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Al Badayer Retreat will be one of your best options if you enjoy desert areas, off-road driving, and dune bashing. This retreat is often considered one of the best UAE spots for desert sports enthusiasts. Besides offering you the chance to enjoy some of the top desert sports, Al Badayer Retreat also provides you with a unique, eye-catching landscape you might have never seen.
But here, a question may come into your mind: How to get to Al Badayer Retreat? Or, What are the accommodation options out there?
Stay with DoJoin to find your answer to all of these important questions. In this full guide about Al Badayer Retreat, you will find out all of the important information about this hotel.
Important Information about Al Badayer Retreat
Al Badayer Retreat, also known as Al Badayer Oasis Retreat, is located in the Al Badayer desert area of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The retreat lies along the Sharjah-Kalbah road, which is near the famous red dunes of the Al Madam Desert region. If you are into the old style of traditional Arabian forts, this Al Badayer retreat is the best option for you. This retreat is a part of the Sharjah Collection by Mysk. Plus, it is approximately a one-hour drive from both Dubai and Sharjah to this retreat, making it an accessible yet remote gateway for those who are looking to explore the beauty of the desert, far from the crowds in the city.
Here is a quick look at the important information you need to know before getting to Al Badayer Retreat by Sharjah:
| Website | https://sharjahcollection.ae/al-badayer-retreat/ |
| Address | Al Badayer – Sharjah – United Arab Emirates |
| Location | https://maps.app.goo.gl/jwRqvQroABfpU7yZ7 |
| Phone number | +971 6 801 2000 |
| Check-in / Check-out | Check-in: 15:00 to 19:00
Check-out: by 12:00 PM |
| Languages spoken | French, Russian, Arabic, Afrikaans, Filipino, Hindi, Nepali, Romanian, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu |
| Booking price on DoJoin (Avg) | From 200 AED ($54.45) per person |
Book your Ticket for the Al Badayer Retreat in DoJoin!
Are you thinking about visiting the Al Badayer Retreat and staying out there for a night or more? If so, DoJoin is here to help you visit the Al Badayer retreat for an affordable price! The DoJoin team provides you with various, affordable tickets for the Al Badayer Retreat and this is some good news for those who are low on budget. Plus, DoJoin provides you with an application that makes the purchasing process super easy! So, do not hesitate and take a look at the DoJoin website or app, to see what tickets are good for you and your family.
The Retreat’s Architecture and Design
The architecture and design of Al Badayer Retreat Hotel are inspired by the traditional Arabian heritage. This retreat combines the aesthetics of an ancient desert fort with modern luxury.
Here are the important notes about the Al Badayer Retreat architecture:
- Fort-like exterior: the retreat characterizes a traditional Arabian fort with high walls, grand entrance gates, and lookout towers.
- Traditional and contemporary fusion: the design seamlessly blends traditional Emirati architecture with modern amenities and comfort inside.
- Use of natural materials: there was a focus on natural materials when building the Al Badayer Retreat, such as stone, wood, and sand-colored stucco.
- Interior design: the interior design of Al Badayer architecture features soft lighting and rich textures along with traditional Arabian textiles; such as carpets and cushions.
- Courtyards and open spaces: the retreat is built around courtyards, allowing for open-air spaces with natural light where also your privacy is promised.
Getting to Al Badayer Retreat: What Are the Transportation Options?
It is probably the most important question for those who are thinking about booking a room in Al Badayer Retreat: How to get to Al Badayer?
There are generally 7 ways for you to get to Al Badayer Retreat:
- By car (self-drive)
- By taxi
- By ride-hailing services
- Hotel transfers
- Tour companies and desert safaris
- Public transport (limiter)
- Renting a 4×4 vehicle
Below, we have mentioned and explained anything you should know about each of these options:
1. Getting to Al Badayer Retreat By Car (self-drive)
If you are planning on getting to Al Badayer Retreat by car, there are three points you can start your travel from:
- From Dubai: The retreat is about a one-hour drive from Dubai. You can take the E44 (Dubai-Hatta Road) or E102 (Sharjah-Kalba Road), which are both straightforward routes leading toward the Al Badayer desert.
