There’s nothing quite like a cosy getaway to unwind, especially when the weather calls for quiet escapes and peaceful retreats. The UAE offers plenty of options for those looking to relax and recharge, from hidden desert camps to serene beachside resorts. Whether it’s curling up by a private pool or enjoying nature in a secluded retreat, staycations are the perfect way to enjoy the cooler season.
This guide takes you through some of the best cosy staycation spots in the UAE. With options ranging from eco-friendly hideaways to luxurious island resorts, there’s something for everyone seeking a comfortable break close to home.
The Nest by Sonara, Dubai
Hidden amidst the tranquil dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, The Nest by Sonara offers an intimate and eco-friendly desert escape. This unique staycation spot combines luxury with minimal environmental impact, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the city. Each "nest" is thoughtfully designed, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings while providing all the comforts of modern living.
You can enjoy gourmet dining under the stars, with dishes inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours. The experience is enhanced by the serene ambience of the desert, complete with a crackling bonfire and live entertainment. For those who want a little adventure, The Nest offers activities such as camel riding, sandboarding, and guided nature walks, giving you a chance to fully immerse yourself in the desert landscape.
Details:
- Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai, UAE
- Contact: +971 50 336 0397
- Rates: Overnight stays start from AED 1,960 per nest, accommodating up to 4 guests. Rates include dinner, breakfast, and selected activities.
- Best For: Couples, families, and small groups looking for an exclusive desert experience.
Kingfisher Retreat by Sharjah Collection, Kalba
In the serene town of Kalba, the Kingfisher Retreat by Sharjah Collection offers a coastal glamping experience like no other. This tranquil hideaway is surrounded by mangroves and overlooks the Gulf of Oman, making it a perfect retreat for those who want to be close to nature while enjoying luxury and comfort.
Each tented villa at Kingfisher Retreat comes with its own private plunge pool and outdoor deck, offering breathtaking views of the sea. The interiors are elegantly designed, combining rustic charm with modern amenities. You can wake up to the sounds of waves and enjoy the peaceful ambience of the mangroves, where various species of birds can be spotted.
Beyond relaxation, the retreat offers plenty of activities. You can explore the mangroves on guided kayaking tours, embark on nature walks, or take a leisurely bike ride along the coast. The retreat also focuses on sustainability, using eco-friendly practices to ensure minimal impact on the surrounding environment.
Dining at Kingfisher Retreat is another highlight. The in-house restaurant serves a range of freshly prepared dishes, with an emphasis on local and organic ingredients. Meals can be enjoyed indoors or on the outdoor terrace, with the calming sea breeze enhancing the experience.
Details:
- Location: Kalba, Sharjah, UAE
- Contact: +971 9 201 1903
- Rates: Tented villas start from AED 1,500 per night, including breakfast. Rates may vary depending on the season and availability.
- Best For: Nature lovers, couples, and families seeking a serene coastal getaway with a touch of adventure.
Anantara World Islands Resort, Dubai
Situated just a short boat ride from Dubai’s bustling city centre, Anantara World Islands Resort offers a secluded island retreat that feels worlds away. Located on the South American island within The World Islands development, this luxurious resort invites you to experience a tropical escape without leaving the UAE. The island’s pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush greenery create an idyllic setting for a cosy winter getaway.
The resort features a range of beautifully designed accommodations, including beach pool villas and overwater villas. Each villa offers direct beach access or private infinity pools, ensuring complete privacy and comfort. The interiors reflect Anantara’s signature blend of elegance and local charm, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf.
You can indulge in world-class dining at the resort’s beachfront restaurants, serving everything from Mediterranean cuisine to traditional Middle Eastern delicacies. For a more intimate experience, private dining setups can be arranged on the beach, offering a romantic setting under the stars.
Activities at Anantara World Islands Resort include snorkelling, paddleboarding, and beach yoga, making it ideal for both relaxation and adventure. The resort also offers a wellness centre with rejuvenating treatments, ensuring that you leave feeling refreshed and recharged.
Details:
- Location: South America Island, The World Islands, Dubai, UAE
- Contact: +971 4 567 8777
- Rates: Villas start from AED 2,000 per night, including breakfast. Rates vary depending on the type of villa and season.
- Best For: Couples, families, and those seeking an exclusive island escape close to the city.
