Dubai Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Sandboarding & Bedouin Camp Experience
Leave Dubai’s skyline for wave-like red dunes where dune-bashing, sandboarding and a Bedouin-style camp converge. This five-hour safari pairs adrenaline with cultural evening entertainment and practical ease of pickup and drop-off.
The Experience
Before You Go
Stay hydrated and carry water
Bring at least 1–2 liters; the desert dries you out quickly, especially before and after sunset.
Protect against sun and sand
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brim hat—sand reflects sunlight and temperatures can remain high.
Prepare for vehicle motion
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take a remedy before dune bashing; the ride includes steep climbs and sudden drops.
Choose sturdy footwear
Closed-toe shoes with good tread make moving on hot, shifting sand easier and protect from heat and abrasive grains.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ask to stop at a high ridge for sunset photos away from the main camp for unobstructed horizon shots.
- •If available, a brief camel-handling demonstration offers close-up insight into traditional animal handling beyond a short ride.
Wildlife
- •Desert fox (red fox)
- •Desert lark and other hardy passerines
Conservation Note
Choose operators that use marked tracks and limit high-frequency routes to reduce dune erosion; avoid littering and do not disturb wildlife or camel handlers.
The dunes around Dubai are part of Arabia’s shifting sands long traversed by nomadic Bedouin routes; modern safaris borrow aspects of Bedouin hospitality to present food, music and crafts to visitors.
What to Bring
Sun hat or buffEssential
Shields your face and neck from intense desert sun and blowing sand.
Sunglasses (UV-rated)Essential
Protects eyes from glare off the sand and during sunset photography.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Makes walking on hot, loose sand safer and more comfortable than sandals.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated throughout the five-hour outing; many operations offer refills.
Common Questions
Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes—hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned 4x4 is typically included; confirm your pickup point when booking.
Are activities like quad biking and sandboarding included or extra?
Sandboarding is commonly included; quad biking is often optional and may carry an additional fee or be offered as a timed add-on.
Is the experience safe for children and pregnant guests?
Children can usually join, but the operator advises that pregnant guests and people with serious back or heart conditions avoid dune bashing due to the vehicle motion.
What should I wear to the camp in the evening?
Wear light, breathable layers that cover arms and legs for sun protection and cooler desert evenings; modest clothing is recommended for cultural respect.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels but expect jostling during dune bashing; some walking on sand is required for activities like sandboarding and camel rides.
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