Trader Vic’s. Revel in luxury at this new beachfront address by booking one of the two Presidential Suites, which clock in at a whopping 220 sqm and boast an outdoor bar and sun deck with a private whirlpool and luxury cabanas.
GO: Visit www.hilton.com for reservations and more information.
InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa
Although the name may be a bit of a mouthful, InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa sits at a juncture of desert, mountains, and the Arabian Gulf’s azure waters in the upmarket enclave of Mina Al Arab. It boasts spacious accommodations dotted along an enviable swathe of private beachfront, where 150 sqm Beachfront Pool Villas artfully combine the essence of Arabian aesthetics with stylishly modern interiors and state-of-the-art technology. The private terraces overlooking the ocean come with day beds and a private pool.
GO: Visit www.icrasalkhaimah.com for reservations and more information.
Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf
Experience exquisite Arabian-inspired summerhouses at this boutique villa resort overlooking the waterways of Madinat Jumeirah. Retreat into a luxurious sanctuary where the Malakiya two and three-bedroom villas feature a private plunge pool and gazebo, in addition to complimentary Wild Wadi Waterpark entry and access to Jumeirah’s two-kilometre stretch of private beach.
GO Visit www.jumeirah.com for reservations and more information.
Kempinski Hotel and Residences Palm Jumeirah
Known for offering European luxury in lavish locales, Kempinski Hotel and Residences Palm Jumeirah offers several accommodations with private pools on the west crescent of the Palm. The hotel’s royal five-bedroom palace offers an opulent escape amidst plush furnishings and features a private area within palm gardens, a private rooftop pool and a Jacuzzi.
GO: Visit www.kempinski.com for reservations and more information.
Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection
Escape to Polynesia without having to leave Dubai at this family-friendly resort that forms part of the Dubai Parks & Resorts complex. Spend the day at Legoland or Motiongate Dubai before retreating to a tropical paradise where palm trees surround swimming pools and a lazy river. The resort’s three-bedroom villa is ideal for eight guests and is the only accommodation within the resort with a private pool.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for reservations and more information.
Meliá Desert Palm Dubai
Discover the warmth of Spanish hospitality and let Meliá Desert Palm whisk you away on an equestrian escape amidst Dubai’s polo fields. The one and two-bedroom pool villas feature a garden, private temperature-controlled pool and al fresco dining area within a stone-walled courtyard for ultimate privacy. Spacious modern living rooms with a kitchenette, two superlatively designed bathrooms (with indoor and outdoor rain showers), a study and Emperor beds ensure a luxurious stay.
GO: Email info.dp@melia.com or call 04 323 8888 for bookings and more information.
Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island
Situated on the sandy shoreline of the hook-shaped Marjan Island, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island is a family-friendly resort with big ambitions. In addition to three swimming pools and six restaurants, the beachfront property offers several Beachfront Suites for those looking to splurge. Offering a taste of the Maldives, albeit a little closer to home, these privatised villas feature private swimming pools, Insta-worthy terraces and lush landscaping that leads directly to the beach.
GO: Visit www.movenpick.com for reservations and more information.
Mysk Al Badayer Retreat
Sharjah’s Mysk Al Badayer Retreat is a traditional Arabian castle decorated with a touch of modernity. Ten tented villas adorned with Arabian ornaments feature private swimming pools overlooking Sharjah’s desert sands. Anchored around Emirati hospitality, this picturesque desert stop will leave you with 1001 Arabian memories.
GO: Visit myskhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Mysk Kingfisher Retreat
A nature retreat offering a gateway into the world of conservation, Mysk Kingfisher Retreat is the perfect place to embrace a slower pace of life. Set on the east coast of Sharjah, the beauty of the pristine beach is matched perfectly by refined interiors of soft beiges, blues and desert browns that dress the resort. Arrive on a private boat that will take you to your private island with a modern tent and its own private pool designed to provide comfort, privacy and amazing views of the Indian Ocean.
GO: Visit myskhotels.com for reservations and more information.
Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
When it comes to barefoot luxury, look no further than Pearl Jumeriah’s Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai. This beachfront resort features spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline, with some accommodations benefitting from private pools and decks. Located on a private beach just a few steps away from the Arabian Gulf, the one, two and three-bedroom beach villas each feature separate living areas and a temperature-controlled private pool.
GO: Visit https://dubai.nikkibeach.com for reservations and more information.
