Desert Escapes: Immersive Experiences Beyond Dubai’s Bustle

Delna Shobi

September 1, 2023

4 min read

Step into a different world where Dubai’s busy cityscape fades away, revealing the calm, vast desert. Welcome to a journey that takes you far from the city’s busy life and into the peaceful desert landscape. In “Desert Escapes: Immersive Experiences Beyond Dubai’s Bustle,” we invite you to explore hidden treasures just beyond the city’s borders. Embark on a trip where time seems slower and the desert sand holds secrets. Amid Dubai’s tall buildings and bustling city, the calm beauty of the desert often goes unnoticed. We encourage you to step away from the fast pace and enjoy moments of peace in the quiet dunes. From camel rides at sunset to looking at stars under the open sky, the desert offers a unique adventure. In this vast landscape, you can play and explore like nowhere else. In this blog, we’ll guide you through different experiences that will help you really understand the desert. Whether you’re interested in exciting dune rides, the calm of an oasis, or the special hospitality of the Bedouin people, Dubai’s desert has something for everyone. So, pack your curiosity, leave the city’s noise behind, and join us as we explore the immersive beauty of the desert. This is definitely something you shouldn’t miss when looking for things to do in Dubai.

Quad Biking

Prepare for an all-encompassing and extraordinary adventure as you navigate the mesmerising desert landscape, ensuring a remarkable experience while conquering the desert dunes. Quad biking is the ultimate thrill for adventure enthusiasts and off-road aficionados, promising an unparalleled experience. In Dubai, you have the opportunity to combine the excitement of quad biking with the allure of a desert safari. Many tour operators provide comprehensive packages that seamlessly blend both experiences. This means you can revel in the adrenaline rush of quad biking and the enchantment of a desert safari, all in a single, well-curated adventure package. So, whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to off-roading, quad biking in Dubai, often bundled with a desert safari, guarantees an unforgettable and action-packed journey through the stunning desert terrain of this remarkable city. Don’t miss the chance to embark on this extraordinary dual adventure and create lasting memories in the heart of the desert.

 

Essential Information Before you visit

  • Smoking is not permitted inside the vehicles.
  • Bringing pets along on the Quad Bike Desert Safari is not allowed.
  • The approximate duration of the Yamaha Quad Bike Desert Safari is 30 minutes.
  • We advise wearing light summer attire and having hats and sunglasses handy.
  • Comfortable footwear is recommended for your convenience.
  • Guests aged 10 and above will be charged the adult fare.
  • Drivers must be at least 10 years old.
  • Please bring identification as age verification is necessary.
  • Opt for light summer clothing and carry high-quality sunglasses and hats.

Camel Safari

Embarking on a camel desert safari offers the most authentic exploration of Dubai’s desert landscape, embracing the tradition of travelling via camel convoy. Often hailed as “ships of the desert,” camels move gracefully through the sandy terrain. During your 45-minute excursion, you’ll follow the path of Bedouin travellers, leading you to a traditional Bedouin camp illuminated by soft flames, nestled in a private royal desert sanctuary. Delve into the significance of another regional creature, the falcon. Witness a captivating sunset falcon show amidst the dunes and understand why these birds are integral to Emirati culture. Immerse yourself in Dubai’s past, over 50 years ago, while partaking in cultural activities like henna application, shisha, and bread-making. Gain insights into a local recipe passed down through generations before savouring a delectable four-course dinner beneath the Arabian desert’s starlit expanse.

 

Essential Information Before you visit

  • Pets are not allowed on the Heritage Camel Safari.
  • Smoking is strictly restricted to designated areas.
  • Consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited on the tour.
  • We recommend you dress up in line with the local customs.
  • We suggest you wear comfortable shoes.

