Family-friendly Staycation: Tilal Liwa Hotel

Nestled three hours away from Dubai on the edge of the stunning Rub’ Al Khali desert is Tilal Liwa Hotel, a secluded family resort that packs in great food, adventurous desert activities, and lazy days by the pool – if that’s what you’re looking for. The minute you enter this hotel, you are greeted with Arabesque vibes and a cup of gahwa. Lanterns hang high from the ceiling over a water feature comprising large pots, and this is where the photo ops begin. Few steps ahead, and you get a glimpse of the desert resort, courtyard and swimming pool, sited a floor below.

ACCOMODATION

There’s nothing we love more than a suite with direct access to a pool or the beach. At Tilal Liwa, the Oasis Room is furnished with a plush bed that you sink into the minute you get under the sheets; tea and coffee making facilities, and sun loungers right outside your terrace – by the pool. The two-story resort is home to various rooms and suites, most of which offer either views of the courtyard, desert, or swimming pool.

DINING

Breakfast, lunch and dinner takes place at Al Badiya Restaurant, the resort’s all-day dining venue. The calm space offers a wide selection of contemporary and regional dishes to suit all palettes. For breakfast, begin with a plate of fresh fruit, followed by cold cuts, or eggs made to your liking. Other dishes range from Indian to Chinese cuisine, alongside Arabic favourites including foul medames. The lunch buffet features a pasta station, and everything from roast chicken to biryani, steamed fish, noodles, and curries. Complete your meal with the extensive selection of desserts and a cup of chamomile or your favourite tea.You can’t miss appetisers such as the muhammara (roasted red pepper and walnut dip), Waldorf salad, buttered vegetable tempura, and their soup of the day (we tried lentil, and crab and corn, for dinner. Treat yourself to steak, steamed vegetables, salmon, curries and more for mains, followed by pudding or cheese. We didn’t get a chance to try the other culinary offerings, but some available include a BBQ buffet at Al Dhafra Oasis (majlis-style dining), Al Liwan for poolside bites, and Layali for cocktails and karaoke.

ACTIVITIES

Those looking for an adventurous activity can try sand boarding, dune bashing, cycling through the desert, quad biking, horseback riding, and safaris. Little ones will love mingling with children at the Kid’s Club, playing a game at the giant chess board, and a visit to the camel farm.