Al Maha Desert Resort

We were lucky to get a chance to stay at the luxury Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa in the United Arab Emirate. It's ludicrously expensive, roughly $1000 USD per night which put us off considering it on previous occasions, but Gill got a promotional offer through work during the scorching part of the year and treated me to a lavish birthday present.

Al Maha is a one hour drive south east of Dubai on the Al Ain road. You park your car at the service gate and then a Toyota Landcruiser whisks you into the protected Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve in which Al Maha is situated.

The resort strives for perfection in everything offered. Service is second to none and no request is too much for them. For instance, Gill had a look at the menu, didn't see what she wanted so asked if they could whip up a filet steak instead ... "Of course Madam, how would you like that cooked?".

The Bedouin Suites are pure luxury and you get your own private pool overlooking the empty desert, grazing Oryx, and camel trains that arrive to take you on your sundowner - champagne and strawberries on the side of a dune watching the sun set.

If your wallet can stretch to a night here, then we would definitely recommend it ... it's a life altering experience as far as hotel stays go.