Dubai Desert: Private Dune Safari with Camel Ride & Pickup

Summary

Private red dunes adventure in Dubai with camel ride and more

You’ll feel the thrill of dune bashing across Lahbab’s red sands, try your luck at sandboarding (expect to laugh), meet a falcon up close for photos, and ride camels led by locals who know every inch of the desert. Private pickup makes it easy — you just show up ready for adventure.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the silence to be so thick out there — it’s like the city just vanished behind us once our guide turned off the main road. The drive from Dubai was maybe 45 minutes? Hard to say, I was too busy watching the buildings fade into sand. Our driver, Ahmed, had this easy laugh and pointed out a herd of camels before we even hit Lahbab. I tried to snap a photo but my phone caught mostly dashboard and my own knee. Typical.

The first thing that hit me stepping out: the color of those red dunes. Not orange, not brown — something in between. Warm wind in my face, sand already sneaking into my shoes. We started with dune bashing (I’d never done it), gripping the seat while Ahmed zig-zagged up and down these steep slopes for what felt like forever but was probably 35 minutes. My stomach dropped at least three times — in a good way. There was this moment when he stopped at the top and we could see nothing but rolling waves of sand all around. I still think about that view sometimes.

Afterwards, we tried sandboarding (I fell twice, laughed harder than I should’ve) and then met a guy holding a falcon — he let me hold it for a photo, which was wild. The bird looked right through me; I swear it knew I was nervous. Camel riding came next; slow and awkward at first but kind of peaceful once you get used to the swaying rhythm. The guide leading our camels told us how his family’s been working with these animals for generations — made me feel like just a tiny piece in this long story.

On the way back to Dubai, shoes full of sand and hair full of wind, I realized how much lighter I felt than when we left. Not sure if it was the adrenaline or just being out there under that huge sky — either way, it stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dubai Desert Safari Adventure

• Hotel pick-up and private 4x4 SUV ride
• Activities at Lahbab: quad bike or dune buggy ride, camel ride, photos with falcon, 35-min dune bashing, sand boarding and photo stop

Top questions

How long does the private Dubai desert safari last?

The experience lasts about 4 hours including pickup and drop-off from your hotel or residence in Dubai.

Is hotel pickup included in this Dubai desert tour?

Yes, private pickup and drop-off from your hotel or residence in Dubai are included.

What activities are included on this desert safari?

The tour includes dune bashing (about 35 minutes), camel riding, sandboarding, optional quad biking or dune buggy rides, and photos with a falcon.

Where does the desert safari take place?

The safari takes place in Lahbab Desert near Dubai, known for its red dunes.

Can I try quad biking or dune buggy on this tour?

Yes, quad biking or dune buggy rides are optional activities available during your visit to Lahbab Desert.

Is lunch provided on this private desert safari?

No lunch is included; however, all main activities are covered as part of your experience.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Will there be a local guide during the tour?

Yes, experienced local drivers and guides lead all activities throughout your desert adventure.

What’s included

Your day includes private pickup from your hotel or residence in Dubai by 4x4 SUV, guided dune bashing across Lahbab’s red dunes for about 35 minutes, an optional quad bike or dune buggy ride if you want more speed, time for sandboarding down the slopes (and plenty of laughs), a traditional camel ride led by locals who know their stuff, plus a chance to pose with a falcon before heading back to town.