Where is it? In the desert, a 45-minute hop from downtown Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. Best reached in the comfort of a four-wheel-drive vehicle, Bab Al Shams offers a luxurious Arabian experience, yet one far removed from the glitzy urbanity of modern Dubai. Owned by the award-winning Jumeirah Group - its other properties include the Burj Al Arab and the opulent Madinat Jumeirah - Bab Al Shams offers sun, sand and serenity in a traditional fort-like setting. An Arabian adventure then? Absolutely. But forget the tents, Bab Al Shams (which means Gateway to the Sun) has 115 rooms (including 10 suites) in 16 double-storey sand-coloured buildings connected by a series of secluded winding paths, quiet courtyards and refreshing pools, all designed to beat the desert heat. What are the rooms like? Gorgeous in the true sense of the word. The atmosphere is rich and slightly decadent, with dark wood and sandstone alcoves featuring brightly coloured rugs, furnishings, ornate iron lamps and Arabian glasswork, alongside hi-tech conveniences such as high-speed internet connections and satellite television. The bathrooms ooze old-world ambience, but come complete with rain shower, deep bathtub and such goodies as sea salts and sandalwood lotion. Ideal for getting away from it all? Undoubtedly. Enjoy Arabian hospitality at the open-air Al Sarab Rooftop Bar while enjoying spectacular views over the desert. Recline on a plump cushion and sip a glass of fresh mint tea. Shisha pipes are also on the menu for those who like to indulge in an exotic smoke. What's the best thing about the place? Wandering the maze of courtyards with their hidden stairwells, private pools and carved benches perfect for contemplation. Or taking a dip in the spectacular emerald-green infinity pool, which drops away over the golden sand dunes. Where do we eat? The secluded Al Forsan restaurant lets you dine indoors or in a majlis-style courtyard overlooking a palm grove. For serious romance, head out at sunset along a path lit by burning torches to Al Hadheerah, a tented restaurant in the desert. Enjoy Arabic entertainment - live bands, belly dancers, falconry - while tucking into your spit roasts and Arab bread served hot from the oven. What else is there to do? It wouldn't be a desert adventure without a camel ride at sunset. Or if that's too uncomfortable, saddle up a horse Arabian prince-style and gallop off into the wilderness. You can also drive into the desert for a touch of dune bashing or rest at the Satori Spa, with its indoor garden, outdoor showers and tinkling wind chimes. What's the bottom line? Booked online, a deluxe room costs 900 dirhams ($1,900) a night; a deluxe room with a balcony or garden 1,100 dirhams; and a junior suite 2,400 dirhams. Visit www.babal shams.com for more details.