Nurai Island
A short boat ride from Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island lies the island enclave known as Nurai. Offering arguably one of the most exclusive hotel stays in the emirates, this private island is home to beach villas, beach houses, estate villas and sea view houses, each with a private pool. The island paradise also features a world-class oceanside spa, five restaurants and a beach club.
GO: Visit www.nuraiisland.com for reservations and more information.
One&Only The Palm
Regarded as Palm Jumeirah’s most exclusive resort, One&Only The Palm sits at the far end of the artificial islands West Crescent. Accessible via road or boat, this beachfront resort offers an intimate retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city. To ensure your stay is ultra-luxe, book the two-bedroom beachfront villa or Palm Beach executive suite and make a splash in your own private pool.
GO: Visit www.oneandonlyresorts.com/the-palm for reservations and more information.
Palazzo Versace Dubai
Drawing inspiration from a 16th-century Italian palace, you’ll feel like fashion royalty when visiting Palazzo Versace Dubai. Admire the high ceilings, landscaped gardens and Italian furnishings, and then make the most of its first-class, fashionable facilities. Treat yourself to the ultimate luxury and embrace the Versace lifestyle with a private pool, available in the three-bedroom Royal Versace Villa or the Imperial Suite.
GO: Visit www.palazzoversace.ae for reservations and more information.
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas
Nestled on the enchanting Saadiyat Island, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas offers tranquillity and a deep connection with nature. Whether guests want to meditate at a quiet cove in the garden or enjoy a peaceful walk on the nine-kilometre stretch of natural beach, the resort provides the perfect getaway from city life. The stylishly appointed Executive and Royal Villas are equipped with the finest amenities, including personal butler service and a large terrace with a private plunge pool as well as sunbeds with magnificent views of the beach.
GO: Email reservations.abuph@hyatt.com or call 02 407 1234 for more information.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Located on the outskirts of Abu Dhabi and deep within the world’s largest sand desert, the Empty Quarter, Qasr Al Sarab rises from flame-coloured dunes like a mirage, inviting adventure and a sense of true luxury. Traverse the desert on camelback, dine under desert skies or unwind with hammam and desert rose rituals at this relaxing Abu Dhabi resort. With 140 rooms, 14 suites and 52 pool villas, guests are invited to admire endless dunes from their private oasis, with lush garden terraces and private plunge pools.
GO: Visit www.anantara.com for reservations and more information.
Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island
Abu Dhabi’s only all-inclusive all-exclusive resort provides residents and visitors with the ultimate waterfront escape on Saadiyat Island. Decked out in deep blues and subtle sandy tones to match the desert island locale, many rooms and suites have access to shared private pools, allowing guests to jump straight out of bed and directly into the calm waters. A stay at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island also offers a selection of five fine-dining restaurants and bars, plus the use of the pristine white beach, a small waterpark and a wave pool.
GO: Visit www.rixos.com for reservations and more information.
Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites
Known for its ultra-all-inclusive packages on Palm Jumeirah’s East Crescent, bookings for Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites’ four and five-bedroom suites come with the advantage of a private pool. Other features include a terrace BBQ area.
GO: Visit www.rixos.com for reservations and more information.
Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas
Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas offers a curated island escape for those searching for the ultimate getaway. The five-star hotel boasts an enviable location upon a nine-kilometre stretch of pristine beachfront. It is also one of the most family-friendly resorts in the capital, offering little explorers access to the Aladdin’s Cave kids club, an expansive swimming pool and a lazy river. For an extra touch of class, the one and two-bedroom villas are located directly on the beach. Expect a large private plunge pool and a fully furnished terrace facing the sea.
GO: Visit www.rotanatimes.com for reservations and more information.
Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
This five-star property overlooking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque boasts enchanting architecture, sophisticated décor and palatial surroundings that provide every guest with a sense of luxury living. The Family and Samar Celebration Villas are designed in either Arabic, Asian or contemporary style and feature furnished terraces and sundecks that lead to a private infinity pool. Villa guests also make use of a separate entrance, private parking and discreet butler service.
GO: Visit www.shangri-la.com for reservations and more information.
Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort
Ras Al Khaimah is the ultimate getaway destination for UAE residents and travellers visiting the UAE, thanks to its isolated beaches and mountainous topography. Nestled within Al Hamra Village, Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort has 292 rooms, including 47 suites. The Signature One Bedroom Suite, Imperial One Bedroom Suite, and Beachfront Two Bedroom Suite offer Arabic touches, French elegance and a private plunge pool overlooking the waters of the Arabian Gulf.