- From Sharjah: Al Badayer Retreat is about a 45-minute drive from Sharjah City. You can follow the E102 (Sharjah-Kalba Road) southeast until you reach the Al Badayer area.
- From Abu Dhabi: It’s around a two-hour drive from Abu Dhabi. You can take the E11 highway towards Dubai, and then follow the E44 or E102 routes toward Al Badayer.
Note: The retreat has various parking facilities for guests, making self-driving a convenient option. So, if you prefer the self-drive option you do not have to worry about the parking facilities of Al Badayer Retreat.
2. Getting to Al Badayer Retreat By Taxi
You can easily book a taxi from Dubai, Sharjah, or any nearby city to Al Badayer Retreat. Though taxis in the UAE are generally reliable, this can be an expensive option, especially for long-distance travel from cities like Abu Dhabi. So if you are low on budget, you may want to think twice about getting to Al Badayer Hotel by taxi.
3. Getting to Al Badayer Retreat By Ride-hailing Services
Services like Uber and Careem operate in the UAE, and you can use these apps to book a ride directly to Al Badayer Retreat. However, availability may be limited the closer you get to the desert, so it’s a good idea to pre-arrange your ride back.
4. Getting to Al Badayer Retreat By Hotel Transfers
If you do not like any of the options mentioned above, the good news is, that Al Badayer Retreat offers transfer services upon request. You can arrange for a pickup from major cities like Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi when booking your stay. This is often a more comfortable and hassle-free option as the hotel vehicles are equipped for desert terrain.
5. Getting to Al Badayer Retreat By Tour Companies and Desert Safaris
Some tour operators in Dubai and Sharjah offer packages that include transportation to the Al Badayer desert area, especially if you’re interested in dune bashing, quad biking, or other desert activities. These tours sometimes include a visit or stay at Al Badayer Retreat as part of the experience.
6. Getting to Al Badayer Retreat By Public Transport
Public transport options to Al Badayer Retreat are extremely limited. There are no direct buses or trains to the desert area, and the closest public transport stops are still a considerable distance from the Al Badayer retreat. If you want to use public transport to get there, you would need to take a taxi or arrange a ride for the final part of the journey and reach the hotel.
7. Getting to Al Badayer Retreat By Renting a 4×4 Vehicle
If you’re adventurous and plan to explore the desert further, renting a 4×4 vehicle is a great option for you. The desert terrain around Al Badayer Retreat is popular for off-roading, and having a suitable vehicle allows you to explore the nearby dunes and desert landscapes on your own.
Accommodation Options of Al Badayer Retreat
What are the accommodation options of the Al Badayer Retreat after all? Below we have mentioned and explained each accommodation option of the Al Badayer Retreat so you can make a wise choice on going there.
First of all, let us see what amenities and room types are included in the whole Al Badayer Retreat:
- 21 rooms and 10 tents
- 7 one-bedroom private tents with a pool
- Individual air-conditioning
- 11 deluxe rooms (king or twin)
- 3 two-bedroom private tents with a pool
- In-room refreshment center
- 10 grand deluxe rooms (king or twin)
- LED TV and Cable Satellite TV channels
- Complimentary internet
Other amenities provided by the Al Badayer Retreat:
- Free Parking
- Free High-Speed Internet (WiFi)
- Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
- Pool
- Free breakfast
- Bicycles available
- Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
- Airport Transportation
Al Badayer Retreat Room Types
Al Badayer Retreat provides you with 7 different types of rooms (that also include tents) that you can choose from depending on your needs:
| Room type | Room features (highlights) | |
| 1 | Deluxe Room |
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| 2 | Two-Bedroom Private Tent |
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| 3 | Deluxe One-Bedroom Private Tent |
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| 4 | Deluxe Two-Bedroom Private Tent |
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| 5 | Deluxe Three-Bedroom Private Tent |
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| 6 | One-Bedroom Private Tent |
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| 7 | Grand Deluxe Room |
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Activities and Experiences around Al Badayer Retreat
Now that you know how to get to Al Badayer Retreat and what type of room to book, the question probably is: What to do after arriving at Al Badayer Hotel?
