Where the desert remembers your name
Bespoke weddings, corporate retreats and cultural evenings at Khayal Al Sahra Camp — curated by women, rooted in Emirati heritage, crafted for guests who notice the details.
The #1 luxury desert camp in Abu Dhabi
Founded in 2012 by Tabassum Mohammad Afzal, Sparkling Sandset is a proudly women-owned hospitality house, specialising in bespoke desert weddings, private celebrations, corporate retreats and cultural evenings at Khayal Al Sahra Camp in Al Khatim. Over 500 events curated. 85% of our guests return — because every detail is felt, never staged.
More About UsA signature for every occasion
More than an event - an heirloom evening
From majlis seating under the stars to live cultural performances and full-service event management, every Sparkling Sandset experience is built end-to-end by our on-site team.
- ◆Heritage Souvenirs & Desert Keepsakes
- ◆On-Site Event Management & Camp Hospitality
- ◆Cultural Performances & Desert Entertainment
- ◆Luxury Desert Camp Experiences
More to experience
Henna, birthdays, brand nights — curated by hand
A glimpse into the range of evenings we've shaped — from intimate teepee birthdays to cultural pop-ups, heritage majlis corners, and live Emirati food stations.
A trained, in-house team — never freelance hand-offs
From the welcome with bukhoor to the final farewell, every guest is hosted by our own on-site crew. Over 40 trained hospitality staff, photographers, performers, and event managers — all coordinated by a single dedicated planner.
Voices from the dunes
“An amazing place for a desert adventure. Sparkling Sandset offers an experience as per our needs and they've given the best service. I would highly recommend groups who are looking for an exclusive luxury experience in Abu Dhabi.”
“Sparkling Sandset truly surprised me with its hospitality. From the moment I arrived, the staff was warm, polite, and attentive to every detail. The majlis seating was beautifully arranged, the lighting created a lovely atmosphere, and the view of the dunes was breathtaking.”
“Visited Sparkling Sandset during my trip to Abu Dhabi and absolutely loved it. It gave me a true desert experience without feeling commercial or crowded. The camp is set up beautifully, the activities were enjoyable, and the staff made sure everyone felt taken care of. The sunset over the dunes was the highlight of my evening.”
“I visited during my trip to Abu Dhabi and found it to be a calm and pleasant experience. The team was welcoming, and the whole area was well kept. It's not a flashy place, but it's comfortable and gives you a quiet desert feel.”
“One of the best desert camps I've visited in the UAE. The place has a stunning setup, friendly staff, and a very calm vibe. Loved the bonfire area and the way everything was arranged. Great value for money and a must-visit in Al Khatim.”
“I had a wonderful evening at Sparkling Sandset Desert Camp. I visited with my family, and everyone from kids to elders enjoyed it. The seating setup was beautiful, the ambience was peaceful, and the staff went out of their way to make sure we were comfortable.”
“Came here with a group of friends for an evening plan. The camp was easy to find and had a chill, laid-back vibe. The food was good, and the staff made sure everything ran smoothly. The bonfire setup was a nice touch and good for small groups.”
“Good place for a simple and relaxed desert experience. Everything was arranged well and felt easygoing. The team made sure guests were comfortable, and the lighting around the camp looked nice after dark.”
“I recently visited Sparkling Sandset Desert Camp in Abu Dhabi, and it turned out to be one of the most thoughtfully curated luxury desert experiences I've had in the UAE. Every detail — from the welcome to the cultural performances — felt intentional.”
“If you love photography or beautiful setups, this camp is perfect. Sparkling Sandset is incredibly aesthetic, with perfectly lit seating areas, cosy carpets, and wide-open dunes all around. Every corner looks like it's been curated for a memorable evening.”
“If someone is searching for the best desert camp Abu Dhabi, Sparkling Sandset should be at the top of the list. The layout, lighting, and overall vibe of the camp make it perfect for families, tourists, or even couples looking for a quiet evening. This is one of the few Abu Dhabi desert camps that feels both authentic and comfortable.”
“Want to feel the real desert with magical beauty of sand and dunes — highly recommended.”
