Moon Retreat
Escape to Moon Retreat, a unique glamping destination in Sharjah's desert, offering private domes, pools, and unparalleled stargazing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Moon Retreat
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape to Moon Retreat, a unique glamping destination in Sharjah's desert, offering private domes, pools, and unparalleled stargazing.
"The most unique hotel in UAE, offering a dreamy couple's escape under the stars."
Pack for Self-Sufficiency
Bring all your food and drinks, as there are no on-site restaurants. Grilling is the main dining option. :shopping_bags:
Embrace the Digital Detox
Expect limited mobile signal and Wi-Fi. It's the perfect place to disconnect and relax. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Unique Dome Accommodations
Your private tent/dome
Sleep under the stars in stylish, climate-controlled domes offering a cozy glamping experience.
Private Pool Oasis
Outside your dome
Enjoy a temperature-controlled private pool, perfect for cooling off amidst the desert heat.
Desert Stargazing
Throughout the retreat
Experience breathtaking night skies far from city lights, offering a truly magical celestial display.
Self-Catering BBQ Experience
Designated BBQ area
Cook your own meals on provided charcoal grills, adding a hands-on element to your desert getaway.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Desert Adventure
Manage Expectations for Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for Self-Sufficiency
Bring all your food and drinks, as there are no on-site restaurants. Grilling is the main dining option. :shopping_bags:
Embrace the Digital Detox
Expect limited mobile signal and Wi-Fi. It's the perfect place to disconnect and relax. :iphone:
Book in Advance
This popular desert escape fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons. :calendar:
Bring Warm Layers
Desert nights can get surprisingly chilly, even after warm days. :cloud:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for Self-Sufficiency
Bring all your food and drinks, as there are no on-site restaurants. Grilling is the main dining option. :shopping_bags:
Embrace the Digital Detox
Expect limited mobile signal and Wi-Fi. It's the perfect place to disconnect and relax. :iphone:
Book in Advance
This popular desert escape fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons. :calendar:
Bring Warm Layers
Desert nights can get surprisingly chilly, even after warm days. :cloud:
Dust Allergy Alert
If you have dust allergies, be aware that the desert environment can be dusty. :zzz:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Moon Retreat offers a unique desert glamping experience with private pools and domes, praised for its serene atmosphere and stargazing opportunities. However, some guests find it overpriced for the amenities, citing dust issues and the self-catering model as drawbacks. The lack of on-site dining and limited connectivity are key considerations for potential visitors.
"We stayed in a tent with a private pool, but the rooms looked much better in the pictures than in reality. In the end, it was basically just a tent with furniture inside. It felt dusty both inside and outside; I started sneezing immediately as I’m allergic to dust.
The pool was okay — temperature-controlled.
One of the biggest surprises after booking was discovering that there is no restaurant or cafe on site. Guests are expected to cook the food on a charcoal grill. They just provide raw meet and vegetables at a good restaurant price. The grill setup was quite messy, with black fumes and charcoal dust blowing around the dining area. As I'm not a fan of BBQ the meet was burned outside and still raw inside 🙈
For what we paid, almost 4,000 AED, the experience felt significantly overpriced. Aside from the comfortable bed and the pool, everything else felt like basic camping — which you could easily do on your own for free.
There isn’t much to do except walk around and stargaze at night. If you don’t enjoy cooking your own BBQ, this place is definitely not for you.
In the morning, once the sun is up, the tent gets very hot inside, and the AC needs to run at full power to keep it more or less comfortable.
For this price you can get much better experience somewhere else."
Roman K.
"had a truly wonderful experience at Moon Retreat—one of the most beautiful destinations within the Sharjah Collection. The peaceful and serene atmosphere made my stay incredibly relaxing and enjoyable. I was especially impressed with the excellent service and the well-equipped barbecue facilities, perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Everything was prepared with great care and attention to detail."
Ghudayyer Almuaini
"An amazing stay! the perfect escape from the city. A quiet, serene place where the beauty of nature surrounds you day and night. The food, the simplicity of the dome’s interior, and the stunning infinity pool all created a truly memorable experience.
The staff were incredibly friendly while still being perfectly professional. Truly one of the best places I’ve ever visited."
Samar Dahdouh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moon Retreat is located in the Mleiha desert, about a 1.5-hour drive from Dubai. You'll need your own vehicle or arrange private transport. GPS is recommended as mobile signal can be spotty. +1
Public transport options are very limited for reaching Moon Retreat. It's best to drive yourself or book a private transfer.
The drive from Dubai to Moon Retreat is approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Follow GPS navigation to Mleiha Desert. Signs might be minimal once you're in the desert area, so relying on your navigation app is key.
