Red Dunes Dune Buggy Safari in Dubai: Self-Drive Adventure with Camel Ride
Feel the rumble of a dune buggy as the Red Dunes of Al Lahbab roll under your wheels, then slow to a gentle camel pace for a pocket of desert calm. This private 4-hour experience combines off-road driving, a traditional camel ride, and desert photography stops.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time your visit
Choose early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and soft sand that makes driving harder.
Hydration and heat
Bring extra water beyond what's provided and reapply sunscreen after dusty stops.
Footwear and protection
Wear closed-toe shoes and wrap-around sunglasses or goggles to protect against blowing sand.
Listen to the briefing
Follow the guide’s instructions on throttle control and dune crossing lines to reduce rollover risk.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive to a ridge at sunset for long shadows and fewer tour groups
- •Small sand hollows near the meeting point often hold delicate desert plants after rare rains
Wildlife
- •Desert fox (rarely seen at dusk)
- •Various desert larks and migrant passerines; falcons appear during guided photo stops
Conservation Note
Stay on designated tracks, avoid driving over vegetation, and pack out all waste — dune ecosystems recover slowly and are easily damaged.
Al Lahbab’s dunes formed from longshore and inland sand deposits; the area lies along traditional Bedouin tracks historically used for trade and travel.
What to Bring
Closed-toe hiking or trail shoesEssential
Protects feet when entering/exiting buggies and walking on hot, shifting sand.
Sunglasses and gogglesEssential
Keeps sand and glare out of your eyes during fast runs.
High-SPF sunscreen and lip balmEssential
Prevents severe sunburn in the low humidity desert environment.
Light neck gaiter or scarf
Useful to block dust during driving and for extra sun protection.
Common Questions
Is prior driving experience required?
No formal license beyond a standard driver’s license is usually required, but basic vehicle handling and comfort with off-road conditions are recommended.
What is included in the tour price?
Transfers from central Dubai (if selected), helmet and eye protection, bottled water during transfers, a guided self-drive buggy session, a short camel ride, falcon photo stop, and an English-speaking guide.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes for older children; operators typically have age or height minimums and require infants to sit on laps — check booking requirements.
What medical restrictions apply?
Not recommended for pregnant guests or travelers with serious back, spinal, or cardiovascular conditions due to the bumpy nature of off-road driving.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to climb small dunes, transfer in/out of vehicles, and manage short camel rides
Ready to Explore Dubai?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now