Ezba: An Oasis of Slow Travel, Sustainability, and Heritage at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort By Anantara

August 18, 2025 - 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 center. 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 4,400 pounds 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 program diverts around 75,000 pounds 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 center’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 travelers 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:

Visit: www.anantara.com/en/qasr-al-sarab-abu-dhabi

Contact: Anantara’s Central Reservations Office at +971 (0) 2 895 8700.

A luxury hospitality brand for modern travelers, Anantara has connected guests to genuine places, people and stories in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations since 2001. Each Anantara embraces the surroundings and culture of its destination to create unforgettable memories for every guest. From city to sea and desert to jungle, Anantara delivers heartfelt, Thai-inspired hospitality at its over 50 hotels and resorts across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean.

Anantara is part of global hospitality group Minor Hotels and a member of the MINOR DISCOVERY loyalty program.

Visit anantara.com for more information, and connect with Anantara on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

Minor Hotels is a global leader in the hospitality industry with over 560 hotels, resorts and branded residences across 57 countries. The group crafts innovative and insightful experiences through its eight hotel brands – Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks and Tivoli – and a diverse portfolio of restaurants and bars, travel experiences and spa and wellness brands. With over four decades of expertise, Minor Hotels builds stronger brands, fosters lasting partnerships, and drives business success by always focusing on what matters most to our guests, team members and partners.

Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and recognizes its guests through one unified loyalty program, Minor DISCOVERY, part of GHA DISCOVERY.

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