Dunes by Al Nahda, Nr Barka

The Dunes is an exceptional choice for a desert camp experience without too much overland travel. It’s  a particularly good option if you have a short stopover in the country and want to get a flavour of life in the desert.

Luxurious tented accommodation at The Dunes sits on a vast desert plain just one hour from Muscat. Combining luxury with Bedouin style, this is the only five star desert property in the country. There is nothing but rolling dunes as far as the eye can see - a truly breathtaking landscape - and the atmosphere is incredibly peaceful. 

Travelling out to this hotel is an experience in itself as you journey over the sand in a 4x4. Facilities are top notch, with a lovely infinity pool to cool off in, small gym, al fresco restaurant and bar. The Fleur restaurant provides all-day dining serving up delicious food with incredible views of the dunes. Barbeque nights are also sometimes held on the sand. The bar is a particularly splendid spot to enjoy a drink as the sun sets. 

While you could easily while away your time enjoying the onsite facilities, there are plenty of exciting activities and excursions on offer. Hit the dunes on a quad bike, go sand surfing, ride a camel, play a round of golf or take part in a traditional cooking class. You can even head out on heritage tours and pay a visit to a camel farm to get a further insight into local Omani life. When you return from a day’s activities, head to the spa and indulge in some unique treatments such as an ancient Egyptian sand spa. 

50 free-standing tents are spread out across the dunes with three categories: luxury, suites and royal tents. With plenty of Bedouin charm, the interiors are opulent yet comfortable. Adorned with traditional Omani fabrics, lanterns and teak furniture, you won’t even feel as though you’re staying in a tent! They’re all fit with en-suite bathrooms with sunken bathtubs and rain showers, TVs and air conditioning. Luxury tents are the lead-in category, though suites are double the size, which are better for families. 

With 24 hour check-in available, you can rest in your tent if you arrive early, or make the most of the facilities all day before a late departure. For a truly unique and luxurious experience, The Dunes comes highly recommended.