Rugged hills, muted red sands and natural wind-sculpted formations. The Mleiha region in the United Arab Emirates is otherworldly enough on its own. Then you come across a cluster of futuristic, prismatic domes, and you wonder where you really are. The Mysk Moon Retreat is a luxury glamping destination, offering a celestial experience deep in the Sharjah desert.

Set in the shadows of Fossil Rock, an ancient rock formation embedded with marine fossils, the geodesic domes of Mysk Moon Retreat come with unimpeded views of Jebel Faya, the limestone hill that contains the archaeological remains of one of the most ancient human settlements outside of Africa.

The setting is pristine and isolated, a refuge from the urban landscape of nearby Sharjah just 50 km to the west. With that said, you won’t be roughing it at this retreat. Each of the domes comes with a private terrace equipped with pre-installed gas-fired barbeque, a toilet with shower, and individual air conditioning. Many of them even come with their own temperature-controlled pools.

During the day, guests will be able to explore the ancient sights of Fossil Rock, or go dune bashing and horseback riding across the desert. At night, guests will be treated to clear skies, with a bright canopy of stars - the kind of sight you could never get in the city.

Although you won’t find any cafes or restaurants on site, you will be able to select your meals with special options for vegetarians while you’re booking. Prices start at USD 481.90 on a half board basis for domes without a pool.

Travellers to Sharjah must conduct a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure. All passengers will receive another test upon arrival. UAE nationals and children under 12 years old are exempt from the test. All travellers from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka must take the PCR test within 48 hours of departure as well as a rapid PCR test within six hours, and another test upon arrival. Test results for travellers from Bangladesh, Egypt, Pakistan, Sudan, Lebanon, Sri Lanka, Nepal and India should have a QR code on it.