Dubai Desert Safari: Camel Ride, Sandboarding & Dune Bashing

Red dunes, camel steps and laughter on a Dubai desert morning

You’ll feel the crunch of red sand beneath your feet as you ride camels across Lahbab’s dunes, try wild dune bashing with an expert guide, and maybe wipe out (like me) while sandboarding down soft slopes. There’s time for photos—and quiet moments too—before heading back to Dubai with that desert stillness lingering in your mind.

Step-by-step itinerary

Desert adventure with camel ride and sandboarding

• Pick-up in 4x4 SUV from Dubai
• Travel to Lahbab Desert
• Arrive and enjoy red dune views
• Take a camel ride
• Experience dune bashing for 35-40 minutes
• Try sandboarding on dunes
• Stop for desert photos
• Relax and enjoy desert ambiance
• Return to Dubai in 4x4 SUV

The Experience

The first thing I noticed was the crunch of sand under my sneakers when we stepped out of the 4x4. It’s early but already warm, and the Lahbab Desert has this reddish glow that makes everything look softer. Our driver—Saeed—grinned at us and pointed out a line of camels waiting nearby. Their eyes are half-closed, like they’re judging us for being so excited. I tried to pet one (he snorted), then we climbed on and set off. The camel’s gait is… well, you feel every step, but after a minute I stopped worrying about falling off and just watched the dunes roll by. There’s something oddly peaceful about moving that slow out here.

I didn’t expect dune bashing to feel like a rollercoaster built by nature. Saeed cranked up some Arabic pop and suddenly we’re flying up and down these massive red hills—sand rattling against the windows, everyone laughing or shrieking (I’ll admit it). He kept checking if we were okay, but honestly it was more fun than scary. When we finally stopped, my heart was still racing. We tumbled out for photos—my hair full of sand—and tried to look cool with the desert stretching behind us. The light here is different; it makes even my awkward pose look dramatic.

Sandboarding was next—I wiped out immediately, which got a big laugh from Saeed and this kid from London who nailed his first try (show-off). The sand feels weirdly cool under your hands when you fall, almost silky. After that we just sat for a while on top of a dune, not really talking much, just listening to the wind and watching sunlight move across the landscape. It’s quieter than I thought it would be—even with all the tours around—and I kind of wanted to stay longer. On the drive back to Dubai I realized I’d been smiling for most of the morning without noticing.

What’s included

• Your day includes convenient pickup from your hotel or chosen spot in Dubai by air-conditioned 4x4 SUV.
• arrival at Lahbab Desert for camel riding among red dunes.
• an adrenaline-filled session of dune bashing with an expert driver.
• sandboarding down soft slopes.
• plenty of chances for photos.
• time to relax and soak up the quiet before being driven back comfortably to your starting point.

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by DXB TOURS

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Top questions

How long does the Dubai morning desert safari last?

The tour lasts several hours in the morning, including pick-up from your Dubai location and return after activities in Lahbab Desert.

Is hotel pickup included for this desert safari?

Yes, pickup from your hotel or chosen location in Dubai is included in a 4x4 SUV.

What activities are part of this Lahbab Desert safari?

You’ll experience camel riding, dune bashing (about 35-40 minutes), sandboarding, photo stops, and time to relax in the desert.

Are there safety measures during dune bashing?

An experienced driver leads dune bashing with safety as a priority throughout the session.

Can children join this morning desert safari?

Specialized infant seats are available; however, travelers with spinal injuries or pregnant travelers are not recommended to join.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; this is a morning tour focused on activities rather than meals.

Where does the camel ride take place?

The camel ride happens at Lahbab Desert among its famous red dunes.

Will there be time for taking photos?

Yes, there are designated photo stops so you can capture memories with scenic views of the desert landscape.