Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in Ezba: an Oasis of Slow Travel, Sustainability & Heritage

Experience slow travel, sustainability and heritage at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara and its cultural and educational center, Ezra.

By Anne Sewell
August 19, 2025

Slow and sustainable travel in the desert [Photo credit: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi]

In this busy modern world, sometimes it is a great idea to get out of the rat race and spend time in quiet and nature. One ideal place to do so is Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, set in Ezba, the resort’s cultural and educational center. Ezra was created for a deep commitment to preserve and celebrate Emirati Bedouin heritage, while championing environmental conservation, sustainability, and community engagement – values inspired by the vision of the UAE’s founding father, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Slow travel to Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Ezba nestles among the majestic dunes of the Liwa desert, and operates around four key pillars: history, culture, nature, and immersive experiences. This location champions the global slow travel moment, where hotel guests can make a living connection to traditions that shaped the UAE. Along the journey, each moment, from weaving traditional crafts to sharing Arabic coffee in a vibrant majlis, brings the spirit of the desert to life.

[Photo credit: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi]

Ezba isn’t just a cultural destination, it is a living example of sustainable desert living, where conservation, education and guest experience come together. Each detail, which includes immersive activities, thoughtful landscaping and more, is crafted to regenerate desert ecosystems, protect native species, and inspire responsible interaction with the environment.

Sustainability as a daily practice

Sustainability is a daily practice at Ezba, where the on-site greenhouse produces more than 4,400 pounds of fresh herbs, vegetables, and dates each year. This creates a genuine farm-to-table experience, while reducing the need for outside sourcing.

[Photo credit: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi]

Moreover, a robust composting program diverts around 75,000 pounds of organic waste annually, turning it into nutrient-rich mulch that supports the flourishing desert landscape. Meanwhile, solar power fuels many of Ezba’s operations, groundwater conservation ensures careful use of local resources, and regenerative landscaping helps revive native flora and boost biodiversity.

Wildlife adventures at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in Ezba

The Ezba experience includes exciting wildlife encounters, including camels, saluki dogs, and falcons, that are integral to the story of Bedouin survival and spirit. Here, guests can learn firsthand how falcons are integral to the story of Bedouin survival and spirit. Moreover, they can learn firsthand how the wildlife has shaped the identity of the desert tribes and continues to hold profound cultural significance today.

[Photo credit: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi]

The center’s impact also extends beyond the resort grounds, as Ezba plays a vital role in conservation efforts by providing a safe habitat for endangered species, including the Arabian oryx and Arabian gazelle, while supporting government-led initiatives to reintroduce them into the wild. Meanwhile, protected environments at Ezba also support the gradual return of the iconic wildlife to the wild, while enhancing the desert’s delicate biodiversity.

Learn about sustainable desert living in Ezba

Each year, Ezba educates more than 12,000 guests about sustainable desert living and the pivotal role endangered species play in the local culture. Authentic cultural immersions will allow guests to discover traditional crafts, including Sadu weaving, and intricate Talli embroidery. This allows them to slow down and reconnect through meaningful experiences led by local artisans.

[Photo credit: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi]

Not only do guests gain beautiful memories, they will also gain a deeper understanding of the ancient, yet remarkably relevant, ways that Bedouin communities live in balance with nature.

Paul Dantil, General Manager of Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, said:

“Ezba embodies everything we believe slow travel should be. It’s a place where guests can immerse themselves deeply in the traditions, nature, and rhythms of the desert. Through Ezba, we pride ourselves on fostering learning, reflection, and reconnection, where every experience encourages purpose, and a lasting appreciation for sustainability and heritage.”

The destination is set in the serene stillness of the Empty Quarter and stands out as an oasis, where tradition and innovation converge. This invites visitors to slow down, reconnect with the natural world, and witness how life flourishes when it is nurtured with respect, legacy and hope.

[Photo credit: Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi]

For more information or to make a reservation, visit the hotel's website. Alternatively, contact Anantara’s Central Reservations Office at +971 (0) 2 895 8700.