Dubai Self-Drive Quad Biking, Sandboarding & Camel Ride in the Red Dunes
Drive across red sand ridges, sandboard steep faces and take a camel ride before unwinding in a Bedouin-style camp. This 4-hour desert adventure blends adrenaline with cultural touches and easy logistics.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time your visit to avoid peak heat
Book early morning or late afternoon departures; mid‑day temperatures can be extreme in summer.
Bring and drink water
Carry at least 1–1.5 liters per person for this short tour — the desert dehydrates quickly.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Light hiking or sport shoes give protection and traction on hot, shifting sand during quad and sandboard sections.
Follow the guide on dunes
Throttle control and line choice matter on soft sand — obey instructions to reduce risk of rollovers or getting stuck.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Climb a nearby dune ridge for unobstructed sunrise views away from the camp crowds
- •Try a short off-track walk at dusk to find compact footprints and small desert plants up close
Wildlife
- •Desert lark (and other small passerines)
- •Desert fox and small nocturnal mammals may be present but are rarely seen during daytime tours
Conservation Note
Tour operators typically operate on fragile dune ecosystems; stick to designated tracks, avoid leaving litter and follow guides to limit erosion and disturbance.
The area around Dubai’s red dunes has long been traversed by Bedouin communities; camels and falconry were central to survival and culture before oil-era development.
What to Bring
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Protects feet from hot sand and provides traction when mounting vehicles and camels.
Sunscreen SPF 30+Essential
High sun exposure and reflection off sand make reliable sun protection essential.
Sunglasses and brimmed hatEssential
Reduces glare and helps with wind-driven sand during rides and at the camp.
Light windbreaker or scarf
Evenings can be cool in winter; a light layer blocks wind and fine sand.
Common Questions
Do I need a driver’s license to self-drive the quad?
Most operators provide a safety briefing and allow licensed and non-licensed participants to ride under supervision, but confirm requirements when booking; minors may be restricted.
How long is the quad biking portion?
The self-drive quad segment is approximately one hour, embedded within the four-hour tour including transfers and camp time.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes — the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle; you’ll select your pickup point at booking.
Are refreshments provided at the camp?
Yes — the camp serves Arabic coffee, dates, Arabic sweets, soft drinks and mineral water as part of the experience.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to mount camels, handle a quad for an hour and walk short stretches on soft sand.
Ready to Explore Dubai?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now