Dune Bashing

Dune bashing in Dubai offers an electrifying desert adventure that thrills both locals and tourists alike. This exhilarating activity involves a skilled driver manoeuvring a robust SUV over sand dunes at varying speeds, creating an adrenaline-fueled experience. A highlight of desert safaris, dune bashing guarantees heart-pounding excitement amidst the stunning desert landscape. As the SUV surges up and descends steep dunes, the sensation is a mix of awe and delight. The adventure lasts approximately 30 minutes, during which safety remains a priority with well-equipped vehicles and reduced tyre pressure for smoother dune traversal. To ensure a secure and memorable experience, it’s essential to choose a reputable company for your dune bashing adventure. Brace yourself for an unforgettable ride through Dubai’s mesmerising desert terrain.

 

Essential Information before you visit

  • It is recommended not to eat for 2–3 hours before the safari trip to avoid any kind of vomiting or sickness during the dune bashing session.
  • This activity is not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with back or neck pain, heart problems, or other serious medical complaints.
  • This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but if anyone in your group has any physical disabilities, please get in touch, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
  • Please wear sports shoes for safe sandboarding.
  • Check the weather conditions. Light clothes in summer and long clothes with jackets in winter are recommended.
  • Children must be 3 years of age or older to participate in this activity and should be accompanied by an adult.
  • You should have a moderate physical fitness level.
  • Self-practicing quad biking is solely your responsibility.
  • Pickup from outside the city will be directed to nearby locations.
  • Please take care of your personal belongings.
  • Listening to and following the tour leader is strongly recommended.
  • Any damage, injuries sustained, or items lost during the quad tour are not covered by insurance. All participants must sign an indemnity form before the tour.
  • All participants must sign an indemnity form before the tour.
  • Tour duration is fixed for any tour or activity, but it may vary depending on city traffic.

Sandboarding

Sandboarding in Dubai is an exhilarating adventure that seamlessly blends the excitement of snowboarding with the desert’s unique landscape. This thrilling sport involves gliding down towering sand dunes on specially designed boards, offering an unforgettable and heart-pounding experience. Dubai’s desert provides the perfect setting for sandboarding, with locations like the Lahbab Desert and the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offering pristine, expansive dunes that are ideal for this sport. To embark on this adventure, you can rent sandboarding equipment from local operators, usually including boards designed for sand use. Comfort is key when sandboarding in the desert, so wearing breathable clothing suitable for the hot climate is essential. Additionally, protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, and stay hydrated during your session. For a hassle-free experience, consider joining a sandboarding tour with reputable operators like Arabian Adventures or Desert Safari Dubai. These tours typically include transportation, equipment rental, and expert guidance, ensuring your safety and maximising your enjoyment. Whether you choose a guided tour or venture out on your own, sandboarding in Dubai guarantees an exciting and memorable adventure amid the breathtaking desert landscape. So, get ready to slide down those magnificent dunes and create lasting memories in this extraordinary setting.

 

Essential Information Before you visit

  • It is recommended not to eat for 2–3 hours before the sandboarding activity to avoid any kind of vomiting or sickness during the dune bashing session.
  • The tour duration is approximately 4 hours, including the 50-minute quad bike ride.
  • The duration of the tour includes both pick-up and drop-off times as well.
  • This activity is not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with back or neck pain, heart problems, or other serious medical complaints.
  • This tour is not wheelchair-accessible.
  • Please wear sports shoes for safe sandboarding.
  • Check the weather conditions. Light clothes in summer and long clothes with jackets in winter are recommended.

Dubai Conservation Reserve

Secure your spot for an adrenaline-pumping journey aboard luxury Range Rovers, embarking on a conservation-themed adventure. Explore the sprawling Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, the UAE’s largest national park, and discover its extraordinary desert environment teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Accompanied by an expert Conservation Guide, you’ll gain insights into this captivating desert ecosystem while identifying remarkable indigenous wildlife like the Arabian oryx. Don’t miss the chance to experience this thrilling drive through the desert while contributing to conservation efforts. Reserve your seats now!