While not explicitly stated, it's advisable to contact the retreat directly to inquire about potential transfer services or recommended local providers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Check-in and check-out times are typically standard for hotels, but it's best to confirm directly with Moon Retreat when booking to ensure you have the most accurate information.
Yes, advance booking is highly recommended as Moon Retreat is a popular destination and accommodations can sell out quickly.
Bookings usually include your dome accommodation, access to your private pool, and BBQ facilities. Food and drinks are typically not included and must be brought by guests.
There are no specific age restrictions mentioned, but it's generally geared towards couples or families looking for a unique desert experience.
Extension possibilities depend on availability. It's best to inquire directly with the retreat management if you wish to extend your stay.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include relaxing by your private pool, stargazing, enjoying the desert scenery, and cooking on the BBQ. Some guests have enjoyed sunrise hikes.
Connectivity is limited at Moon Retreat, which is part of its appeal for a digital detox. Expect minimal to no mobile signal or Wi-Fi.
The domes are uniquely designed, climate-controlled, and offer a comfortable glamping experience with private pools and BBQ facilities. +1
Yes, families can enjoy the unique glamping experience, private pool, and outdoor activities. It offers a different kind of adventure for children.
Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended. Pack layers for cooler evenings and swimwear for the pool.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no on-site restaurants or cafes. Guests are expected to bring their own food and utilize the provided BBQ facilities.
You can bring any food you like to grill. The retreat provides raw meat and vegetables, but guests often bring their preferred ingredients.
While not explicitly stated, it's common for glamping accommodations to have mini-fridges. It's best to confirm this with the retreat directly.
Due to the remote desert location, food delivery services are unlikely to be available. Bringing your own food is the most reliable option.
The retreat provides charcoal grills. Guests are responsible for preparing and cooking their food on these facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique dome structures, private pools, and the vast desert landscape at sunrise and sunset offer stunning photographic opportunities. +1
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the retreat management before flying a drone.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for desert photography. +1
Absolutely! The clear desert skies offer incredible opportunities for astrophotography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, be mindful of other guests' privacy and any specific rules set by the retreat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be well-prepared for the self-catering aspect. Ensure you pack plenty of kid-friendly food options and snacks, as well as drinks. The lack of on-site dining means you'll be responsible for all meals. Also, be mindful of the limited connectivity, which can be a blessing for family bonding but might require managing expectations for older children who are used to constant online access.
💑 Couples Seeking Romance
The tranquil environment allows couples to disconnect from daily stresses and reconnect with each other. The self-catering aspect can also be a fun, collaborative activity, preparing a meal together under the stars. It's a unique experience that fosters a sense of shared adventure and peaceful togetherness.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Short Stays
For a day trip, consider arriving mid-afternoon to maximize your time by the pool and for sunset views. Ensure you have all your food and drinks packed, as you won't have access to any facilities once you arrive. This short stay offers a refreshing break and a memorable experience of the Sharjah desert.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Glamping Experience at Moon Retreat
While the domes offer a luxurious feel, the retreat emphasizes a self-sufficient stay. This means guests are expected to bring their own food and drinks, as there are no on-site restaurants or cafes. The provided BBQ facilities encourage a hands-on culinary experience, turning meal preparation into part of the adventure. This approach contributes to the feeling of being truly away from it all, fostering a sense of independence and connection with the natural surroundings.
Many visitors highlight the peaceful and serene atmosphere as a major draw. The remote desert location ensures minimal noise and light pollution, making it ideal for stargazing and unwinding. The retreat is part of the Sharjah Collection, known for offering unique experiences that blend luxury with nature.
Navigating the Desert Environment
Desert nights can bring a significant drop in temperature, so packing warm layers is essential for enjoying the evenings comfortably, particularly for stargazing. The remoteness of the location also means that mobile signal and Wi-Fi can be unreliable or non-existent. This is often seen as a positive aspect, encouraging guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in the experience.
For those with dust allergies, the desert environment might pose a challenge. Some reviews mention dustiness both inside and outside the accommodations, leading to discomfort for sensitive individuals.
Dining and Culinary Experience
Guests often bring raw meats, vegetables, and other ingredients to prepare their meals. While some find this setup enjoyable and a unique part of the desert adventure, others have noted that the BBQ process can be messy, with charcoal dust and fumes. The quality of the cooked food also depends heavily on the guest's grilling skills.
For those who are not keen on cooking their own meals, or who prefer a more conventional dining experience, this aspect of Moon Retreat might be a significant consideration. It's important to be prepared for this self-sufficient culinary approach to fully enjoy the stay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit