Dubai Desert: Camel Ride, Dune Bashing & Sandboarding Tour

Summary

Dubai morning desert safari with camel rides sandboarding and pickup

You’ll ride camels across Dubai’s red dunes, feel your heart race during dune bashing in a private SUV, and try your luck at sandboarding (expect some tumbles). Meet local guides who share stories and let you hold a falcon for photos. It’s not always smooth but that’s what makes it stick with you long after you’re back in the city.

What’s the experience like?

The morning didn’t start quite as planned — I spilled half my coffee on my shirt just as our driver pulled up outside the hotel in Dubai. He grinned like he’d seen it all before (maybe he had), waved off my apologies, and helped us into the 4x4. The city faded fast behind us, replaced by this dry hush and endless red dunes. I kept thinking the sand looked softer than it felt — it squeaked underfoot when we stopped for a photo, which was oddly satisfying.

Dune bashing came next. Honestly, I thought I’d be cool with it, but halfway through I was gripping the seat tighter than I’d admit. Our guide Khalid laughed and told me to just “let go,” so I did — or tried to, anyway. The desert air tasted dusty but fresh, and there was this weird calm between the bumps when all you could hear was wind. Afterward, climbing onto a camel felt almost gentle by comparison. The camel’s name was something that sounded like “Majnoon” (crazy), which made sense because he kept turning his head to look at me like he knew something I didn’t.

I didn’t expect to enjoy sandboarding as much as I did — mostly because I fell off twice before figuring out how to balance. My shoes filled with warm sand and Khalid showed me how to brush it out without burning my hands (pro tip: use your sleeve). There was a falconer nearby too; he let us hold his bird for photos. The bird’s feathers were softer than they looked, and for a second everything went quiet except for its little clicking sounds.

We drove back toward Dubai with the sun already climbing higher. My shirt still had a coffee stain but somehow that felt right — proof I’d actually been there instead of just watching from a window. If you’re thinking about a morning desert adventure in Dubai with camel ride and sandboard, don’t worry about doing it perfectly. The best parts are the messy bits you don’t plan for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Morning desert safari and camel ride

• Pick up from Dubai location
• Travel in private 4x4 SUV to desert
• Experience dune bashing on red dunes
• Enjoy traditional camel riding
• Try sandboarding on desert slopes
• Take photos of desert landscape
• Return to Dubai location

Top questions

Is pickup included for the Dubai desert tour?

Yes, hotel or location pickup in Dubai is included in a private 4x4 SUV.

How long does the morning desert adventure last?

The tour covers an entire morning, including travel time from and back to Dubai.

What activities are part of this Dubai desert tour?

You’ll experience dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, photo opportunities with a falcon, plus refreshments.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Are refreshments provided during the tour?

Yes, complimentary refreshments are included throughout the experience.

Can pregnant travelers join this morning desert safari?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to physical activities involved.

Do infants need their own seat in the vehicle?

No, infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

What should I wear for this Dubai desert adventure?

The dress code is formal according to tour info; comfortable clothes are recommended due to sandy conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes private pickup from your Dubai hotel or chosen location in a 4x4 SUV with an experienced driver who handles both city streets and sandy tracks. You’ll get dune bashing on red dunes, a traditional camel ride across open desert, time to try sandboarding (falling is half the fun), photo moments with a local falconer’s bird, plus complimentary refreshments before being dropped off back at your place in Dubai.