“The camp was easy to find and well maintained. The staff were polite and well trained. The evening went by smoothly — peaceful and well managed.”
Answers, before you ask
What is Sparkling Sandset?+
Sparkling Sandset is a luxury desert camp and events company in Abu Dhabi, UAE, founded in 2012 by Tabassum Mohammad Afzal. Based at Khayal Al Sahra Camp in Al Khatim, we design bespoke desert weddings, corporate events, cultural nights, private dining, and brand activations across the UAE.
RelatedAbout Sparkling Sandset · All experiences
Where is Sparkling Sandset located?+
Sparkling Sandset operates from Khayal Al Sahra Camp in Al Khatim, Barma North, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The camp is approximately 45 minutes from Abu Dhabi city and 90 minutes from Dubai by road. GPS coordinates: 24.1302° N, 55.3406° E.
RelatedGet directions & contact
How do I book a desert event or experience with Sparkling Sandset?+
To book, WhatsApp +971 55 320 7631, email sparklingsandset@gmail.com, or submit the enquiry form at sparklingsandset.com/contact. We respond within 24 hours with a tailored proposal. Book at least 2 weeks in advance for small events and 4–6 weeks ahead for weddings or large corporate gatherings.
RelatedSend an enquiry · Design your experience
What types of events does Sparkling Sandset organise?+
Sparkling Sandset organises desert weddings, corporate offsites and team-building, birthday and anniversary celebrations, cultural and heritage nights, private desert dining, desert safaris, henna nights, national day celebrations, and pharmaceutical or brand activations across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.
RelatedDesert weddings · Corporate events · Cultural programs
How much does a desert wedding cost in Abu Dhabi?+
Desert wedding packages at Sparkling Sandset start from AED 5,000 for intimate setups (up to 20 guests) and range up to AED 50,000+ for full-scale weddings with complete décor, catering, entertainment, photography, and VIP hospitality. Average mid-range packages for 50–80 guests typically fall between AED 18,000 and AED 30,000.
RelatedWedding experiences · Request a quote
What locations does Sparkling Sandset cover?+
Sparkling Sandset primarily operates at Khayal Al Sahra Camp in Al Khatim, Abu Dhabi, and also delivers events across Dubai, Sharjah, Al Ain, Ras Al Khaimah, and other UAE emirates, including desert, beachfront, rooftop, and indoor venues.
RelatedAll experiences · Contact our planners
Does Sparkling Sandset provide catering for desert events?+
Yes. Sparkling Sandset provides full event catering, including traditional Emirati cuisine, Arabic mezze, live BBQ and shawarma stations, Indian, Lebanese, and international menus, plus vegetarian, vegan, and Jain options — all tailored to your event theme and dietary requirements.
RelatedSee our experiences
Can Sparkling Sandset arrange cultural performances and entertainment?+
Yes. Sparkling Sandset curates authentic cultural entertainment, including Yola and Ayyala dance, Tanoura and Sufi performers, fire and LED shows, henna artists, falconry displays, live Arabic oud and percussion, camel rides, and traditional Emirati coffee service.
RelatedCultural programs · Watch our films
How early should I book my desert event?+
Book at least 2 weeks ahead for small events. For weddings, large corporate events, or peak UAE season (October to March), book 6–8 weeks ahead to secure your preferred date, dunes, and full production crew.
RelatedStart your enquiry
Is Sparkling Sandset suitable for families and children?+
Yes. The camp is family-friendly with shaded majlis seating, kid-safe camel and pony rides, sandboarding, henna for children, and supervised activities. Highchairs and child-friendly menus are available on request.
RelatedFamily experiences · Family event videos
What is the best time of year to visit a desert camp in Abu Dhabi?+
The best time to visit a desert camp in Abu Dhabi is from October to April, when daytime temperatures range between 20°C and 32°C and evenings are cool. Sparkling Sandset operates year-round, with shaded majlis, cooling fans, and climate-controlled tents available during summer.
RelatedRead our blog
How many years of experience does Sparkling Sandset have?+
Sparkling Sandset has 14+ years of experience in luxury desert events, having been founded in 2012. The team has delivered 500+ events across the UAE for private clients, corporates, and international brands.
RelatedOur story