The rooftops of Abu Dhabi, its grand palaces, and the golden dunes of the desert have served as the backdrop for numerous films set in “otherworldly” locations, including the iconic Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Fans of Star Wars can discover the desert and golden planet of Jakku in a galaxy not so far away. Some scenes from Episode VII of the saga were filmed in the western region of Abu Dhabi, known as Al Dhafra. This area encompasses the world’s largest uninterrupted sand area, Rub’ al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, and the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes of Abu Dhabi created a truly unique landscape for certain scenes in the film.
The empty quarter and various activities to experience
For travelers seeking an authentic and immersive adventure, the Empty Quarter in Abu Dhabi is a must-see destination. Stunning both during the day and under a starry sky, this ever-evolving desert expanse boasts one of the world’s most luxurious hotels: the magnificent Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.
With towering dunes and impressive sand valleys, Abu Dhabi’s desert landscape is a playground for adventure and adrenaline lovers. Dune-bashing and sand surfing are fantastic ways to explore the vast desert and race across the seemingly endless red trails. For the more curious travelers, guided tours with experienced operators offer maximum fun with complete safety.
Most desert safaris include thrilling dunes, sandboarding, quad biking, falconry experiences, camel treks, visits to camel farms, and traditional meals under the stars.
Culture enthusiasts can opt for a safari tour that offers a taste of the Bedouin lifestyle, where you can enjoy Arabic food, traditional Arabic entertainment, and the experience of riding a camel.
There’s no need to worry about desert adventures: Abu Dhabi’s tour operators handle everything, including pick-up and drop-off services for their guests, no matter where they’re staying.
Abu dhabi’s al wathba fossil dunes reserve
A trip to Abu Dhabi isn’t complete without a visit to the Al Wathba Fossil Dunes, which also featured in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Here, you can take a step back in time by discovering over 1,700 fossil dunes that are more than four million years old. They can also be explored at night along illuminated trails stretching 3km through the natural wonders.
Along the way, you can enjoy music and light shows at the amphitheater, stop for a drink at food trucks, and admire art galleries. Moreover, there’s no better place to stargaze than the Al Sadeem Observatory, where experts teach you about the night sky.
To conclude the evening, a dinner at the Al Wathba Luxury Collection Hotel is a must, offering a wide range of delicious dishes along with panoramic views of the dunes.