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.
4×4 Dune Bashing
With a definite adrenaline rush, dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle is one of the more intense activities you can try on a desert tour. Imagine a roller coaster ride — but in a four-wheel-drive vehicle racing over the dunes. With a skilled driver at the wheel, you’ll feel the thrill of climbing up incredibly steep dunes, teetering on the edge, and coming quickly down the other side. The rush of sand and the constant shifting of the horizon make this an unforgettable experience. If you’re prone to motion sickness, though, consider taking some precautions, as the ride can be quite intense!
Sandboarding
Sandboarding offers a more hands-on experience in the desert. Similar to snowboarding, sandboarding involves strapping onto a board and sliding down the dunes. The activity lets you truly engage with the desert landscape as you fly down the sand and take in the expansive views from the top of the dunes. It’s a fun, freeing activity that gives you a whole new perspective on the landscape around you.
Watching the Sunset and Evening Options
One of the most beautiful parts of a desert tour is watching the sunset over the dunes. If you book an afternoon tour, you’ll get to experience the stunning colors as the sun dips below the horizon, casting warm tones across the sand. The golden hour in the desert is absolutely breathtaking, with the changing light giving the dunes a surreal and magical glow. If you’re a photographer or simply a lover of natural beauty, this moment is truly unforgettable.
Some tours offer evening options, where you can extend your experience and enjoy a traditional BBQ dinner under the stars. The evening experience includes cultural performances, such as belly dancing and traditional music, adding a rich cultural dimension to your adventure. You can enjoy Arabic coffee, henna tattoos, and authentic Emirati dishes, which complete the experience of the UAE’s traditional hospitality. In the cooler night air, the desert takes on a peaceful, calm ambiance, making the evening option a relaxing way to end your tour.
Tips for Your Desert Experience
• Choose the Right Time: The desert can get extremely hot, so consider booking an afternoon or evening tour to avoid the midday sun. These later times are also ideal for catching the sunset.
• What to Bring: Wear light, breathable clothing, and be sure to bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A scarf or light shawl can be helpful for protection against the sun and wind.
• Sand, Sand, Sand: The desert is, of course, full of sand! Although tour providers usually provide air blowers to help brush off the sand before you leave, wearing closed shoes and light layers can make it easier to deal with any sand that sticks around after the activities.
Returning to the City
After a day of exploring the dunes, you’ll be driven back to your hotel or drop-off location in Dubai. The ride back is often quieter, offering time to reflect on the day and relax as you transition back from the peaceful desert to the lively cityscape. Private tours will provide a more personalized return journey, while group tours may make a few stops before reaching Dubai.
Final Thoughts
If you’re visiting Dubai and looking for an escape from the bustling urban environment, a desert tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experience. The chance to ride camels, dash across the dunes on an ATV, and try sandboarding gives a taste of the UAE’s natural beauty and traditional desert life, a side of Dubai that’s far removed from the luxury hotels and skyscrapers of the city center.
The Dubai desert is a stunning contrast to the city, offering a peaceful and thrilling experience that feels like an entirely different world. With friendly, knowledgeable guides and a wide range of activities, a desert tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Dubai. Whether you’re looking for pure adrenaline and excitement or a tranquil escape, the desert has something for everyone, making it a memorable addition to your Dubai itinerary.
For more of my adventures and travel tips, check out my recent blog posts!