Travels
5-Star Staycation Spots Loved by Locals
Sometimes the perfect escape doesn’t require a passport. In a place like the UAE—where world-class luxury is part of everyday life—some of the most memorable escapes are found just minutes from home. Whether it’s a weekend to unplug, a midweek breather, or a milestone celebration, more and more residents are embracing the art of the staycation.
It’s easy to see why. With opulent resorts, serene beaches, and skyline views all within reach, the UAE offers experiences that rival any international destination—without the long-haul flights, airport queues, or time zone fatigue.
This guide curates some of the most beloved 5-star staycation spots that locals consistently return to—for their service, style, and unmistakable sense of retreat.
Here are the standout 5-star staycation spots worth experiencing for yourself:
The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah
Rooted in Sharjah’s cultural fabric, The Chedi Al Bait is more than a hotel—it’s a restored piece of history. With intimate courtyards, handcrafted details, and a spa steeped in ancient wellness traditions, this stay speaks to the senses. It’s a quiet, elegant, and intentional escape.
For those who value depth over display, this is where you go to breathe again.
The Chedi Al Bait
Jumeirah Al Naseem, Dubai
Coastal refinement in the heart of the city
Set along the shoreline with views of Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Al Naseem offers all the hallmarks of a luxury escape—without leaving the city. Interiors are breezy and modern, the dining is world-class, and the setting blends urban energy with coastal calm.
It’s ideal for couples, families, or professionals seeking sophistication with ease.
Jumeirah Al Naseem
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi
A Retreat Carved Into Silence
Tucked deep within the Liwa desert, Qasr Al Sarab isn’t just a resort—it’s a mirage of refined solitude. Designed to echo ancient Arabian forts, it pairs timeless architecture with modern, discreet service that never oversteps. Come here for stillness, for space, and for sunrises that quietly shift your perspective.
A destination that humbles, then heals.
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah, Ajman
Minimalist Luxury by the Sea
The Oberoi Al Zorah offers a quieter brand of indulgence. Floor-to-ceiling windows, generous space, and uninterrupted views of the coastline create a sense of calm that feels both rare and restorative.
A stay that invites you to do less—and feel more.
The Oberoi Beach Resort
The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah
Surrounded by a desert reserve and framed by mountains, this resort is a masterclass in balancing privacy and raw natural beauty. Whether you’re in your private villa watching gazelles pass at dawn or enjoying a spa ritual beneath the stars, this is where time slows and moments deepen.
Perfect for reflection, reconnection, and gentle indulgence.
The Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert
Conclusion
A staycation isn’t just a break from work or routine—it’s a quiet investment in well-being.
An invitation to breathe deeper, live slower, and reconnect with the spaces we often overlook.
With the level of luxury and hospitality we have access to, there’s no need to cross borders to feel renewed. Some of the finest experiences are right here—designed with care, delivered with excellence, and deeply appreciated by those who know where to look.
So whether it’s a weekend of stillness or celebration, the right place can shift something in you. And these 5-star stays? They’re built for exactly that.