Dubai: Talk of a desert experience and the first thing that comes to mind is a desert safari. If you’re a little more adventurous, you’ll probably go camping. But how about glamping?
What’s that, you may ask? Well, as Magda Alaszkiewicz, co-founder of Arabian Glamping, a company that has introduced the novel term to the UAE, explains, “Glamping is glamorous camping. It’s a hassle-free concept for anyone who wants to spend a magical time in the desert and do something different with family and friends. It’s a perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or escape your busy city life.”
Road trips
Alaszkiewicz, who set up Arabian Glamping with Magda Orzechowska in 2016, said, “It was our reaction to the market, really. We were solving our own problem, shared by so many. We love going on road trips and exploring the great Arabian outdoors and in particular the magnificent UAE desert. But we never liked roughing it in the middle of nowhere without access to our daily comforts. We wanted to create a boutique experience that would inspire people to head into the desert without giving up on the luxuries of everyday life.”
She said, “Truth is, Dubai already had so many very well established companies offering desert safaris and other outdoor attractions but no one was doing what we had in mind – a boutique and personalised desert experience tailored to the needs modern expats living across the UAE and tourists looking for a bit of outdoor luxury. Thus was born the idea to create chic and glamorous yet informal and joyful desert excursions for girls like us.”
She said Arabian Glamping’s services vary from overnight options to al fresco dining in the heart of the Arabian desert. “We’ve been lucky to be part of many beautiful special occasions, ranging from birthday parties and bachelorette nights, through large family and friends to proposals, anniversaries and post-wedding celebrations.”
She said guests can get transport and dune bashing services as well. “We partner with transportation and dune-bashing organisers and facilitate pick-ups and drop offs.” Prices for the glamorous Picnics start at Dh399 per person.
