Abu Dhabi
In a world increasingly defined by speed, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara invites guests to slow down and embrace a more intentional way of travel through Ezba, the resort’s cultural and education centre. Ezba was born from 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.
Nestled within the majestic dunes of the Liwa desert, Ezba operates around four key pillars: history, culture, nature, and immersive experiences. It champions the global slow travel movement and offers hotel guests a living connection to the traditions that shaped the UAE, where every moment, from weaving traditional crafts to sharing Arabic coffee in a vibrant majlis, brings the spirit of the desert to life.
More than just a cultural destination, Ezba is a living example of sustainable desert living, where conservation, education, and guest experience come together. Every detail, from immersive activities to thoughtful landscaping, is designed to regenerate desert ecosystems, protect native species, and inspire responsible interaction with the environment.
Sustainability isn’t a concept it’s a daily practice. The on-site greenhouse produces over 2,000 kilograms of fresh herbs, vegetables, and dates each year, creating a genuine farm-to-table experience while reducing the need for outside sourcing. A robust composting programme diverts more than 34,000 kilograms of organic waste annually, turning it into nutrient-rich mulch that supports the flourishing desert landscape. 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 encounters are woven seamlessly into the Ezba experience. Camels, saluki dogs, and falcons are integral to the story of Bedouin survival and spirit, and visitors can learn firsthand how these animals shaped the identity of the desert tribes and continue to hold profound cultural significance today. The centre’s impact also extends beyond the resort grounds. Ezba plays a vital role in conservation efforts by providing a safe habitat for endangered species such as the Arabian oryx and Arabian gazelle, supporting government-led initiatives to reintroduce them into the wild. Protected environments nurtured at Ezba support the gradual return of these iconic creatures to the wild, enhancing the desert’s delicate biodiversity.
Ezba educates more than 12,000 guests annually about sustainable desert living and the pivotal role endangered species play in the local culture. Through authentic cultural immersions, guests can discover traditional crafts such as Sadu weaving and intricate Talli embroidery, allowing them to slow down and reconnect through meaningful experiences led by local artisans. Visitors leave not just with memories, but with a deeper understanding of the ancient yet remarkably relevant ways that Bedouin communities lived in balance with nature.
“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,” says Jean-Paul Dantil, General Manager of Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. “Through Ezba, we pride ourselves on fostering learning, reflection, and reconnection, where every experience encourages purpose, and a lasting appreciation for sustainability and heritage.”
In the serene stillness of the Empty Quarter, the destination stands as an oasis where tradition and innovation converge, inviting travellers to slow down, reconnect with the natural world, and witness how life flourishes when it is nurtured by respect, legacy, and hope.
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.anantara.com/en/qasr-al-sarab-abu-dhabi or contact Anantara’s Central Reservations Office at +971 (0) 2 895 8700.
