Dubai: Private Morning Desert Safari Camel Ride & Sandboarding

Red dunes of Lahbab desert thrill ride camel trek sandboard sunrise

You’ll ride out early into Lahbab’s red dunes with a private guide in a 4x4 SUV for dune bashing thrills, a slow camel trek across shifting sands, and your first try at sandboarding (expect to fall). Water and refreshments keep you going before heading back to Dubai—still thinking about that morning light.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Morning desert safari with activities

• Hotel pick-up in 4x4 SUV
• Travel to Lahbab Desert
• Dune bashing in 4x4 SUV
• Camel ride across dunes
• Sandboarding on dunes
• Photography of sunrise and landscape
• Enjoy complimentary water and refreshments
• Return to hotel in 4x4 SUV

The Experience

I didn’t really expect the silence out there. I mean, you hear “desert safari” and picture wild rides and big laughs (which happened), but that first moment stepping out of the SUV—just dry wind and the sun barely up—kind of caught me off guard. Our guide, Ahmed, handed me a bottle of cold water and grinned like he knew what was coming next. The sand was cool under my shoes at first, then it started warming up fast.

Dune bashing is... well, it’s not for anyone who gets carsick easily. I held on tight while Ahmed zigzagged us over those red Lahbab dunes—he seemed to know every bump by heart. My friend kept yelling “again!” after every drop, which made Ahmed laugh even harder. At one point we stopped at the top just to catch our breath (and maybe let my stomach settle). The view from up there—just endless waves of rust-colored sand, with Dubai way off in the haze—I still think about that.

The camel ride was slower than I thought it’d be. The camel’s name was Sultan, and he looked as unimpressed by us as you’d imagine. Sitting up high, swaying side to side while Ahmed told us about Bedouin life—I tried to repeat a few Arabic words back to him but probably butchered them. He just smiled politely. Sandboarding came last; I wiped out twice before getting the hang of it. Sand in my mouth tastes exactly how you’d expect.

We finished with sweet tea back by the car (I’m not sure if that was part of the tour or just Ahmed being nice) and watched the sun climb higher over Lahbab. The drive back was quiet—everyone kind of lost in their own thoughts or scrolling through photos. There’s something about seeing Dubai wake up from that far away that sticks with you.

Top questions

How long is the private morning desert safari from Dubai?

The experience typically lasts around 4-5 hours including pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Dubai.

Is hotel pickup included for this desert safari?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Dubai hotel are included in a comfortable 4x4 SUV.

Where does the safari take place?

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

What activities are included on this tour?

You’ll experience dune bashing in a 4x4 SUV, a camel ride across the dunes, sandboarding, plus time for photos and refreshments.

Are refreshments provided during the safari?

Yes, complimentary water and refreshments are offered during your adventure.

Can infants join this tour? Are infant seats available?

Specialized infant seats are available but check suitability if traveling with young children due to activity levels.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers or those with health issues?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular conditions due to dune bashing.

What’s included

Your morning includes hotel pickup in a private 4x4 SUV, all activities like dune bashing on Lahbab’s red dunes, a traditional camel ride across the sands, sandboarding sessions (with plenty of photo stops), plus complimentary water and refreshments before returning comfortably back to your hotel in Dubai.