Dubai’s desert is not just a vast expanse of sand—it’s a playground for adventure seekers, culture lovers, and those looking to escape the city’s hustle. Whether you’re seeking thrills or tranquil moments under the stars, Dubai’s desert has something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top 10 things to do in the Dubai desert that you don’t want to miss!
1. Dune Bashing
The quintessential Dubai desert experience! Hop into a 4×4 vehicle and brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping ride over towering dunes. Professional drivers will take you on a thrilling adventure, speeding up, down, and across the sandy waves for an exhilarating experience.
2. Camel Riding
Step back in time and experience the traditional way of desert travel. A peaceful camel ride lets you explore the desert at a leisurely pace while enjoying the serene landscape. Camel treks are perfect for soaking in the beauty of the desert while embracing a bit of Arabian heritage.
3. Quad Biking
For those who want to control their own adventure, quad biking offers an electrifying way to explore the desert terrain. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, the freedom of cruising over the sand on a powerful quad bike is sure to be a highlight.
4. Sandboarding
Much like snowboarding, but with sand! Glide down the dunes on a sandboard and test your balance as you surf the desert’s golden waves. It’s a fun and exciting activity for adventure lovers and thrill-seekers.
5. Dune Buggy Rides
If you crave a self-driving experience, take the wheel of a dune buggy and hit the sand. This high-octane activity is perfect for adrenaline junkies looking to carve their own path through the desert dunes in a rugged off-road vehicle.
6. Desert Camping
For an authentic Arabian adventure, spend the night in the desert. Enjoy an evening of desert camping under the stars, complete with a traditional BBQ dinner, live entertainment, and a cozy overnight stay in a Bedouin-style tent. Watch the sunrise in the morning for an unforgettable memory.
7. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Take to the skies with a hot air balloon ride and witness the desert from a bird’s-eye view. As you glide peacefully over the vast desert landscape at sunrise, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the sand dunes, wildlife, and even the city skyline in the distance.
8. Falconry Shows
Get up close to one of the UAE’s most cherished traditions with a falconry show. Watch as skilled handlers demonstrate the incredible speed and agility of these majestic birds. Some desert safaris offer the chance to interact with the falcons, a great way to learn about this important part of Arabian culture.
9. BBQ Dinner with Live Entertainment
After a day of adventure, relax at a desert camp with a BBQ dinner featuring traditional Arabic dishes. As you dine under the stars, enjoy live entertainment including belly dancing, the hypnotic Tanoura dance, and an awe-inspiring fire show. It’s the perfect way to cap off your desert experience.
10. Stargazing
When night falls, the desert sky comes alive with stars. Far away from the city lights, the desert offers some of the clearest stargazing in the region. Many desert tours include stargazing experiences, where you can learn about the constellations and the rich history of Arabian astronomy.