Top 6 Escapes from the Bustle of Dubai

If you find yourself in the luxurious city of Dubai and are looking for some peace and quiet, you may want a break from the bustling city. Dubai is known for its high-end hotels, shopping centers, and exquisite dining; however, as a travel destination, it can also feel a bit overwhelming with its constant crowds, busy construction, and nonstop energy. Even Dubai’s beaches can be packed, leaving minimal space for a truly relaxing experience.

Personally, whenever I’m in a big city, I quickly crave some quiet and space, especially after a few days of urban exploration. Dubai was no different; after taking in the crazy skyscrapers and ultra-modern attractions, I was ready to trade it all for a natural, quieter adventure in the desert, where I could recharge.

In Dubai, finding an escape to nature isn’t as easy as it might be in other cities, as most popular attractions — like the Burj Khalifa, Palm Island, and endless shopping centers — are concentrated in the city center. But if you’re up for a bit of exploration, a desert tour can be the perfect answer. There are numerous guided tours that offer different experiences in the Dubai desert, each designed to fit a variety of budgets and preferences, whether you’re looking for a brief getaway or an extended excursion.

Booking platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator make it easy to pick a tour that fits your schedule, with options that range from $30 to over $300. Some tours are tailored for private groups, while others are organized for shared experiences, each providing unique activities like camel rides, dune bashing, and ATV riding. You can choose the time of day that works best for you, with morning, afternoon, and evening options available.

Getting There and What to Expect

Most desert tours offer hotel pick-up and drop-off, either privately or in a group, making it very convenient. The journey to the desert is about an hour, bringing you to a location near the border with Oman, where you’ll step into a new landscape that feels worlds apart from the chaos of the city. Upon arrival, you’ll find that the tour company has already set up a small camp with a range of activities ready for you to enjoy. Here are some highlights you can look forward to on a typical desert tour:

Camel Ride

A camel ride in the desert is a unique experience you won’t want to miss. These tall creatures are fascinating to ride as they have the ability to navigate sandy terrain with ease. The camel ride is often short, but tour guides are incredibly friendly and usually offer to take photos, helping you capture the memory perfectly. The backdrop of endless dunes and the camel itself makes for a classic, postcard-worthy shot, something to share with friends back home.

ATV Adventure

If you’re someone who likes a bit of an adrenaline rush, then the ATV (quad bike) ride will definitely be a highlight of your tour. The thrill of speeding across the dunes on a powerful four-wheeler is an experience like no other as you go through the sand and race up and down the hills. Many tours give you the choice of riding solo or with a partner, making it a flexible activity for all kinds of travelers. Safety is a priority, so guides ensure you’re comfortable before taking off. Even for first-timers, ATV rides are straightforward and easy to get the hang of. Just be sure to pay attention to the terrain and be safe.

Falcon Experience

For those interested in getting up close with wildlife, many desert camps feature a falcon experience. Falcons are the national bird of the UAE, specifically the saker falcon, and they hold significant cultural importance as symbols of hunting and traditional desert life. Local handlers, dressed in traditional attire, often carry the birds on their arms, and you’ll have the chance to get a photo holding one of these majestic creatures. The falcons are well-trained, and it’s a unique opportunity to appreciate their beauty and connection to the culture.