Inside Ezba: Where sustainability meets tradition in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Desert
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara champions immersive, sustainable desert experiences
DUBAI: In an era driven by speed, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in Abu Dhabi invites visitors to step into a slower rhythm through Ezba – the resort’s cultural and educational centre.
Created as a tribute to the spirit of the UAE’s founding father, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Ezba is a manifestation of heritage, sustainability, and immersive experience.
Tucked into the golden dunes of the Liwa Desert, Ezba embraces the global slow travel movement and offers a genuine connection to the traditions that shaped Emirati life. Through shared experiences such as Arabic coffee in a traditional majlis and weaving crafts with local artisans, guests are encouraged to appreciate the depth and richness of Bedouin culture.
What is Ezba?
Ezba operates on four main pillars – history, culture, nature, and immersive learning. Far from being a static display of heritage, it offers a living, breathing encounter with the past and present. Visitors engage in hands-on activities that reflect the daily lives of Bedouin communities, allowing for a deeper understanding of how people thrived in one of the harshest environments on Earth.
From Sadu weaving to intricate Talli embroidery, guests are encouraged to slow down and absorb the artistry behind these centuries-old practices. These authentic encounters are not only culturally enriching but also foster personal reflection and mindfulness – core elements of slow travel.
How is sustainability practised?
Ezba is built around the principle that sustainability is not a concept but a lifestyle. Every element has been designed to support the surrounding desert ecosystem. A thriving on-site greenhouse produces more than 2,000 kilograms of herbs, vegetables, and dates each year, reinforcing the farm-to-table experience and reducing dependency on external sourcing.
Environmental stewardship is also seen in Ezba’s robust composting system, which diverts over 34,000 kilograms of organic waste annually. This waste is transformed into nutrient-rich mulch that revitalises the arid landscape. Solar energy powers many of Ezba’s operations, while groundwater conservation ensures the careful use of natural resources. Regenerative landscaping further aids the revival of native plant life and the enhancement of biodiversity.
What wildlife can visitors encounter?
Wildlife forms an integral part of Ezba’s storytelling. Camels, saluki dogs, and falcons – each with their unique place in Bedouin survival and cultural identity – are woven into the guest experience. Visitors are invited to learn about their historical and continuing relevance through guided sessions and interactions.
Ezba also contributes significantly to regional conservation. It offers a sanctuary for endangered species like the Arabian oryx and Arabian gazelle, supporting UAE-led efforts to reintroduce these creatures into the wild. These protected zones act as stepping stones for their return, strengthening the desert’s fragile biodiversity.
The centre’s outreach goes beyond its scenic dunes. With more than 12,000 guests educated each year on sustainable living in the desert, Ezba plays an important role in shaping awareness and appreciation for environmental conservation and cultural heritage.
General Manager of Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Jean-Paul Dantil, describes Ezba as the embodiment of slow travel ideals. “It’s a place where guests can immerse themselves deeply in the traditions, nature, and rhythms of the desert,” he says. “Through Ezba, we pride ourselves on fostering learning, reflection, and reconnection, where every experience encourages purpose, and a lasting appreciation for sustainability and heritage.”
In the heart of the Empty Quarter, Ezba stands as an inspiring reminder of how tradition and innovation can co-exist. The destination invites travellers to pause, observe, and engage with a world where respect for nature, culture, and community nurtures a thriving desert life.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit the official website or call Anantara’s Central Reservations Office at +971 (0) 2 895 8700.