Dubai’s desert offers an unforgettable experience for adventure enthusiasts, with thrilling activities like sand boarding, dune bashing, camel rides, and quad biking. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a relaxing cultural immersion, Dubai’s desert safaris have something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know before embarking on your desert adventure.
Temperature and Best Time to Visit
The temperature in Dubai’s desert varies dramatically throughout the year. In winter, average highs range from 24°C (75°F) in January to 43°C (109°F) in the summer months of July and August. The temperature in the desert drops rapidly about two hours before sunset, often cooling by 7 to 10 degrees compared to the city, due to the unique properties of the sand.
January is the coldest month, with average highs of 25°C (77°F) and lows of 14°C (57°F). This period is considered the most pleasant for outdoor activities, including exploring the city and experiencing desert safaris. The best time to visit Dubai from India is between December and March, when the weather is perfect for both city tours and desert adventures.
Desert Safari Activities
Dubai’s desert safaris are packed with exciting activities. The most popular is dune bashing, an off-road thrill ride in specially modified 4×4 vehicles. These powerful vehicles are designed to handle the shifting sands, with reinforced suspension systems and large tires for maximum stability. Dune bashing typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, but the entire safari experience, including camel rides, sandboarding, and more, can last several hours.
For a more relaxed experience, many desert safaris also offer a private dinner in a traditional Bedouin-style camp, where you can enjoy a delicious BBQ meal and cultural performances under the stars. Some of the most luxurious safaris include a desert drive in a Land Rover Defender and fine dining with acrobatics and fire shows, such as the Platinum Desert Safari.
Quad biking is another thrilling option. Riders can navigate the vast dunes on sturdy, powerful bikes, with standard tickets typically offering 10 to 15 minutes of riding, and premium tickets offering 30 minutes and additional activities. No license is required to ride a quad bike, making it an accessible option for tourists looking for adventure.
What is Dune Bashing?
Dune bashing is an off-road activity where specially modified 4×4 vehicles race across the dunes at high speeds. This activity requires a skilled driver to navigate the unstable and shifting sand. It’s a fun, heart-racing experience that’s not to be missed, but it’s important to ensure that you book a safari with highly professional drivers and vehicles that meet safety standards. Popular vehicles for dune bashing include the Toyota Land Cruiser and buggies.
The dune-bashing ride typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, but the entire desert safari experience, including other activities, can extend for several hours. It is an exciting and adrenaline-pumping activity that should be tried by everyone, except those with medical conditions or those who are pregnant. Babies are not allowed on these rides due to the high speeds involved. Wearing a seatbelt during the ride is mandatory.
Safety Considerations
Dune bashing and other desert activities can be physically intense, so it’s essential to take safety precautions. Everyone is encouraged to try dune bashing unless they have medical conditions or are pregnant. Children and babies are not allowed on these rides due to the high speeds involved. Wearing a seatbelt during the ride is mandatory.
For quad biking, it’s recommended to wear long-sleeved clothing, long pants, and a scarf to protect yourself from the sun and dust. Protective gear is also provided for safety during these high-speed activities.
Desert Locations in Dubai
Dubai offers several popular desert safari locations, each offering its own unique experiences:
- Al Awir Desert
- Liwa Desert
- Al Lahbab Desert
- Al Faya Desert
- Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
- Jebel Maleihah
- Bidayer
One of the closest deserts to Dubai is Bab Al Shams Desert, located less than 50 kilometers from Dubai Marina, perfect for those looking for a quick desert escape.
Rub’ al Khali – The Great Sandy Desert
Rub’ al Khali, also known as the Great Sandy Desert, is the largest continuous sand desert in the world. Spanning 250,000 square miles, this desert is famous for its vast oil and natural gas reserves beneath its sands. While it’s not typically a destination for tourists, its significance as the world’s largest desert cannot be understated.
Dubai’s Climate
Dubai features a tropical desert climate, with two main seasons: hot summers and mild winters. The city receives an average of 130 mm (5.12 inches) of rainfall per year, with occasional showers, especially in the winter months.
Desert Safari Pricing
The price of a desert safari depends on the type of safari you choose. A standard morning or evening safari typically costs between INR 2,000 and INR 4,000 per person, while a camel safari costs around INR 2,995 per person. More luxurious safaris, such as the Morning Desert Safari, include a Land Rover drive, fine dining, and exclusive entertainment for a premium price.
Some safaris offer additional adventure options, such as quad biking, sandboarding, or dune buggy rides. A standard ticket with quad biking costs around AED 200 for 10 to 15 minutes of riding, while a premium ticket can cost AED 600 for 30 minutes of quad biking plus other adventure activities.
Best Vehicles for Desert Activities
For dune bashing and other off-road adventures, the Toyota Land Cruiser is often regarded as the best vehicle. Known for its durability, powerful engine, and advanced 4WD capabilities, it’s perfect for tackling the rugged desert terrain.
Conclusion
Dubai’s desert is the ultimate playground for adventure seekers. With activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and quad biking, it offers an exciting experience for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a more cultural experience, there’s something for everyone. The best time to visit is during the cooler months of December to March, ensuring an unforgettable desert adventure under the Arabian sky.
