From a dinner show under the stars to sunset cocktails—let’s explore the culinary experiences offered by this legendary resort. Just 45 minutes by car from Dubai’s glittering skyscrapers, and reality shifts. The city’s futuristic pulse fades, giving way to a world where the horizon is defined only by golden dunes and time flows according to the rhythms of the desert. Welcome to Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, an authentic Arabian fortress that has become synonymous with luxury and seclusion in the heart of the desert. But Bab Al Shams offers more than just breathtaking landscapes and tranquility. The gastronomic experience here is a compelling reason to visit in its own right, as significant as the resort’s unique atmosphere. This guide will serve as your compass through the resort’s culinary landscape. We’ll tell you where to enjoy the most beautiful sunset with a cocktail in hand, which dinner will be the highlight of your trip, and how to plan the perfect evening away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Al Hadheerah: A starlit dinner straight out of an Arabian tale
To call Al Hadheerah simply a restaurant would be a gross understatement. It is Bab Al Shams’ flagship attraction—a immersive show where dinner plays the starring role, but by no means the only one. It’s the atmosphere here that captivates you from the very first second and holds you spellbound until the end of the evening. You step into the courtyard of an ancient fortress, surrounded by massive walls. The air vibrates with live Arabic music and is filled with the aroma of spices and the smoky scent of the grill. The soft light of hundreds of torches dances across copper tableware and vibrant oriental carpets, while a performance unfolds on stage featuring dancers, musicians, and artists, immersing you in a living oriental fairy tale.
The kitchen at Al Hadheerah is just as much of a spectacle as the show itself. The centerpiece is a massive open grill and “live” cooking stations where dozens of dishes sizzle, crackle, and come to life right before your eyes. Juicy, succulent kebabs are just pulled off the fire; chefs pile mountains of traditional meze onto platters—from silky hummus to spicy mutabbal. But the true gem of the evening is lamb ouzi: tender lamb that has been slow-cooked whole for several hours, with the meat practically falling off the bone. And for dessert, you’ll find an entire bazaar of oriental sweets, from syrup-soaked kunafa to creamy umm ali.
More than just dinner: Al Hadheerah is a full-fledged cultural attraction. You’re not paying for individual dishes, but for an immersive three-hour show where food takes center stage.
Dinner is served in a fixed-price buffet format, costing around AED 399–499 per person. It’s important to note that beverages are not included in this price and are paid separately.
Anwā Sunset Lounge: The ultimate desert sunset stage
If Al Hadheerah is the highlight of the evening, then Anwā Sunset Lounge is its perfect beginning. This rooftop lounge is rightfully considered the resort’s premier spot for witnessing the sunset, as the desert transforms into a breathtaking canvas of golden and crimson hues. The ambiance here invites complete relaxation: low, cozy sofas draped in soft cushions and dim lighting create the ideal setting for unwinding. A soothing chillout soundtrack with subtle Eastern influences provides the perfect backdrop.
Be sure to explore the cocktail menu—it’s not just a list, but a creative interpretation of the desert. Local mixologists craft signature drinks that feature unexpected ingredients such as date syrup, cardamom, or smoky notes, conceptually linking each cocktail to the themes of the sunset and the dunes. It’s the perfect spot for an aperitif before dinner or for a leisurely evening under the stars. Guests can also enjoy a hookah (shisha) with a variety of flavors.
Tip for the perfect sunset: To secure the best seats with panoramic views, arrive 30–40 minutes before sunset.
This time of year here is truly magical and the most popular.
Ninive: Middle Eastern fine dining set against an oasis backdrop
While Al Hadheerah is all about grandeur and spectacle, Ninive focuses on refinement and gastronomic subtlety. This establishment is regularly featured in prestigious dining guides, offering a creative take on Middle Eastern cuisine. Imagine familiar flavors presented in an entirely new, elegant way—perhaps a deconstructed tabbouleh or a tagine with unexpected textures. The atmosphere of a luxurious tent in an oasis, combined with a more tranquil and intimate setting, makes Ninive the perfect choice for connoisseurs seeking not just a meal, but a truly refined culinary experience.
Everyday luxury: Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners at Zala
Zala (formerly known as Al Forsan) is the resort’s main restaurant, offering meals throughout the day. Mornings here begin with a buffet breakfast that meets the highest 5-star hotel standards. You’ll find an impressive selection of fresh produce, from international dishes to traditional Arab snacks, a station where eggs are prepared to your liking, freshly squeezed juices, and exquisite pastries. The morning atmosphere is calm and relaxed—ideal for starting your day in the desert. Throughout the day, Zala offers lunches and dinners, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a more relaxed and less formal option compared to Al Hadheerah or Ninive.