Your answer is here: Activities such as Dune Bashing and quad biking are among your best options as brilliant activities and experiences at Al Badayer Retreat.
Below we have mentioned the most popular activity options you have when you get there:
- Dune bashing: you can take guided 4×4 rides through the dunes
- Quad biking and buggy rides: you can ride through the vast desert landscape, navigating the dunes
- Camel riding: camel riding ranges from short 30-minute rides to longer excursions
- Sandboarding: it is just like snowboarding, but on soft desert sand.
- Stargazing: with minimal light pollution, the desert sky comes alive at night.
- Desert hiking and trekking: guided desert treks are available, where guests can walk across the sand dunes.
- Horseback riding: Al Badayer Retreat provides guests with horseback riding sessions, where you can ride Arabian horses through the desert.
- Yoga and meditation in the desert: some wellness programs at Al Badayer Retreat include guided Yoga and meditation sessions.
- Fat biking: guests can ride specially designed bikes with wide tires over the desert sand.
- Desert safari and BBQ dinner: Al Badayer Retreat offers desert safari packages that also include BBQ dinner under the stars. The safari usually ends with live entertainment, such as belly dancing or Tanoura performances.
Dining Options at Al Badayer Retreat
The Al Badayer Retreat surprises are not over yet! This popular hotel provides you with a vast range of dining options that are suitable for any taste, age, and gender.
Here is a list of dining options at Al Badayer Retreat:
- Al Madam Restaurant: Middle Eastern and International
- Nizwa Café: Light Bites, Snacks, and Beverages
- Outdoor BBQ and Dining Experiences: The menu can be customized, but usually features a mix of grilled meats, fresh salads, and traditional Middle Eastern dishes.
- In-room Dining: Middle Eastern and International
- Cultural Dining Experiences
- Emirati Cuisine Tasting: Guests can explore the flavors of the UAE with specially curated Emirati menus, featuring dishes like harees (a traditional wheat and meat dish), machboos (a spiced rice dish with chicken or lamb), and luqaimat (sweet dumplings).
- Arabic Coffee and Dates: Arabic coffee (Gahwa) is a significant part of Middle Eastern hospitality, and guests at the retreat can enjoy freshly brewed Gahwa served with dates, offering an authentic taste of Emirati culture.
- Sunset Tea and Refreshments: This includes a selection of Arabic teas, coffees, and light snacks, enjoyed while watching the desert landscape change color as the sun sets behind the dunes on the retreat’s terrace.
- Customizable Dietary Preferences: Whether you are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have other specific dietary requirements, the culinary team at the retreat can customize menus to meet your needs. This can be arranged in advance or during your stay.
Exploring the Surrounding Desert of Al Badayer Retreat
Going to visit and stay at the Al Badayer Hotel is not just about booking one of its rooms and spending one or a couple of nights in it. But, there are some tourist attractions located around the Al Badayer Retreat you can visit.
Below we have gathered a detailed list of locations you can stop by when you get to the Al Badayer Retreat:
1. Fossil Rock
The Fossil Rock is a remarkable geological formation that dates back to millions of years ago. It is named after the marine fossils embedded in its rocks.
- Location: About 20 minutes from Al Badayer Retreat
- Activities: Hiking up the rock for stunning views – Fossil hunting and educational tours – Off-road driving experiences around the base of Fossil Rock
2. Mleiha Archaeological Center
The Mleiha Archaeological Center includes artifacts, exhibits, and guided tours that explore prehistoric tombs, caves, and settlements dating back to the Bronze Age.
- Location: Approximately 25-30 minutes from the retreat
- Activities: Archaeological site tours, including visits to ancient tombs, forts, and the Umm an-Nar tomb – Guided dune buggy tours through the surrounding desert landscapes
3. Al Madam Ghost Town
Al Madam is an eerie and mysterious abandoned village that has been slowly swallowed by the surrounding desert sands. Many tourists go there for its atmospheric photography opportunity.
