Our first interaction with the Tilal Liwa staff was a very unpleasant one, We called to confirm the status of our booking and it took two efforts from my end and the final one from my husband to confirm that we could check in late. We were already having our doubts about the place, but boy were we glad we decided to go to Tilal Liwa.

It was a never ending journey and as we edged closer to Tilal liwa, we were enveloped by unending desert strips on either side. It was a treat to the eyes and made us more excited towards our stay.

We arrived close to 8:00 pm, As soon as we entered the premises, we were left gaping with the beauty of Arabic architecture and the magical vibe that the place resonates off. We were checked into the Oasis room which overlooked the pool. Our room was breathtakingly beautiful. It was simple yet had such a comfortable feel to it, that you just wouldn't want to leave.


The staff decorated our room with petals and swans made from towels and ensured that our experience was one to be cherished. A bottle of bubbly, along with a heart shaped cake and fruit basket waited for us. We were beyond happy and excited. We were welcomed by a gust of wind as soon as we opened the door facing the pool. It was soaked in blue lights and the wind just cajoled our tired bodies to its hypnotizing rhythm.




We were soaking in the ambiance of the place when our stomachs growled with hunger. We headed to the Al Badiya restaurant and were very graciously welcomed by the staff who escorted us to a table specially reserved for us. Candle lit dinner with a glass of wine and a buffet spread (aahh, what more can we ask for).



The Buffet was a never ending array of contemporary and regional cuisine that would satisfy both vegetarians and especially non vegetarians. From seafood in varieties of curries, grilled, baked to meat, salads to pastas, the main course had something for everyone. The dessert section was an art in itself which was bound to leave you awestruck. The food, the ever smiling and ready to assist staff and impeccable service and hospitality made it a worthwhile stay.

The next day post breakfast and taking pictures we booked ourselves a desert bike ride and a camel ride with the recreation team. The desert bike ride (not as easy as it looks) was super fun. We also got caught in sand and were rescued by the team, but had so much fun inspite of the scorching heat

The Camel was made to sit on all fours so that I could sit on it (feeling guilty already), as I could sense it was forced to do so. Word of caution, be prepared when the camel stands up, as it stands first stands on front two and then the rear, so hold onto your dear life. It was an enjoyable ride, however as I saw flies around its mouth, and the camels vain attempts to shoo them off, I felt my heart drop down to my stomach. The sight of the person walking the camel in the hot sand, made me cut short the duration and I asked him to take me back.


Post that we decided to take a dip in the pool. The pool overlooked the desert and it was such an overwhelming view. A realization of how small we are, and how lucky we were to soak in the beauty of nature. The staff organised a romantic bubble bath for us, which just was just the perfect way to end our day.





Tilal Liwa is a perfect getaway, away from the hustle and bustle and away from the stress and noise.