A desert trip is on almost every UAE itinerary — and for good reason. Here is how to choose the right kind of desert experience and what to expect on the day.
Types of desert experience
- Evening safari: the classic option — dune drive in the afternoon, sunset photos and dinner at a desert camp.
- Morning desert trip: cooler and quieter, often with sandboarding or a camel ride.
- Conservation drive: a gentler visit to protected areas such as the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, with a focus on wildlife and Bedouin heritage.
- Overnight camping: stargazing, a camp-fire dinner and sunrise over the dunes.
- Deep desert: the huge dunes around Liwa Oasis are best on a 1–2 day trip.
How to choose
- Dune bashing can be bumpy. Choose a gentler option if you are travelling with young children, are pregnant or have back or heart problems.
- Ask what is included: transfers, water, dinner, activities and the group size.
- Check that your driver and guide are licensed and that vehicles carry proper safety equipment.
- Private tours let you set the pace and stop for photos whenever you want.
What to bring
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.
- A light jacket in winter — the desert gets cold after sunset.
- Closed shoes or sandals you do not mind filling with sand.
- A small bag to protect your phone and camera from the sand.
Respect the desert
Take all rubbish with you, keep to marked tracks where they exist and never disturb wildlife. A good guide will make the desert memorable without damaging it. Browse desert guides.
