Dubai Evening Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Camel Ride & Sandboarding at Sunset
An adrenaline-tinged sunset safari that pairs dune bashing with a short camel ride and sandboarding across Dubai’s red dunes. This 3–4 hour evening trip focuses on dramatic light, quick thrills, and accessible desert experiences for most travelers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time your booking for sunset
Late-afternoon departures give you cooler temperatures and the best light for photos—avoid midday departures in summer.
Secure loose items
Phones, hats and sunglasses can fly during dune runs—use a pocket or a strap to avoid losses.
Hydrate before you go
Carry water and sip often; operators provide bottled water but bring your own if you sweat heavily.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Sand can be hot and abrasive; closed shoes make dune climbs and sandboarding safer and more comfortable.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small dune crests off main tracks that offer unobstructed sunset views for photography
- •Nearby salt flats and dry wadi edges that reveal contrasting textures at dusk
Wildlife
- •Arabian oryx (in protected nearby reserves)
- •Desert fox and occasional sand-colored lizards
Conservation Note
Licensed operators follow permitted routes to limit erosion and disturbance; travellers should avoid littering and stay with their group to protect fragile dune ecology.
The dunes lie across lands long traversed by Bedouin camel routes; modern safaris echo those travel traditions while converting them into guided experiences.
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Protects feet on hot, shifting sand and during short climbs.
Sun hat and UV sunglassesEssential
Prevents sunburn and reduces glare during late-afternoon sun.
Light windbreaker or fleece
Evening desert temperatures can drop quickly after sunset.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Useful for staying hydrated; operators provide bottled water but having your own is handy.
Common Questions
How long is the dune driving portion?
The dune drive typically lasts about 45 minutes with multiple short stops for photos and viewpoints.
Is the camel ride included and how long is it?
Yes—short camel rides are included; rides are usually brief (several minutes) and can sometimes be repeated depending on the operator.
Are there age or health restrictions?
Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious back or heart conditions; operators usually advise moderate fitness and may require notification at booking.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours are cancelled in unsafe weather; operators typically offer refunds or rescheduling if extreme conditions prevent safe dune driving.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness—able to climb short steep sand slopes and handle short bumpy rides in a 4x4
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