Frequently Asked Questions

Aldhafra Resort is a 5-star resort in Abu Dhabi, known for its peaceful desert setting on the edge of the Empty Quarter, authentic Arabic experiences and warm, family-friendly hospitality. Nestled in the dunes, it offers the perfect escape with a blend of culture, comfort and adventure.

Yes, Aldhafra Resort is proudly part of the Vignette Collection by IHG Hotels & Resorts, offering one-of-a-kind stays with a strong sense of place and purpose. The resort is operated by Aldar Hospitality, ensuring exceptional service and locally rooted experiences.

Absolutely. We are one of the best hotels in Abu Dhabi for families. The Aldhafra Resort is specifically designed with families in mind, offering spacious accommodations, a kids’ club, outdoor games and family-friendly desert activities.

Aldhafra Resort offers a one-of-a-kind desert experience at the edge of the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter), where guests can embark on a journey through the heart of the desert. Designed with families in mind, the resort blends peaceful surroundings, rich Arabian heritage, and thoughtfully curated desert experiences like stargazing, camel trekking and traditional Gahwa tasting, creating lasting memories for all ages.

Yes, day visitors are welcome to dine at the resort’s restaurants or book select activities in advance. Access to our Abu Dhabi gym and pool is also available for non-staying guests upon request. For bookings or more information, please email concierge@aldhafraresort.com or contact us at +971 0 2894 6111.

Aldhafra Resort is located in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi, near Madinat Zayed, on the edge of the Liwa Desert.

The resort is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Abu Dhabi and 3.5 hours from Dubai. It is easily accessible by car, and private transfers can be arranged on request. For more information, please email concierge@aldhafraresort.com or contact us at +971 0 2894 6111.

Yes, the resort is located right on the edge of the legendary Liwa Desert, offering breathtaking views of the dunes and access to desert experiences.

Yes, complimentary parking is available for all guests and visitors.

Abu Dhabi International Airport is the closest major airport, approximately 2.5 hours away by car.

There is a vast array of room types at Aldhafra Resort. From our Deluxe Rooms to our extra spacious selection of luxury Executive Suites, you’ll be sure to find something to suit your needs. Whether you want a desert view, resort access or a room big enough for the whole family find your perfect base in Abu Dhabi at Aldhafra Resort. 

Connecting rooms are available for all Deluxe rooms at Aldhafra Resort and can only be arranged with the same view.

An extra bed is available at AED 150. For details, please contact +971 02 894 6111. 

All rooms at Aldhafra Resort are non-smoking. Designated smoking areas are available. 

Guests can enjoy a changing array of desert experiences at Aldhafra Resort such as camel trekking, falcon shows, outdoor games, Arabic coffee tasting, sand bottle art, stargazing workshops and more.

Yes, camel rides in the Liwa Desert are available and can be booked as part of your stay at Aldhafra Resort or as an add-on activity. Contact our team to book your desert adventure.

The desert experiences offered at Aldhafra Resort are suitable for all ages above. 

Yes, two complimentary activities are included per stay. Additional activities and premium desert experiences are available at a surcharge.

Yes, Aldhafra Resort features traditional falcon shows and cultural experiences as part of its activity offerings.

Camel trekking, sand bottle artistry, clay pottery, stargazing, and archery do not require advance booking. Desert dining and desert activities do require prior booking. For reservations, please contact concierge@aldhafraresort.com or call +971 02 894 6111. 

Our team can help you to make the most of your desert adventure at Aldhafra Resort. For a complete experience, including memorable activities, restaurant dining, desert safari, and dinner under the stars, please contact concierge@aldhafraresort.com to plan your full itinerary.

Yes, Aldhafra Resort has a desert-inspired Kids’ Club, offering fun and educational activities for children aged 4–12.

Family-friendly facilities at Aldhafra Resort include outdoor games, family rooms, kids-friendly dining options and a range of experiences suitable for all ages.

Aldhafra Resort offers outdoor adventures for younger guests, and a new Kids' Club with a comprehensive activity program.

