Things to do in Dubai for Solo : Dubai’s Ultimate Sandboarding Experience

Delna Shobi

September 1, 2023

4 min read

Greetings, fellow solo adventurers! As you embark on an exciting journey through Dubai’s desert terrain, you might be familiar with snowboarding, but have you ever heard of sandboarding? Unlike snowboarding in chilly mountains, sandboarding is all about gracefully gliding through the soft, sun-kissed sand dunes of Dubai’s majestic deserts. Now, why should solo travellers consider sandboarding in Dubai as their ultimate desert adventure? Well, Dubai proudly boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking desert landscapes, featuring endless, smooth sand dunes that are tailor-made for sandboarding enthusiasts. Whether you’re an experienced sandboarder or a curious novice, Dubai offers the ultimate solo adventure, where you can explore not only the desert but also the best things to do in Dubai. In this blog, we’ll delve into the exhilarating world of sandboarding in Dubai, reveal the prime spots, offer valuable tips, and guide you on an unforgettable solo adventure. Dubai’s inviting sand dunes are not just a picturesque backdrop; they’re a playground for adventure seekers. Join us as we uncover the top things to do in Dubai and prepare for an adventure like no other!

What is Sandboarding ?

Sandboarding is an exhilarating sport that mirrors the principles of snowboarding, skateboarding, and surfing. Instead of snow-covered mountains, city streets, or ocean waves, sandboarders navigate the soft, sandy terrain of desert dunes. While modern sandboarding became a global phenomenon in the early 2000s, its origins may stretch back thousands of years. The true inventor of this sport remains a mystery, with historical references suggesting ancient Egyptians used clay or wooden planks for sliding down sand dunes for leisure. Other accounts trace sandboarding back to around 800 AD in China, where ancient rituals involved the use of wood, leather, and terracotta boards for dune sliding. These early practices likely contributed to the development of the sandboarding experiences enjoyed today. This adventure typically involves riding a specialised sandboard, a flat board equipped with bindings or straps to secure the rider’s feet. While standing on the board, sandboarders gracefully descend the dunes, employing body movements for steering and speed control. The sand’s unique texture and consistency create a distinctive and thrilling experience, enabling riders to carve intricate lines and perform tricks on the dunes. Sandboarding is an inclusive sport that welcomes participants of various skill levels, from novices to seasoned enthusiasts. It has gained popularity in desert regions worldwide, offering a perfect fit for landscapes featuring expansive sand dunes. For example, in Dubai, tourists and thrill-seekers can partake in this exciting activity as part of desert safari experiences.

 

Is Sandboarding in Dubai worth the hype?

Absolutely yes, sandboarding in Dubai is well worth the hype! It’s a thrilling sport that combines elements of surfing, skateboarding, and snowboarding. Instead of riding waves, streets, or snow, sandboarding lets you glide down or across the faces of sand dunes. Believe it or not, this isn’t a new trend. The Ancient Egyptians were already using wooden planks to slide down dunes and transport heavy cargo, making it a time – honoured tradition. Dubai, with its vast deserts featuring dunes of varying heights and slopes, provides the perfect terrain for sandboarding. Tall and steep dunes, in particular, offer an exhilarating sandboarding experience. The smooth surfaces of Dubai’s dunes make it an ideal destination for sandboarding adventures. So, if you’re wondering whether sandboarding in Dubai lives up to its reputation, the answer is a resounding yes! It’s an exciting activity you can enjoy as part of your desert safari in Dubai, and Dubai’s well-crafted dunes are waiting for you to carve your path.

Top 3 Sandboarding Experience at Dubai

Morning Desert Safari Dubai (Dune Bashing, Sand Boarding and Camel Ride) :Your morning desert safari dune-bashing adventure, spanning around 4-5 hours, commences as you’re picked up from your hotel in a sturdy 4×4 Land Cruiser. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll embark on a short 45-minute journey from Dubai to the desert. Upon arrival, a warm welcome awaits, complete with traditional Arabic coffee, delightful sweets like Gawa and Gaymat, and sweet dates. Before the desert exploration kicks off, there’s an option to try thrilling quad biking. Following this, you’ll dive into the heart of the desert for an adrenaline-pumping 35–45 minutes of dune bashing aboard the Land Cruiser. Once the exhilarating ride concludes, you can test your skills at sandboarding while capturing memorable moments through plenty of photographs. Next on the agenda is a visit to the Al Khayma camp, where you can enjoy a brief camel ride in the nearby area (which can be repeated for added fun). To round off your adventure, there’s the option to indulge in a light brunch (please note that brunch is not automatically included; you’ll need to select the brunch option separately).

 

Premium Morning Safari with Quad Bike, Sandboarding & Camel Ride : If you are looking to experience the thrills of a desert in Dubai, the premium morning quad bike dubai and sandboarding tour will not disappoint you. You will be picked up from your hotel or given location in Dubai by our Safari Captain in an air-conditioned vehicle. Soon after, you will explore the desert outskirts with quad biking and ride along the barren terrains and conquer the bumpy dunes. You can enjoy this off-road experience for up to 50 minutes. During the ride, shoot splendid photographs. Get introduced and try your skills at sandboarding and slide down the dunes and feel the fun of playing closely with sand dunes. At last, enjoy an authentic experience in the desert with a short camel ride witnessing the morning bliss of the desert. after the camel ride.