GO: Visit https://sofitel.accor.com for more information.
Sofitel Dubai The Palm
With French Polynesian or French provençal décor, Sofitel Dubai The Palm’s Lodge Villas and Beach Villas boast a private pool and Jacuzzi surrounded by a shaded sundeck. With the soft white sands and shimmering waters of the resort’s beach at your doorstep, you can expect unforgettable panoramas whilst you sit back, relax and enjoy an island escape.
GO: Visit www.sofitel-dubai-thepalm.com for reservations and more information.
Telal Resort Al Ain
This five-star desert resort is set amidst an Arabian oasis on the outskirts of Al Ain. Once home to the nomadic Bedouin tribes of the Emirates, Telal Resort Al Ain spans 80 square kilometres of natural conservation area and recreates the traditional Emirati experience with a desertology spa and traditional souk. The resort features seven heritage rooms and three heritage suites, but it’s the 14 tented-style private villas you will need to book if you’re after a private swimming pool.
GO: Visit www.telalresort.ae for reservations and more information.
Terra Solis Dubai
Terra Solis has been created by the same team behind the Belgian music festival, Tomorrowland, and is spread over 371,000 square meters in Al Yufra, Dubailand. Inspired by the land ‘terra’ and the stars ‘solis’, Terra Solis Dubai encompasses three types of accommodation but if you want to feel like a VIP, then book yourself into one of the six Orion pool lodges. The accommodations may be rustic, but the terrace is oh-so-Instagrammable, complete with sofas and a pretty private plunge pool that allows you to enjoy the thumping DJ beats and party vibe of the adjacent resort pool with a little bit of privacy.
GO: Visit https://terrasolisdubai.com for bookings and information.
The Cove Rotana Resort
This five-star retreat nestled in a tranquil inlet blends destination dining with leisure facilities and Arabian charm. With Nubian design influences, well-thought-out living spaces and modern amenities, you will feel at home at this beachfront resort in Ras Al Khaimah, where a selection of one, two and three-bedroom villas boast private pools and waterfront vistas. The resort is also home to an impressive communal infinity pool for those not wanting to splurge on a villa.
GO: Visit www.rotana.com for reservations and more information.
The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah
Framed by one million square metres of protected mangroves, with pristine white sand beaches and lagoons, The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah has been thoughtfully designed as a retreat where you can switch off and take time out. The resort offers sophisticated contemporary architecture, wide open spaces and a natural palette that harmonises with panoramic ocean vistas. Premium one, two and three bedroom villas with panelled glass walls come with private pools and private gardens.
GO: Visit www.oberoihotels.com for reservations and more information.
The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
Only the Ramdan Villa and Two Bedroom Villa come with private plunge pools at this Venetian-inspired resort in the capital. These villas are ideal for larger groups and offer complete privacy a short walk from the resort’s private beach. For those not staying in the villas, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal’s central pool, is actually the largest swimming pool in the capital.
GO: Visit www.ritzcarlton.com for reservations and more information.
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach
Enjoy the ultimate island-inspired staycation at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach. Edging the azure water and pristine white-sand beach of the Arabian Gulf, the resort offers seclusion and luxury in equal measure. Each of the 32 luxury beachfront villas features a private pool whilst blending privacy and contemporary comforts in spaces inspired by the natural beauty of Ras Al Khaimah.
GO: Visit www.ritzcarlton.com for reservations and more information.
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert
Experience the UAE’s picturesque desert scenery and rich culture at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert, with a unique staycation experience nestled amidst 1,235 acres of protected sands in Wadi Khadija. Inspired by traditional Bedouin tents, 100 private tented villas evoke the feeling of adventure, as found in the tales of 1001 Arabian Nights. Each villa’s private deck boasts a temperature-controlled private swimming pool and sun loungers. Just don’t be surprised if an Arabian oryx or camel joins you poolside.
GO: Visit www.ritzcarlton.com or call 07 206 7777 for reservations and more information.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort
Book a staycation at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort and step into the lap of luxury with the Majestic Suite. With a large living area, dining facilities, two bedrooms, and an expansive ocean-view terrace that comes with a private pool, you’re in for a truly royal escape. The room features Calacatta marble floors with hints of cream, cool brown, and sand in its decor. The elegance is amplified by pops of coral, turquoise, and red. Floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the suite in natural light to set the tone for a relaxing staycation that you must absolutely experience.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for reservations and more information.