 

Essential Information Before you visit

  • Since the vehicle and Al Maha Resort have air conditioning, this desert safari is suitable all year round, including summer.
  • A portion of your Desert Safari fee is contributed towards local conversation in Dubai.
  • You can also opt for vegetarian and vegan meals; however, please inform the operators while booking so they can accommodate them.
  • Due to health and safety concerns, the wildlife drive is not recommended for pregnant guests within their third trimester.
  • There is no direct pick-up from private residences in Dubai unless you have booked a private car.
  • The pickup time is between 7:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m.
  • You will return to the hotel between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
  • As it is quite warm in the Dubai desert, we recommend that you wear a hat, sunglasses, sun cream, and comfortable, cool clothes.
  • During the winter, please carry something warm, as the desert can be cold.
  • Children 10 years of age and older can join and enjoy the experience.
  • Bathroom facilities are available in the desert and at the camp.
  • A vehicle can accommodate a maximum of four people, and additional passengers will be accommodated in another vehicle.
  • The operators strongly recommend that you take out adequate travel insurance that will cover you in case of unforeseen circumstances that prevent you from joining your scheduled tour.

Tips to follow

Desert activities are best enjoyed during the cooler parts of the day, either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The temperatures are more bearable, and you can witness stunning desert sunrises or sunsets.

Dress comfortably in light, breathable clothing. Avoid dark colours that can absorb heat. Don't forget to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

The desert can be dehydrating, so carry an adequate supply of water. Many tour operators provide water, but it's a good idea to have some extra on hand

Bring essentials like a camera, extra batteries, and a phone charger to capture the breathtaking scenery. Also, carry a small backpack for your personal items.

Show respect for the environment and local customs. Avoid littering and follow your guide's instructions to protect the fragile desert ecosystem.

If you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication before activities like dune bashing, which can be quite bumpy.

Before embarking on activities like quad biking or dune bashing, ensure that loose items such as hats, scarves, or sunglasses are securely fastened or stowed away to prevent them from being lost.

Desert adventures often include traditional meals. Embrace the opportunity to savour authentic Emirati cuisine and delicacies served in the desert camps.

Be mindful of the desert's heat, especially during the summer months. Take frequent breaks in the shade, stay hydrated, and listen to your body's signals.

Desert tours can be popular, so it's advisable to book your adventure in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Some desert activities can be physically demanding. Assess your health and fitness levels to ensure you can comfortably participate in your chosen activities.

FAQ

Is sandboarding in Dubai suitable for beginners?

Yes, sandboarding is beginner-friendly. The soft desert sand makes it a forgiving surface, and most tours offer guidance for newcomers.

What should I wear for sandboarding?

Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

Is dune bashing safe?

Yes, dune bashing is generally safe when conducted by reputable tour operators. Vehicles are equipped with safety gear, and skilled drivers ensure a thrilling yet secure experience.

Are there age or health restrictions for dune bashing?

Most tours have age and health requirements. Check with your tour operator for specific restrictions.

How long does a typical camel safari in Dubai last?

Camel safaris usually range from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the tour package you choose.

Do I need any prior experience to ride a camel?

No prior experience is required. Camels are gentle creatures, and experienced handlers guide them during the safari.

Can anyone ride a quad bike in the desert?

Most tour operators offer quad biking experiences for beginners and experienced riders. Age restrictions may apply, so check in advance.

Are there safety measures in place for quad biking?

Yes, safety measures include wearing helmets and receiving briefings on how to operate the quad bike safely.

What types of wildlife can I expect to see in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve?

You may spot Arabian oryx, gazelles, desert foxes, and a variety of bird species. The reserve is dedicated to preserving native desert wildlife.

Are there specific times of day when wildlife sightings are more likely?

Wildlife is often more active during the cooler early morning and late afternoon hours, so consider scheduling your visit during these times for better chances of sightings.

Delna Shobi

Weaving worlds with words, where imagination blooms and stories take flight.

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    TRIPXTOURS DMCC
    2801, Mazata Business Avenue BB2,
    Plot No: JLTE-PH2-BB2,
    jumeirah Lakes Towers,
    Dubai, UAE

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    TRIPXTOURS DMCC
    2801, Mazata Business Avenue BB2,
    Plot No: JLTE-PH2-BB2,
    jumeirah Lakes Towers,
    Dubai, UAE

    Thrillark, Crafted with in Dubai

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