Morning Desert Safari from Dubai: Dune Bashing, Camel Ride & Sand Boarding
Leave the city behind for five hours of dune bashing, sand boarding and a short camel ride across the Dubai desert. This morning safari through protected desert lands balances adrenalized 4x4 runs with wildlife sighting opportunities and practical transport from central Dubai.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate Before and During
Temperatures rise quickly even in the morning—carry and sip at least 1–2 liters of water; refill when possible.
Protect Against the Sun
Sunscreen, a wide-brim hat and UV-blocking sunglasses reduce glare and sand irritation during open-vehicle segments.
Wear Secure Footwear
Closed-toe shoes with good traction help when climbing dunes and handling a sandboard; flip-flops aren’t recommended.
Prepare for Motion
If you’re prone to motion sickness, sit towards the middle of the vehicle and consider medication before dune bashing starts.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stop briefly on a leeward dune crest for clear, uninterrupted desert panoramas away from the main camp
- •Ask your guide about nearby saline sabkha patches where unique plants and insects concentrate after rare rains
Wildlife
- •Arabian oryx
- •Gazelle
Conservation Note
Tours operate near the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where regulated eco-tourism supports habitat protection and reintroduction programs for oryx and other native species.
The area sits within the Arabian Desert, long crossed by Bedouin tribes; camels were historically the primary means of transport and trade across these sands.
What to Bring
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is critical; bring a bottle you can refill during the tour.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Provide traction on soft sand and protect feet during camel mount/dismount and sand boarding.
Sunscreen & sunglassesEssential
Protect skin and eyes from intense desert sun and reflective sand.
Light wind jacket
Mornings can be cool; a thin layer blocks wind and fine sand during open-vehicle sections.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and when does it start?
The tour runs about five hours total and departs in the morning; exact pickup times depend on your hotel location and will be confirmed in advance.
Is dune bashing safe and suitable for everyone?
Dune bashing is conducted by experienced drivers but is not recommended for pregnant travelers, people with serious back or heart conditions, children under 6, or seniors over 65 for the bashing portion.
What activities are included?
Typical inclusions are dune bashing in a 4x4, a short camel ride, sand boarding, and hotel pickup/drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle; specifics can vary by operator.
Can I bring a child or infant?
Children can join the tour, but dune bashing has age restrictions; infants are provided specialist car seats and should be declared at booking for safe transport arrangements.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to climb short steep sand slopes and tolerate bumpy off-road rides.
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