Aldhafra Resort, Vignette Collection by IHG: Discover a family-friendly haven in the Liwa Desert, Abu Dhabi

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If you’ve ever fancied swapping city noise for wide-open desert skies – without getting on a plane – Aldhafra Resort, Vignette Collection by IHG might just be your next favourite staycation. Set deep in the Liwa Desert, this family-friendly resort feels worlds away from everyday life in Abu Dhabi, yet it’s still an easy road trip when you’re craving a proper reset.

Desert arrival: the journey is part of the experience

The drive itself is half the magic. As the skyline fades and the dunes start to roll in, life naturally slows down. By the time you reach the resort, you’re already in desert mode. There’s something quietly cinematic about seeing the buildings rise from the sand, blending into the landscape rather than competing with it.

It’s the kind of arrival that instantly makes you exhale – and that’s before you’ve even checked in.

Rooted in place, not just another resort

Aldhafra Resort is the world’s first desert property under IHG’s Vignette Collection, and it leans into its setting beautifully. Think earthy tones, low-rise buildings and textures inspired by traditional desert settlements. It doesn’t feel like a copy-and-paste luxury resort dropped into the dunes – it feels designed for this exact stretch of desert.

If you’re the sort of traveller who likes places with a sense of story and location, this one lands well.

A slower pace from the moment you arrive

Check-in is refreshingly unhurried, with a majlis-style welcome, Arabic coffee and dates. It’s a small detail, but it sets the tone: this is a stay where time stretches a little. Even families arrive feeling calmer than they left Abu Dhabi.

Food & drink with desert views

Dining here is relaxed and unfussy, with a mix of Arabic and international dishes across the main restaurant, plus a dedicated Arabic dining experience for those wanting something more rooted in local flavours.

As the sun dips, evenings tend to gravitate outdoors. A drink under the stars hits differently when there’s nothing but dunes on the horizon and the desert breeze rolling through. It’s low-key, atmospheric, and very easy to linger longer than planned.

Desert adventures (or just desert lounging)

This is where Aldhafra really comes into its own. You can be as active – or as horizontal – as you like. Options range from camel trekking, falcon encounters and archery to stargazing sessions and cultural workshops like pottery and sand art.

If you’re visiting with friends or as a couple, private dining in the desert is a standout – candlelit tables under the stars feel straight out of a film scene. If you’ve got kids in tow, the desert becomes a giant outdoor playground with experiences that are actually educational without feeling like homework.

A kids’ club that doesn’t feel like an afterthought

For families, the desert-themed Kids’ Club is a genuine win. Activities are hands-on and tied to the environment, so little ones aren’t just being “kept busy” – they’re learning about where they are. It makes Aldhafra feel like a proper family staycation option, not just a resort that tolerates children.

Offers worth knowing about

Ramadan in the desert

During Ramadan, the resort leans into quieter evenings with Iftar and Suhoor served against the desert backdrop. It’s less buzzy brunch, more reflective, sit-and-stay-a-while energy. If you like your Ramadan experiences calm, scenic and a little removed from the city, this setting hits the mark.

Ramadan Escape

Available for stays from 19 February to 18 March 2026 (book by 17 March 2026).Includes:

• Daily Iftar and Suhoor

• Two complimentary desert activities

• Full access to resort facilities

A lovely option if you want to experience Ramadan somewhere genuinely peaceful.

UAE & GCC Residents Offer

A solid staycation deal for local residents:

• 30% off room rates

• Complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability)

• AED 150 dining credit

• Two complimentary desert activities

• Full access to resort facilities

Ideal for families looking to escape the city without a long holiday commitment.

International Guests: One complimentary night

Stay three nights, pay for two.Valid for stays from 22 January to 30 June 2026 (book by 30 June 2026). Includes two complimentary desert experiences – perfect if you’re turning your Abu Dhabi trip into a desert chapter.

For bookings and offers:

Call: +971 2 656 2512 | +971 2 894 6111

WhatsApp: +971 56 219 0926

Email: reservations@aldhafraresort.com