STANDING on the edge of the Rub Al Kahli Desert is the luxurious Tilal Liwa hotel, a four-star property promising a five-star luxury offering. Around 175 km from Abu Dhabi, it is definitely not a short distance but the drive, which is a wonderful part of the experience, brings endless colour-changing sand plains and dunes and the occasional camel track. At the hotel, we were warmly greeted and, after an efficient and friendly check-in, were escorted to our room while the front-office manager also gave us a quick low-down on all the activities and attractions available in the area. The hotel boasts 111 rooms and suites, each offering stunning views of the dunes or facing the resort’s traditional gardens and pools. We checked into a pool-facing deluxe room, which also meant direct access to the large infinity pool. The highlight of the room, as it should be, was the large comfy twin beds. Glass doors opened directly into the central courtyard and pool, while the room itself was well-equipped with all the facilities, including free Wi-fi. In contrast with the desert, the resort is tastefully decorated in vibrant shades of reds, golds and greys, colours reflective of Abu Dhabi’s Western Region. The next afternoon, we went exploring the desert. Our first stop was the highly-recommended Tal Mireb or Scary Mountain, as it is fondly known. This impressive sand dune sits in the world’s second largest subtropical desert and is one of the highest in the world at 400 m with a 50-degree incline. The surrounding camel farms are home to some mighty expensive black camels, estimated to be worth up to Dh50 million ($13.6 million)! Now, I know why they have the right of way on the roads! During the season, one can catch camel races and training sessions nearby at Madinat Zayed. For those looking to explore further, there is the Liwa Oasis, the birthplace of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family and home to Bedouin society and traditional Liwa forts built in the 19th century, or the Rubh Al Khali (the Empty Quarter), one of the largest uninterrupted desert landscapes in the world, spanning more than 2,25,000 sq m (5,82,750 sq km). The hotel can also arrange for a range of activities including sand boarding, adventure cycle rides, desert safaris and horseback riding, excursions to camel farms and heritage forts can also be arranged. Returning from our adventures, we were met with a sudden burst of torrential rain, a welcome relief from the desert heat. Back at the hotel, we enjoyed a buffet dinner at the Al Badiya all-day-dining restaurant. Other food and beverage outlets include Layali, perfect for intimate drinks, and the casual pool bar, Al Liwan. Rested, recharged and on our way back to the hustle and bustle of the city, I highly recommend the Tilal Liwa for a serene and traditional Arabian getaway. I surely will be back.
