Best UAE Staycations for the National Day Long Weekend
As the UAE prepares to celebrate National Day, there’s no better opportunity to explore the best UAE staycations for the National Day long weekend. With options ranging from serene desert retreats to idyllic island getaways, this extended break invites residents and visitors alike to indulge in relaxation and adventure without the stress of airport crowds. Here are some top choices for a rejuvenating mini-escape, ensuring a memorable National Day experience.
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert
If privacy and breathtaking views are high on your list, look no further than this stunning resort. Nestled in a protected reserve, the hotel offers sand-toned villas, each featuring private pools and outdoor decks where you might spot oryx wandering by at dusk. Fill your days with falconry, horseback riding, stargazing, and cycling through the tranquil dunes. As night falls, enjoy exquisite meals at the fortress-style restaurant and unwind with a night swim under the striking desert sky.
Location: Al Mazraa Wadi Khadija – Al Ashish – Ras Al Khaimah
Contact: @ritzcarltonalwadidesert
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Liwa
This luxurious retreat stands at the cusp of the Empty Quarter, offering an experience that feels almost surreal. The drive to the resort is as enchanting as the destination itself, with towering dunes framing the approach. Guests can partake in a dawn desert walk, relax by the stunning palm-lined pool, and enjoy a sunset dune bash complete with tea served on a carpeted ridge. The accommodations are designed for comfort, making them perfect for long, leisurely mornings.
Location: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort – Bateen Liwa – Mahdar Sahab – Abu Dhabi
Contact: @anantaraqasralsarab
Al Maha, A Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Famed for its tranquility, Al Maha provides each suite with a temperature-controlled plunge pool overlooking captivating dunes, often graced by grazing gazelles. The resort offers full-board options for a seamless experience, where you can enjoy guided nature drives and archery before retreating to your terrace as sunset paints the sky in hues of apricot.
Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai – Al Ain Road
Contact: @almaha_resort
Zaya Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi
If you’re yearning for a tropical escape without the hassle of international travel, Zaya Nurai Island is your gateway to pristine beaches that mimic the Maldives. The luxury villas open directly onto soft sand or private pools, with the striking azure waters inviting you for a dip. Indulge in a leisurely lunch at the beach club, then enjoy a paddle before savoring a barefoot dinner, all while the city feels worlds away across the shimmering sea.
Location: Nurai Island – Abu Dhabi
Contact: @nurai_island
Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island
This unique destination offers the charm of a remote island combined with a wildlife wonderland. Choose from beachfront Al Yamm, the family-friendly Al Sahel nestled among acacia trees, or the main Desert Islands hotel. Thrill-seekers can embark on safari drives to witness giraffes and other Arabian wildlife. The coastline provides opportunities for snorkeling and paddling, allowing you to soak in the golden hour views that make every moment feel truly special.
Contact: @anantarasirbaniyas
How to Choose the Perfect Staycation
For those seeking total seclusion, Al Wadi Desert and Al Maha are ideal picks. If an exhilarating island experience is what you desire, Zaya and Anantara Sir Bani Yas offer the perfect backdrop for water-based fun. Wherever you decide to stay, make sure to schedule sunrise activities, bring along a light layer for the cool evenings, and remember to carve out time for sheer relaxation. This is the essence of a fantastic National Day long weekend.