The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah, Ajman
Nestled within a lush coastal setting and surrounded by protected mangroves, The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah offers an exclusive beachfront escape in Ajman. This resort is renowned for its serene atmosphere, elegant architecture, and world-class service, making it an ideal destination for a cosy winter retreat. Its expansive private beach and tranquil surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for unwinding during the cooler months.
The resort features contemporary rooms, suites, and private villas, each designed with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow natural light to flood in while offering spectacular views of the sea or mangroves. The private villas come with their pools, making them a top choice for those seeking privacy and luxury.
You can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including kayaking through the mangroves, paddleboarding, and cycling along scenic trails. For those looking to relax, the resort’s wellness centre offers holistic spa treatments and yoga sessions. Dining at The Oberoi Beach Resort is a gourmet experience, with multiple restaurants serving international cuisine, fresh seafood, and Middle Eastern specialities. The resort also offers beachfront dining for a more intimate, scenic meal.
Details:
- Location: Al Zorah, Ajman, UAE
- Contact: +971 6 504 4888
- Rates: Rooms start from AED 1,700 per night. Private villas with pools are available at higher rates. Rates include breakfast and access to resort facilities.
- Best For: Couples, families, and those seeking a quiet, luxurious beachfront getaway.
Anantara Mina Al Arab Resort, Ras Al Khaimah
Set amidst a stunning natural landscape of mangroves and lagoons, Anantara Mina Al Arab Resort in Ras Al Khaimah offers an eco-luxury escape with breathtaking views and unmatched tranquillity. Perfect for a winter staycation, this resort combines sustainability with high-end comfort, offering you a chance to relax in harmony with nature.
The resort features a selection of luxurious rooms, overwater villas, and beach villas, each designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. The overwater villas, in particular, provide a unique experience with their private pools and direct access to the lagoon. Interiors are elegantly furnished with a focus on natural materials and modern amenities, ensuring a cosy yet sophisticated ambience.
Anantara Mina Al Arab offers a range of activities, including kayaking through the mangroves, paddleboarding, and guided nature walks. For those who prefer relaxation, the resort’s award-winning spa provides wellness treatments inspired by Arabian and Asian traditions. Dining is another highlight, with several restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, from fresh seafood to authentic Middle Eastern dishes.
Details:
- Location: Mina Al Arab, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
- Contact: +971 7 204 2222
- Rates: Starting from AED 1,800 per night for rooms, with overwater villas priced higher. Rates include breakfast and selected resort activities.
- Best For: Couples, families, and nature lovers seek a luxurious, eco-friendly retreat.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi
Deep within the vast dunes of the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter), Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is a luxurious desert retreat that offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Surrounded by golden sands as far as the eye can see, the resort combines traditional Arabian architecture with world-class comfort, making it an ideal winter staycation destination for those seeking serenity and elegance.
The resort’s rooms, suites, and private villas are designed to reflect Arabian heritage, featuring intricate details, plush furnishings, and expansive terraces with views of the sweeping desert. For a more exclusive experience, the villas come with private plunge pools, ideal for a cosy and luxurious retreat.
You can enjoy a range of activities, from camel trekking and dune bashing to guided desert walks and falconry displays. The resort also offers unique experiences such as sunrise and sunset desert drives, which allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. After a day of adventure, the Anantara Spa provides a perfect sanctuary to unwind with its signature wellness treatments inspired by ancient Arabian rituals.
Dining at Qasr Al Sarab is an experience in itself. The resort offers several dining options, including Al Waha, which serves a variety of Middle Eastern and international dishes, and Suhail, a rooftop grill restaurant offering premium cuts of meat and seafood under the starlit desert sky.
Details:
- Location: Rub' al Khali Desert, Liwa, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Contact: +971 2 886 2088
- Rates: Rooms start from AED 2,500 per night, with private villas priced higher. Rates include breakfast and access to resort facilities.
- Best For: Couples, families, and luxury travellers seeking a unique desert escape.
From stargazing in the desert to waking up to the sound of the waves, these lesser-known gems offer something special for everyone. With world-class amenities, breathtaking landscapes, and various activities, these spots make unwinding easy without venturing too far from home.
So, as the cooler months settle in, why not plan a staycation that promises comfort, adventure, and lasting memories? Explore these retreats and experience the UAE in a whole new light.
Also Read:
Shahba Mayyeri
Ummulkiram Pardawala
Umema Arsiwala
Ummulkiram Pardawala
Umema Arsiwala