- Location: About 15-20 minutes from Al Badayer Retreat
- Activities: Exploring the abandoned homes and structures
4. Al Faya Mountain
Al Faya Mountain is an eye-catching desert landmark offering a rich history. At its base, you’ll find the Al Faya Lodge, a boutique hotel and spa that also provides insights into the area’s geological and cultural history.
- Location: Roughly 40 minutes from Al Badayer Retreat
- Activities: Hiking and exploring the rocky terrains – taking in panoramic views of the surrounding desert and nearby Fossil Rock
5. Sharjah Desert Park
Sharjah Desert Park is a family-friendly location that offers a beautiful garden, a natural history museum, and a wildlife center. The park offers a variety of exhibits on the region’s flora and fauna, as well as live animals that are native to the desert, including gazelles, oryx, and reptiles.
- Location: About 35-40 minutes away
- Activities: Visiting the wildlife center
6. Camel Rock
Camel Rock is a unique rock formation in the shape of a camel’s head, surrounded by the sands of the Sharjah desert.
- Location: Roughly 30 minutes from Al Badayer Retreat
- Activities: Exploring the area for photography or simply enjoying the desert silence Adventure sports such as sandboarding and off-road driving
Best Time to Visit Al Badayer Retreat
When is the best time to visit the Al Badayer Retreat? This is the question that comes to the mind of anyone who is thinking about experience staying there.
Below we have mentioned and explained important points about the three main seasons people generally visit this retreat: ideal seasons, summer seasons, and shoulder seasons.
Ideal Seasons to Visit Al Badayer Retreat
October to April is the best, ideal season tourists choose for visiting Al Badayer Retreat. At this time of year, the weather is mild to pleasantly cool, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F). This season is ideal because:
- It is perfect for outdoor activities
- It is perfect for stargazing
Summer Seasons to Visit Al Badayer Retreat
May to September is the summer season to visit Al Badayer Retreat, which is extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the day. If you are choosing this time of year to visit the Al Badayer retreat, you should keep in mind some notes:
- The desert heat can be overwhelming during this time
- Outdoor experiences are limited during this time
Shoulder Seasons to Visit Al Badayer Retreat
April and October are the shoulder seasons in which the weather transitions from cooler to warmer temperatures, ranging between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
Why choose these moths for visiting Al Badayer Retreat:
- Balanced weather
- Best time for experiencing outdoor activities without the cross of peak seasons, but without the extreme heat of summer.
- In April, you might see some of the desert flora beginning to bloom.
Google and TripAdvisor Reviews on Al Badayer Retreat
In the last part of this article, we have gathered some of the most useful, real reviews from users who have stayed out there in Al Badayer Retreat:
- “…A stunning desert getaway for our anniversary weekend. Very relaxing and memorable stay. The villas are amazing, the amenities are great and the staff were really attentive. Big shout out to Diego for taking such great care of us! Can’t wait to go back, would definitely recommend…”
- “…It’s a fabulous journey, with a fantastic team. Many thanks to Mr Ahmed Abdelmoneam for his kindness and cooperation and help 24/7…”
- “…One of the best places ever! Everything was well organized actually amazing and the staff and esp Ahmad Bin Zayed. Who was very helpful and turned our night into a magical night. The food was great and clean and delicious of course…”
- “…It was an excellent experience and I really enjoyed every minute. The staff was very nice and the food was delicious. I feel like I am home and I am planning to visit again. Although it is 50 minutes from where I am living for sure I will come regularly to this place…”
FAQs
1. How much are the Al Badayer Retreat prices?
The average price for staying at Al Badayer Retreat is $200 to $250 per person.
2. How far is Al Badayer Retreat from Dubai?
The Al Badayer Retreat is a one-hour drive from Dubai.
3. When is the best time to visit the Al Badayer Retreat?
October to April is the best to visit and stay at Al Badayer Retreat.
4. Does Al Badayer Retreat have restaurants?
Yes, Pauls Dubai Hills Mall, Earth Restaurant And Specialty Coffee, and Hamburgheni are among the restaurants near the Al Badayer Retreat.
5. What activities does Al Badayer Retreat have?
Dune bashing, Quad biking and buggy rides, and Camel riding are among the most popular activities in Al Badayer Retreat.
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