Dubai Morning Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Sandboarding & Camel Trekking
Experience 4 hours of adrenaline and desert calm: dune bashing in a 4x4, sandboarding down red dunes, and a short camel trek across the Arabian sands. This morning safari delivers speed, landscape, and a quick cultural touchpoint outside Dubai.
The Experience
Before You Go
Secure loose gear
Use a wrist strap for cameras and zip pockets for phones — dune bashing tosses small items easily and sand is highly abrasive.
Hydrate before you go
Bring and drink water before and after the tour; guides supply bottled water, but desert heat depletes you faster than you expect.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Sand gets hot and coarse; closed-toe shoes protect feet for sandboarding and walking between dunes.
Listen to the guide
Dune routes change with wind; follow the guide’s instructions for safe boarding spots and camel handling.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pause at a higher dune for a sweeping sunrise view toward the city skyline — the contrast is striking.
- •Visit Al Marmoom or nearby camel farms for a quieter look at local breeding and racing traditions if your schedule allows.
Wildlife
- •Arabian oryx (in conservation areas)
- •Desert foxes and small lizards often seen near vegetated dune bases
Conservation Note
Stay on designated routes and avoid littering — protected pockets and rewilding projects nearby aim to preserve rare desert species and stabilize dunes.
The dunes sit on windblown deposits shaped over thousands of years; camels and Bedouin culture shaped human use of these deserts long before modern tourism.
What to Bring
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
High sun and reflective sand make sunscreen essential even in the morning.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Protects feet from hot, abrasive sand and provides traction for sandboarding.
Sunglasses and wide-brim hatEssential
Reduces glare and keeps sand out of eyes during windier stretches.
Light wind layer
Cool desert mornings or breezy dune tops can be unexpectedly cool; a thin layer is handy.
Common Questions
How long is the safari and what’s included?
The program runs about four hours and typically includes pick-up/drop-off in a 4x4, dune bashing, sandboarding, a short camel ride, bottled water, and a licensed guide.
Is dune bashing safe for children or pregnant travelers?
Dune bashing involves sudden movements and is not recommended for pregnant travelers or people with serious back or neck conditions; check with the operator about child seat options and age limits.
Can I sandboard if I’ve never done it before?
Yes — guides usually show a basic stance and pick a moderate slope for beginners; expect a short lesson and practice runs on gentler faces.
What should I wear and when is the best time?
Wear breathable, sun-protective clothing and closed shoes; morning tours avoid the midday heat and offer cleaner air and sharper light for photos.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness; you’ll sit for dune bashing, stand for sandboarding, and walk short distances for camel rides.
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