Best Luxury Resorts in Africa and the Middle East to Visit

Uncover the best luxury resorts in Africa and the Middle East for an unforgettable getaway. Stay at Atlantis The Palm in Dubai for family fun, or connect with nature at Al Maha Desert Resort. Find unique safari experiences at Londolozi in South Africa, where wildlife sightings and gourmet dining await. Enjoy beachfront luxury at the iconic Burj Al Arab, or indulge in desert tranquility at Banyan Tree Al Wadi. For an eco-friendly escape, choose Desert Islands Resort & Spa in Abu Dhabi. Each destination offers unparalleled comfort, adventure, and cultural richness. There's so much more that's ready to be revealed.
Top Resorts for Family Fun
When you're planning a family vacation, the right resort can make all the difference in creating unforgettable memories. In Africa and the Middle East, luxury hotels offer diverse options for family fun, blending relaxation with adventure. Atlantis The Palm in Dubai is a top choice, boasting an aquarium and a thrilling water park that promise excitement for all generations. Here, you can enjoy numerous dining experiences while discovering the lively atmosphere of this iconic destination.
For a serene escape, consider Al Maha Desert Resort. Situated amidst golden dunes, it offers guided nature walks and activities tailored for children, allowing families to connect with the desert's enchanting landscape. If a private pool and nature excursions are more your style, Banyan Tree Al Wadi in the UAE provides an all-pool villa experience. It's perfect for families seeking a tranquil retreat with opportunities to investigate local wildlife.
In Egypt, the Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh presents a blend of luxury and leisure with expansive pools and a private beach. The kids' club keeps young ones entertained with supervised activities, ensuring parents can unwind knowing their children are safe and engaged.
Unique Safari Experiences
For an unparalleled adventure in the wild, Londolozi in South Africa promises a safari experience like no other. Situated in an ancient riverine forest, the five thatched-roof safari camps offer luxury accommodations that connect you intimately with nature. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the wilderness and stepping outside your stylish African home, where private plunge pools await, offering a serene spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
At Londolozi, you're guaranteed wildlife sightings, making it a premier destination for safari enthusiasts. The thrill of witnessing majestic elephants, lions, and leopards in their natural habitat is an experience you won't forget. To enrich your expedition, participate in guided treks that provide deeper insights into the ecosystem. These treks, combined with life-coaching sessions, focus on wellness and emotional healing, ensuring a holistic safari experience.
Culinary delights await you here, too. Start your day with sunrise treats, and as the sun sets, enjoy sumptuous dinners under the vast African sky. The blend of gourmet dining and the wild environment encapsulates the unique safari experiences Londolozi offers, making it a destination that perfectly marries luxury with the untamed spirit of Africa.
Beachfront Luxury Retreats

As your expedition through Africa and the Middle East continues, the allure of beachfront luxury retreats beckons. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves lapping against a private island's shore, with some of the best hotels offering unparalleled comfort. In the Middle East, the iconic Burj Al Arab in Dubai stands as a symbol of opulence, boasting 202 luxurious rooms within its sail-shaped silhouette on a private beach. Meanwhile, Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah offers a unique beachfront experience, where 29 opulent rooms await amidst a sprawling resort of extensive amenities.
For those seeking a blend of nature and luxury, the Desert Islands Resort & Spa off Abu Dhabi is a perfect choice. This retreat combines stunning beaches with eco-focused activities for a truly relaxing stay. On the other hand, Hotel Ajman offers over 500 meters of private sandy beach, providing 189 rooms that seamlessly blend comfort and luxury—ideal for a serene getaway.
- Burj Al Arab: Tallest hotel with a private beach in Dubai.
- Desert Islands Resort & Spa: Eco-conscious beachfront retreat.
- Hotel Ajman: 500 meters of private sandy beach and 189 luxurious rooms.
Each destination guarantees an unforgettable experience amidst the region's enthralling beauty.
Desert Oasis Getaways
Amidst the vast dunes of Africa and the Middle East, desert oasis getaways promise an enchanting blend of luxury and isolation. If you crave a stunning desert escape, Al Maha Desert Resort is a must-visit. Set within a 25-square kilometer conservation reserve, it offers breathtaking views and luxurious accommodations that blend seamlessly with the raw beauty of the desert landscape.
Consider Bab Al Shams Desert Resort for a unique cultural experience. Designed like a traditional Arabic fort, this resort boasts 113 rooms and an infinity pool with expansive sandy vistas, perfect for soaking up the desert sun. It's a place where tradition meets luxury, giving you a taste of authentic Arabian hospitality.
For those seeking privacy, Banyan Tree Al Wadi is the initial UAE desert resort offering an all-pool villa concept. Here, tranquility reigns supreme, allowing you to unwind in a stunning natural setting. Meanwhile, Al Areen Palace & Spa offers 78 villas, each with a private pool, making it the only all-villa private pool resort in the Middle East. It's an ideal spot for a secluded getaway, offering a perfect balance of privacy and opulence amid the desert's serene beauty.
Award-Winning Island Havens

When you think of award-winning island havens, a few standout destinations immediately come to mind. The Desert Islands Resort & Spa off the coast of Abu Dhabi is a perfect blend of eco-friendliness and luxury accommodations. It's a unique place to stay for nature enthusiasts who crave sustainable experiences. Here, you can enjoy the serene environment while knowing your footprint is minimal.
Another remarkable spot is the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island. Located within a vast Arabian nature park, it offers luxurious accommodations alongside thrilling adventures and wildlife encounters. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the wild and spending your day exploring the rich biodiversity that this island has to offer.
Don't miss out on Raffles The Palm Dubai, recognized as the top resort in 2024. This island haven boasts 387 rooms and a private beach, making it a must-visit for those who indulge in lavish design and exceptional service. It's an ideal choice for anyone seeking a mix of opulence and relaxation.
Here's a quick rundown of these exceptional places:
- Desert Islands Resort & Spa: Eco-friendly luxury off Abu Dhabi.
- Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island: Adventure and wildlife in Africa and the Middle.
- Raffles The Palm Dubai: Top luxury with a private beach.