About Bab Al Shams Pool
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort Pool is not a beach club. It is not a rooftop pool bar. It is not a five-star hotel's aquatic playground. It is something far more rare in the hypermodern landscape of Dubai: a genuine escape. Located within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve approximately 45 minutes from Downtown Dubai, Bab Al Shams rises from golden sand dunes like a fort from Arabian legend — because it is. An ancient-inspired Arabian palace with wind towers, carved wooden doors, and mashrab
The journey itself is transformative. You leave Sheikh Zayed Road behind, exit near Al Qudra, and drive for 45 minutes through progressively wilder terrain. The city fades. Desert sprawls. Just when you wonder if your Uber driver has navigated correctly, the resort emerges: a golden-brick fortress with crenellated walls, surrounded by rolling dunes. You have left Dubai the metropolis and entered Bab Al Shams the sanctuary. This is deliberate. The distance is not a flaw — it is the entire point.
The three pools each serve a distinct purpose, and together they offer something no single beach club can provide: choice. The elevated relaxation and infinity pool sits at the resort's highest point, overlooking the desert landscape as it stretches endlessly toward the horizon. Floating in temperature-controlled water while watching sand dunes shift in the afternoon light is a meditative experience — one of the most visually arresting pool moments in the entire UAE. Below, the lap pool ser
Facilities & Amenities
Prices & Packages
Day passes at Bab Al Shams Pool start from aed 200. Daybeds, cabanas, and group packages are available — confirm current rates and availability via the booking request.
What to Know Before You Go
Dress Code
Resort casual, swimwear by the pool, smart casual for restaurants. Cover-ups recommended in dining areas. Emirati guests sometimes wear traditional kandura or abaya — respectful dress is appreciated by the resort.
Getting There
45-minute drive from Downtown Dubai, near Al Qudra Road, Exit 13 Sheikh Zayed Road. No public transport — taxi, Uber, or rental car required. GPS coordinates: 24.9498°N, 55.2325°E. Allow buffer time for traffic.
Reservations
Advance booking recommended, especially weekends and public holidays. Email leisure@babalshams.com or call +971-4-809-6100. The resort is intimate and capacity-controlled — walk-ins may not be accommodated. 24-hour cancellation notice required for refunds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a day pass at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort?
Day passes at Bab Al Shams range from AED 175 for the Sundowner Package (16:00–19:00, includes sunlounger and umbrella) to AED 350 for a full-day pass with lunch. Day passes without lunch are AED 275 for adults, with children (4-12) at AED 125. Cabana packages start at AED 600 for two guests.
Is Bab Al Shams far from Dubai city centre?
Yes, Bab Al Shams is located approximately 45 minutes drive from Downtown Dubai, in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve near Al Qudra area (Exit 13, Sheikh Zayed Road). There is no public transport to the venue — you will need a taxi, Uber, or rental car. However, the desert location is intentional and is what makes it special — a genuine escape from the city.
Does Bab Al Shams have a pool?
Yes, Bab Al Shams has three temperature-controlled swimming pools: an elevated relaxation/infinity pool with desert views, a lap pool for fitness, and a shaded children's pool. There are also 4 Jacuzzis. Unlike beach clubs, this is a pure pool and desert experience with no ocean access.
Can you do camel rides with a day pass at Bab Al Shams?
Yes. Short camel rides across the resort's dunes are available to day pass guests. Some rides are included depending on your package; others may be at additional cost. Check with the resort directly when booking. Falconry demonstrations with resident falconers are also available.
What is the sundowner package at Bab Al Shams?
The Sundowner Package is available from 16:00 to 19:00 daily and costs AED 175 per person. It includes a sun lounger, umbrella, and full pool access. This is the best time to visit — the desert light turns golden, temperatures drop to comfortable levels, and the landscape becomes spectacular. Advanced booking is recommended.
Our Verdict
Editorial rating by Fredrik Filipsson. We compare packages, prices and atmosphere across every Dubai beach club and update each profile through the season.
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