Wednesday 22 / January / 2025
MUSCAT: The dunes seemed endless, stretching to the horizon like golden waves frozen in motion. As the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows across the sand, my anticipation for what lay ahead grew.
I was en route to Desert Nights Resort, a luxury hideaway in Rimal Al Sharqiyah, better known as Wahiba Sands. This wasn’t just a stay - it was a journey into the heart of Oman’s desert, where luxury and tradition meet under star-filled skies.
The journey to Desert Nights Resort is an adventure in itself. Located approximately two hours from Muscat, the drive takes you through Oman’s rugged terrain before the golden dunes of Rimal Al Sharqiyah come into view.
A warm welcome
The first thing I noticed upon arriving at the resort was the quiet - deep, almost reverent silence broken only by the occasional whisper of wind through the sands. Greeted with a cool refreshing towel followed by warm Omani coffee and dates, I was ushered to my deluxe two-bedroom villa in the shape of a tent, though ‘tent’ hardly does justice to what awaited me.
The resort offers a total of 88 accommodations: 55 luxurious Bedouin-style tents and 33 deluxe rooms. The spread-out accommodation includes 6 one-bedroom pool villas and 10 premium villas.
The tents are spacious and air-conditioned, feature king-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms, and private sit-out areas where guests can soak in panoramic views of the dunes.
The accommodations were Bedouin-style on the outside, blending seamlessly into the desert landscape. Inside, they were an oasis of luxury. Plush bedding, handcrafted furniture, and traditional Omani decor created a space that was both comforting and authentic.
The bathroom alone felt like a sanctuary, with a rainfall shower and premium amenities - a stark but welcome contrast to the starkness of the desert outside.
Dune bashing and sunsets
As I had arrived just in time for the much talked about sunset, the hotel offered a complimentary drive up the dunes for a visual treat.
We paused atop a particularly high dune just as the sun began to set. The guide, a cheerful local with an encyclopedic knowledge of the area, gestured for us to sit.
Watching the sun sink into the sands, painting the landscape in hues of amber and crimson, was an almost spiritual experience. Adding to the enjoyment was the offerings of complimentary tea/coffee and cold drinks along with dates and other savories.
Back at the resort, I dined under the stars at the Dunes restaurant. The menu offered an array of Omani and international dishes. Every bite was a celebration of flavour, enhanced by the cool desert breeze and the softly glowing lanterns around me that blended perfectly with the soft notes of local singers and lute musicians, enhancing the evening.
The next morning, after a hearty breakfast to start the day that was both diverse and memorable with guests able to also enjoy live cooking stations.
I then took a complimentary camel ride where the guide shared stories of Bedouin traditions, from their survival skills in this unforgiving landscape to their deep connection with camels.
Eager to dive into the desert experience, I signed up for a dune-bashing excursion.
As the 4x4 climbed, dipped, and skidded across the towering dunes, my heart raced. The thrill of navigating the shifting sands was matched only by the breathtaking vistas at every peak.
Later, I visited a local Bedouin family, an experience that left a lasting impression. The family's hospitality was unmatched, and I was invited to share freshly baked bread and kahwa while listening to tales of life in the sands. It was humbling to witness their resourcefulness and deep respect for their environment.
A balance of adventure and relaxation
For those seeking serenity, Desert Nights Resort offers ample opportunities to unwind. I spent my afternoon at the Mandara Spa, where I indulged in a rejuvenating massage using locally sourced oils. As my tension melted away, I realised how perfectly the resort balances adventure with relaxation.
One of the highlights of my stay was simply stargazing. With no light pollution, the desert sky transforms into a celestial masterpiece. Wrapped in a blanket, I lay on a lounge chair outside my tent, marveling at constellations and the desert’s tranquil beauty.
Desert Nights Resort is committed to preserving the pristine beauty of Rimal Al Sharqiyah.
The resort employs eco-friendly practices, such as minimising water and energy consumption and reducing plastic use. Additionally, it actively supports the local community by partnering with Bedouin families and artisans, ensuring that tourism benefits the region’s inhabitants.
During my stay, Anurin Jansen, the resort’s General Manager, shared insights into the plans for 2025, including new experiences designed to deepen the connection between guests and the desert.
"We want every visitor to leave with a piece of Wahiba Sands in their heart," he said. "It’s not just about luxury; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime."
Upcoming offerings include guided photography tours, focusing on the interplay of light and shadow in the dunes, and immersive cultural workshops where guests can learn traditional crafts.
As my stay drew to a close, I felt a pang of reluctance to leave this extraordinary place. Desert Nights Resort isn’t just a luxury retreat - it’s a gateway to a deeper understanding of Oman’s culture, history, and the sheer beauty of its deserts.
Driving away, I took one last look at the dunes, now bathed in the soft light of early morning. The memories of my time here - thrilling adventures, peaceful moments, and heartfelt connections - would linger long after the sands had faded from view.
For anyone seeking an unforgettable journey into the heart of Oman’s desert, Desert Nights Resort offers more than just a place to stay; it offers a story waiting to be lived for an unparalleled experience in the heart of Oman’s iconic desert.
Here, the dunes tell ancient stories, the stars shine brighter, and every moment is steeped in the timeless allure of the desert. It’s more than just a stay - it’s a journey into the soul of Oman.
Exclusive daycation offers for Oman resident
Residents can now enjoy discounted rates for stays and day outings at Desert Nights Resort. Daycation packages are available from just OMR 30 per person and staycation packages are available from OMR 60 per room. The offer is valid for outings and stays between January – June 2025. For reservations and more information, contact [email protected] or call +968 92818388.
