Morning Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Camel Ride & Sandboarding in Lahbab
Start your day on the red dunes of Lahbab with a four-hour morning safari that combines high-adrenaline dune bashing, a calm camel encounter, and hands-on sandboarding. This guided tour includes hotel pickup, refreshments, and instruction for all activities.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate before and during the trip
Carry and sip water—desert air is dry and mornings can dehydrate you faster than you expect.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Sand can be hot and rolling; sturdy shoes protect your feet while climbing dunes or boarding.
Motion-sickness caution
Dune bashing involves rapid climbs and drops; if you are prone to motion sickness take an antiemetic beforehand.
Protect your gear
Use straps for cameras and phones; loose items can be lost in spins or dropped on dunes.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Climb a quieter ridge at first light for expansive sunrise silhouettes and cooler sand for photos
- •Stop briefly at a shaded dune saddle—guides know small pockets where native larks and desert plants appear after rare rains
Wildlife
- •Arabian oryx (in protected or distant sightings)
- •Desert fox or small nocturnal fox species tracks
Conservation Note
Dune ecosystems are fragile—stay on guided routes, avoid off-trail driving, and pack out all waste to reduce erosion and preserve habitat.
This part of the UAE was traversed by Bedouin traders; camels and trade wells shaped routes long before tourism brought vehicle-based safaris.
What to Bring
Reusable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated without adding plastic waste during the morning heat.
Sunscreen SPF 30+Essential
High UVA/UVB protection is crucial under direct desert sun even at dawn.
Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on shifting sand and protects feet during climbs and sandboarding.
Lightweight wind layer
Early mornings can be cool—bring a breathable layer for the ride back to the vehicle.
Common Questions
How long is the morning desert safari?
The experience runs about four hours total, including hotel pickup and drop-off; on-the-ground activities last roughly two to three hours.
Is dune bashing safe?
Vehicles are modified for off-road dunes and experienced drivers lead the run, but the activity involves high speeds and sharp climbs—follow your guide’s instructions and wear seatbelts when provided.
Can children participate?
Children can join but operators often set age rules and recommend supervision; disclose ages during booking so guides can advise and seat families appropriately.
What should I wear for sandboarding and the camel ride?
Wear breathable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and a hat; for sandboarding, pants help protect shins from hot sand and friction.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels but you should be comfortable with short hikes on sand, climbing dune faces and tolerating vehicle motion.
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