Babysitting services can be arranged with advance notice. Please contact the resort directly for availability.

Aldhafra Resort offers diverse dining options including:

• Al Badiya Restaurant – All-day dining with Arabic and international cuisine.

• Layali Bar – A speakeasy-style lounge serving cocktails and light bites.

• Al Liwan Restaurant – Our brand-new speciality restaurant serving Arabic cuisine will be opening early 2026. 

• Room Service – Available 24/7 for in-room dining convenience.

Yes, guests can enjoy both Arabic specialties and a variety of international dishes prepared by experienced chefs at our Abu Dhabi resort.

Yes, the main restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with an all-day à la carte menu available.

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available across all menus.

Yes, outside guests are welcome to dine with prior reservation.

Yes, Aldhafra Resort is licensed to serve alcohol. A selection of beverages is available at Layali Bar and Al Badiya Restaurant, as well as during meal service for in-house guests.

Al Badiya Restaurant: 

Breakfast: 6:30 AM-10:30 AM

Lunch: 12:00 PM-3:30 PM

Dinner: 7:00 PM-10:30 PM

Al Layali Bar:

Daily:  5:00 PM – 1:00 AM

We recommend creating a reservation for Al Badiya Restaurant, to do this please contact us on +971 02 894 6111 or concierge@aldhafraresort.com. 

Yes, the restaurants at Aldhafra Resort offer Halal option. 
 

There is no dress code for the restaurants or bars at Aldhafra Resort. 

Yes, the resort features an infinity pool with stunning views overlooking the desert, offering a relaxing and picturesque experience for guests

Yes, a well-equipped gym is available for all guests. Outside guests can also access the gym with membership and a day pass. For bookings or more information, please email info@aldhafraresort.com or contact us at +971 0 2894 6111.

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort.

Yes, Aldhafra Resort has meeting rooms and outdoor venues ideal for corporate retreats and private events. For bookings or more information, please email info@aldhafraresort.com or contact us at +971 0 2894 6111.

Yes, Aldhafra Resort is a pet-friendly resort in Abu Dhabi. Please note the following important information:

• A daily charge of AED 70 applies for having your pet stay at the resort.
• A non-refundable deep cleaning fee of AED 350 will apply upon checkout.
• Guests are required to prevent noise or any other disturbances caused by their pet, in consideration of other hotel guests.
  Additional cleaning or repair charges may apply if required.

Yes, if you’d like to discuss having your wedding at Aldhafra Resort contact us for more information through events@yasplazahotels.com. 

Yes, EV charging is available at Aldhafra Resort. 

You can book directly through IHG’s official website, by calling +971-2-6562512, or by emailing reservations@aldhafraresort.com.

Yes, you can modify or cancel your reservation by logging into your account on the IHG website – Aldhafra Resort – IHG. Please note that changes are subject to availability and the applicable terms and conditions, including the resort’s cancellation policy.

Aldhafra Resort adheres to IHG's standard cancellation policy, which typically allows cancellations up to 24 hours before your scheduled arrival without penalty. However, cancellation policies may vary depending on the rate plan you selected at the time of booking. For instance, "Book Early and Save" or "Advanced Purchase" rates often require full prepayment and are non-refundable if cancelled or modified. 

To review or modify your reservation, please visit the IHG Manage Your Reservation page.

Many of our rates include breakfast. Please check the rate details when booking.

Yes, seasonal packages and UAE resident rates are offered throughout the year. Check the offers page for current offers at our Abu Dhabi desert resort.

You can check into your room at Aldhafra Resort from 3pm, and check out is before 12pm. 

Early check-in and late check-out may be possible; please contact the concierge to request this. 

Yes, a valid credit card is required to guarantee your reservation.

Yes, select rates allow for payment at the property. Check your booking terms for details.

Yes, you can earn and redeem IHG One Rewards points when staying at Aldhafra Resort.

Yes, group, wedding and business bookings can be arranged by contacting the resort directly. Please email info@aldhafraresort.com or contact us at +971 0 2894 6111.