Private Morning Desert Safari Abu Dhabi: Camel Ride & Sand Skiing

Al Khatim Desert Adventure: Sunrise, Camels & Sandboarding

If you want to see Abu Dhabi’s desert come alive in the morning light—and try sand skiing or camel riding with locals who know every dune—this tour is for you. It’s not just about adventure; it’s about those quiet moments with fresh coffee and sunrise views you won’t get anywhere else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Morning Desert Safari Activities

• A 4-hour desert safari
• Sunrise viewing from desert dune
• Explore Al Khatim desert
• Camel farm visit
• Sand skiing
• Camel ride
• Enjoy tea, water, and soft drinks

The Experience

The first thing I noticed was the cool air—Abu Dhabi mornings can surprise you like that. Our driver showed up right on time in a white Land Cruiser, still smelling faintly of last night’s sand. We left the city behind fast, and soon the skyline faded into endless gold dunes. There’s something about watching the sun creep up over Al Khatim that makes you forget your phone even exists. The light changes every few minutes—one moment it’s soft pink, then suddenly everything glows orange.

We stopped at a camel farm before most folks were even awake. The camels were already up, chewing lazily and eyeing us with that slow blink they do. Our guide, Khalid, handed out tiny cups of cardamom coffee and dates—sticky sweet, just enough to wake you up. Then came the real fun: dune bashing. It’s loud and bumpy, but honestly? You end up laughing more than screaming as the 4x4 slides down sandy slopes. Sand skiing was next; I wiped out twice before getting the hang of it. Sand gets everywhere—shoes, pockets, even my camera bag—but it’s worth it for that rush when you finally glide all the way down.

At the Bedouin camp, Khalid wrapped a scarf around my head (he called it a ghutra) before we climbed onto our camels for a slow ride across the dunes. The silence out there is different—just wind and an occasional distant bird call. We snapped some photos at the top dune while sipping sweet tea under a canvas awning. By mid-morning, the sun was warming up fast and we were grateful for cold water back at camp before heading home.

What’s included

Your tour covers pick-up and drop-off in a 4x4 vehicle from Abu Dhabi hotels, guided dune bashing, sand boarding (or sand skiing), a visit to a working camel farm, camel riding session with local guides, Arabic coffee/tea/dates at camp, water and soft drinks throughout, plus an Arabic costume photo op if you’re feeling adventurous.

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats availableNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditions

Operated by Desert Dreams Tours & Safari

Traveler reviews

4.39★★★★★★★★★★

18 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Is this morning desert safari suitable for kids?

Yes! Kids usually love meeting camels and playing in the sand. Just let us know their ages so we can arrange proper seats in the car.

What should I wear for sand skiing and camel riding?

Comfortable clothes are best—think sneakers or closed shoes (sandals fill up quick). A hat or scarf helps with sun and wind.

How early do we leave from Abu Dhabi?

Pick-up is usually just after sunrise to catch cooler temps and softer light in the desert—exact time depends on your hotel location.

Are food or drinks included during the tour?

You’ll get Arabic coffee, tea, dates, plus plenty of water and soft drinks at camp.