Dubai in a Day: Premium Red Dunes Safari and City Highlights
Experience Dubai’s high-rise spectacle and the raw energy of red-dune dune bashing in one seamless 12‑hour day. This premium combo pairs a guided city tour with a late-afternoon desert safari, camel ride, sandboarding, live entertainment and a BBQ dinner.
The Experience
Before You Go
Beat the Heat
Schedule the desert segment for late afternoon to avoid midday temperatures and get the best light for photos.
Protect Against Sand and Sun
Bring high‑SPF sunscreen, lip balm, and wraparound sunglasses—sand reflects sunlight and can intensify exposure.
Prepare for Motion
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take preventative medication before the dune‑bashing portion; rides can be sharp and fast.
Respect Local Dress Codes
Wear modest clothing in public and bring a lightweight scarf for mosque visits and cooler desert evenings.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (quiet lanes for museum and photo stops)
- •Al Qudra Lakes—good for birdwatching if you can add an early morning visit
Wildlife
- •Desert fox (occasional, mostly nocturnal)
- •Free-roaming Arabian oryx in conservation zones or rewilding projects
Conservation Note
Dune ecosystems are fragile—stick to vehicle tracks, avoid disturbing flora and fauna, and choose operators that follow waste‑management practices.
Dubai grew from a 19th-century trading creek and pearling port; its desert culture shaped transport and hospitality traditions showcased in modern safari camps.
What to Bring
Sunglasses with UV protectionEssential
Blocks glare from sun and sand during both city and desert segments.
Light windbreaker or fleeceEssential
Desert evenings cool quickly after sunset, even in warm months.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Protects feet from hot sand, rough camp ground, and sandboarding approaches.
Motion sickness tablets
Useful for those sensitive to off-road dune bashing.
Common Questions
How long is the entire experience?
The tour runs about 12 hours (approximately 7–8 hours for the city portion and 4–5 hours for the desert, including transfers).
Is dune bashing safe?
Dune bashing is driven by experienced professionals in 4x4 vehicles; however it can be physically jarring—those with back, neck, or heart issues should avoid it.
What should I wear?
Modest, breathable clothing for daytime city stops; a light layer for the desert evening and closed-toe shoes for sand activities.
Are meals and drinks included?
Yes—the desert camp provides Arabic coffee and sweets on arrival and a BBQ buffet dinner with snacks and non‑alcoholic refreshments; check operator policy for alcoholic options.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
12 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness: short walks, getting on/off vehicles, standing for shows; not strenuous.
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