How to choose your perfect evening: The gastronomic compass
Each venue at Bab Al Shams offers its own unique evening experience. To help you choose the one that perfectly matches your mood and goals, we’ve created a small gastronomic compass.
For an unforgettable romantic evening or special occasion
Recommended venue: Definitely Al Hadheerah.
Key features: A fairytale-like atmosphere, live entertainment, a dinner under the stars.
Budget range: High.
For a relaxed evening with friends under the stars
Recommended venue: Anwā Sunset Lounge.
Key features: Stunning sunsets, signature cocktails, shisha, laid-back music.
Budget range: Medium/High.
For connoisseurs of exquisite Middle Eastern cuisine
Recommended venue: Ninive.
Key Features: Fine dining, an intimate atmosphere, award-winning cuisine.
Budget range: High.
For families with children
Recommended venue: Al Hadheerah.
Key features: A vibrant show featuring camels and horses that will thrill children, a wide variety of food options.
Budget range: High.
The price of experiences vs. the price of food: It’s important to understand: at Bab Al Shams, you’re paying for a unique experience. If your main goal is to get the most out of the desert atmosphere, shows, and service, then the higher prices are justified." If you are looking exclusively for gastronomic discoveries comparable to the best restaurants in downtown Dubai, you may need to adjust your expectations.
Planning your visit: Practical tips
Now that you're inspired, let's move on to the details that will make your visit flawless.
Table reservations
We strongly recommend booking a table in advance, especially if you plan to dine at Al Hadheerah on weekends (Thursday through Saturday). It's best to book 1–2 weeks before your visit, requesting a table with a good view of the stage when making your reservation.
Getting there
The resort is located about 45 minutes' drive from downtown Dubai, and there is no public transportation available. The only options are taxi (including Uber/Careem services) or a private/rented car. The resort offers ample free parking and a valet service on site.
Plan your transportation costs: The remote location is part of the resort's charm, but it requires planning. Be sure to include the cost of a round-trip taxi ride in your budget (approximately 250–350 AED). We recommend checking current taxi fares in the apps before your trip.
Budget and prices
Be prepared for the fact that prices at Bab Al Shams fall into the "premium" segment. Here are some guidelines:
- Dinner show at Al Hadheerah: 399–499 AED per person (excluding drinks).
- Cocktails at Anwā Sunset Lounge: 80–110 AED.
- A glass of wine: from 75 AED.
The prices listed serve as a guideline at the time this guide was prepared. The hospitality industry in Dubai is highly dynamic, so we strongly recommend checking the resort’s official website or calling them before your visit to confirm current rates. This will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises and enable you to plan your budget with maximum precision.
Dress code and rules
The resort enforces a Smart Casual dress code. In the evening, men are expected to wear long trousers and closed-toe shoes, while women are encouraged to wear elegant dresses, skirts, or trousers. Beachwear and sportswear are not permitted in the restaurants. The resort welcomes families with children; however, age restrictions (21+) may apply in the lounge areas during the evening. Smoking, including shisha, is permitted only on outdoor terraces and in designated smoking areas.
Our verdict: Is a gastronomic journey to Bab Al Shams worth the money?
A visit to a restaurant at Bab Al Shams is always more than just a dinner—it’s like purchasing a ticket to a performance where the atmosphere, service, and unique experiences take center stage, with the cuisine serving as a superb complement.
Key advantages:
- Unmatched atmosphere: The magic of a genuine Arabian desert, which you won’t find anywhere in the city.
- Top-notch service: You’ll feel like a cherished guest from the very first to the very last minute.
- A spectacular show: Dining at Al Hadheerah is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Features to keep in mind:
- High price: Be prepared for a bill that’s higher than the Dubai average.
- Remote location: The trip requires both time and money to get there.
It’s the perfect destination for romantic dates, celebrating special occasions, families looking to surprise their children, and tourists seeking an authentic Arabian experience away from the skyscrapers. If you’re willing to trade the lights of the metropolis for a single evening of shimmering starlight and immerse yourself in a true Eastern fairy tale, rest assured: an evening spent at Bab Al Shams will become one of the most precious gems in your collection of Dubai experiences.
Comments