 

Premium Red Dunes by Quad Bike, Camel Ride, Sandboarding and BBQ : Get ready to experience one-of-a-kind desert adventure with premium red dunes at Al Khayma Camp tickets. The exciting red dunes desert safari offers an air-conditioned vehicle that takes you through the beautiful Lahbab desert. First, you will be picked up from your hotel or selected location in Dubai and upon arrival in the desert, the Safari Captain will brief you with all the instructions and guidelines to take part in the adventures. Ride single or double and set off for an adventurous and alluring quad bike session over the shape-shifting sand dunes for 50 minutes. Take a short camel ride and enjoy an enchanting ride around the camp premises. Don’t forget to capture stunning photos between the rides. Before you get back to the camp, watch exciting performances of Nashaat dance and Tanoura show.

 

Essential Information Before Sandboarding

  • Avoid eating 2-3 hours before the safari to prevent nausea during dune bashing.
  • Not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back or neck pain, heart issues, or serious medical conditions.
  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but we’ll try to accommodate those with physical disabilities.
  • Pick-up occurs within the first 30-45 minutes of your scheduled time; be punctual at the hotel lobby.
  • Wear sports shoes for safe sandboarding; dress appropriately for weather conditions.
  • Children aged 3+ can join with an adult; under-3s are not allowed.
  • Maintain a moderate level of physical fitness.
  • Self-practicing quad biking is your responsibility.
  • For non-city pick-ups, we’ll advise on suitable meeting points.
  • Be responsible for your belongings and follow the tour leader’s instructions.
  • Insurance doesn’t cover damage, injuries, or lost items during quad biking; sign an indemnity form.
  • The tour duration is fixed but may vary due to city traffic.

Tips to follow

Desert environments can be hot and dry. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the activity.

Opt for comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for the desert climate. In hot weather, choose lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics, and in cooler weather, dress in layers.

Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun's rays.

Secure, closed-toe shoes like sports or hiking shoes are essential for sandboarding to provide grip and protect your feet.

Use any provided safety equipment, such as helmets or protective gear, to ensure your safety during sandboarding.

Listen carefully to your instructor's guidelines on sandboarding techniques and safety measures.

Stretch and warm up your muscles before you start sandboarding to reduce the risk of injury.

Inspect your sandboard to ensure it's in good condition with secure bindings.

If you're a beginner, start with smaller dunes and gradually work your way up to more challenging ones as you gain confidence and experience.

Be mindful of the desert ecosystem. Avoid littering and follow the Leave No Trace principles.

Sandboarding is more enjoyable and safer when done in a group. Stick together and watch out for one another.

Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the thrilling experience of sandboarding in the desert!

FAQ

What is sandboarding, and how does it work?

Sandboarding is a thrilling sport where participants ride specially designed boards down the slopes of sand dunes. It’s similar to snowboarding but on desert dunes. Riders use their body movements to steer and control their speed while gliding on the soft, sandy surface.

Is sandboarding in Dubai suitable for beginners?

Yes, many sandboarding locations in Dubai cater to beginners. You can start with smaller dunes and gradually progress to larger ones as you gain confidence. Experienced instructors often provide guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for beginners.

What should I wear for sandboarding in Dubai?

Wear comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for the desert climate. In hot weather, opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics, and in cooler weather, dress in layers. Closed-toe shoes like sports or hiking shoes are essential for grip and foot protection.

Are there age restrictions for sandboarding in Dubai?

Generally, children aged 3 and above can participate with adult supervision. However, specific age requirements may vary by sandboarding provider, so it’s advisable to check with them before booking.

Is sandboarding physically demanding?

Sandboarding can be physically demanding, especially if you’re climbing up dunes repeatedly. Having a moderate level of physical fitness can enhance your experience, but you can choose your own pace to match your fitness level.

Are there any safety precautions for sandboarding in Dubai?

Yes, safety is essential. Always follow the instructions of your instructor, use provided safety gear, and be mindful of your surroundings. Additionally, staying hydrated and protecting yourself from the sun are crucial safety measures.

Can I bring my own sandboard to Dubai for sandboarding?

Yes, you can bring your own sandboard if you prefer. However, many sandboarding providers in Dubai offer rental equipment, including sandboards, which can be a convenient option for travelers.

Are there different types of sandboarding experiences in Dubai?

Yes, you can choose from various sandboarding experiences in Dubai, including guided tours with professional instructors, self-guided sessions, and options for different skill levels, from beginner to advanced.

Is sandboarding in Dubai only available in the morning?

Sandboarding can be enjoyed both in the morning and during sunset. The choice of time may depend on your preference and the availability of sandboarding tours with different timings.

What’s the best season for sandboarding in Dubai?

Sandboarding in Dubai is popular year-round. However, the cooler months from November to April are considered the best time for sandboarding due to more comfortable temperatures. Summer months can be extremely hot for outdoor activities.

Delna Shobi

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

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

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