It’s there in case you feel inspired to capture what you see, we are told as we arrive in our spacious, Bedouin-themed accommodation.
As the double doors swing open on to a private infinity pool and undulating tree-dotted dunes beyond, the logic swiftly becomes apparent.
Okay, so the animals and the reservation within which Al Maha is located are protected. Having left our car just inside the security gate – it allows entry to only those with a reservation - we are driven by a guide along a winding, sand-encroached private road to the main building where equally enthusiastic colleagues greet us.
Through a heavy wooden door, there’s an Arabic meets colonial feel to the lobby, leading off one side to a lounge and a gift shop filled with art, antiquities and a few sparkly souvenirs.
Further on there’s a refreshment area where afternoon tea, coffee and other goodies are served and, beyond that, a bar with a balcony offering uncluttered views across the dunes towards the Hajar Mountains that fringe Oman.
Head downstairs and the views prevail from the terrace of the Al Diwaan restaurant. You can sit inside, but the tranquility and film-set expanse make for quiet, yet spectacular conversation pieces.
The food here is as stunning as the beautifully isolated setting. Classic and innovative European cuisine alongside traditional Arabic, all with theatre and a twist, and attentive yet unobtrusive full service make for a very special dining experience.
Of course, with such a place as Al Maha – meaning the oryx - the temptation is to match all the indulgence with pure relaxation.
But allow yourself to leave the privacy of your five-star digs, with that impossibly comfy bed and its ‘pillow menu’, to try the activities on offer and you’ll make so much more of the desert experience.
The camel ride leaves in time for sundown drinks on the dunes – Sabna was one of the better-behaved camels this writer has come across in several desert visits down the years and did a very civilised job in getting us to the perch on time.
Among these sunrise pursuits, the horse riding demands a decent level of experience, as the stable features retired but still spirited Arabian racers and polo ponies.
The falconry display requires you to occasionally duck as a handsome selection of birds, including a vociferous Desert Eagle Owl, demonstrate their appetite and breakfast-motivated skills for guests and Al Maha’s expert and witty handlers.
All this also means you get to see the sun arrive on the horizon to warm this magnificent setting again and entice you into desert walks.
Action and relaxation
The resort also organises desert drives with adrenalin-inducing dune bashing, wildlife drives and native Ghaf tree and nature walks for those seeking to explore further afield with an expert guide.
Likewise, there’s knowledge on hand if you decide to attempt the noble sport of archery, once a necessity for the desert’s original Bedouin inhabitants as they sought their supper. Luckily, what with our varying degrees of accuracy, the sand doesn’t have nerve endings.
Two activities per person per night ‘s stay are included in the suite rate, although some choices are obviously subject to wind and weather patterns.
There’s much less risk of sporting embarrassment or isobar issues at the Timeless Spa, where you find a tempting range of pampering opportunities, hydro-therapy and Rasoul treatments, as well as a jacuzzi, gym, steam room and sauna.
This is also where you’ll find a larger infinity pool that seems to pour into the desert beyond, much like those private versions at the suites themselves.
The camera and the brain soaked up the perfect and enchanting scenery instead as a duo of gazelles overcame shyness to graze a little closer to the decking and mischievous birds ducked into the room to steal cashews from the coffee table.
With neighbours like these, who would want to move a muscle?
FACTFILE:
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, is around one hour from Dubai International Airport and direct flights from the UK with Emirates and British Airways. Check out www.skyscanner.net for prices.
To discover more about the amazing Al Maha view www.al-maha.com
The resort doesn’t accommodate children under the age of 10.