Sculpted like a sandcastle and lit by torches and lanterns galore at night, this hotel does a fine job of feeling more intimate than its 206 room size suggests. This isn't the place for sea views, the interior location does however make for IMAX-worthy panoramic views of the surrounding dunes. The interior is the real show stopper though. Avoiding clichéd Gulf state bling, the earthen toned rooms are filled with paintings and curios depicting traditional Bedouin life. Going deeper into desert life is easily done; the hotel lays on treks across the fabled Empty Quarter by 4 x 4, foot or camel.

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