Dubai: Desert Safari, Quad Bike, Camel Ride and Sandboarding in Dubai

If you are planning your holiday to Dubai, you might have heard about all the adrenaline-pumping activities that take place in its exotic desert, such as camel rides and sandboarding. While experiencing the desert is an essential part of experiencing the United Arab Emirates, you need to be aware of what’s involved and plan in advance to ensure you get the most out of your desert experience. In this guide, we’ll discuss what Dubai’s desert safari, quad bike, camel ride, and sandboarding experience looks like, and provide some tips on how to make the most of it.

What is a desert safari?

A camel ride? During a desert safari, you will normally be taken on a guided tour of some of the desert’s major attractions by a driver in a 4×4 vehicle, usually at sunrise or sundown. It’s likely that you will be joined by other tourists, sometimes in large groups of 8-20 people. The highlights of a desert safari can include dune-bashing (driving up and down sand dunes), wildlife spotting, traditional Arabic campfire dinners or barbecued seafood meals, views of camels wandering around the desert, and even belly dancing performances at certain camps. On this once in a lifetime adventure you can really get to grips with traditional activities, culture and customs.

Quad Biking

Quad biking is very popular among the adventure lovers who visit Dubai’s deserts. Quad bikes are essentially all-terrain motorcycles with four large wheels. During a quad biking experience, you will be provided with safety gear (and likely a thorough safety tutorial) before venturing out on an exciting tour of Dubai’s vast deserts. You will be taken to dunes with different levels of difficulty, according to your riding ability level. The speed limit enforced on quad bikes is usually 20 mph, but they are great fun for experienced riders.

Camel Ride

The experience of exploring the mysterious beauty of the Saudi Tunisian Desert on the back of a humpback camel is incomparable and unmatched. During a typical camel ride experience you will either ascend or descend sand dunes as well as explore some natural wildlife. The guides can also provide insights into the local nomadic lifestyle and teach you how to take care of camels.

Sandboarding

If the previous activities sound too tame for you, then sandboarding might just be the perfect option! It’s essentially like snowboarding or surfing, but on sand! During a sandboarding experience, you first need to learn how to secure yourself on the board as well as how to control your speed and direction when sliding down the dunes. It can take some time to get used to sandboarding as it requires different techniques compared to regular surfing – for example in sandboarding you preferably start sliding with your feet facing down to control your speed. However, once you get the basics down it can be quite rewarding as it’s truly one of those unique experiences that you’ll never get bored of.

Tips for getting the most out of your Desert Safari Experience

While all of these activities definitely have an appeal to them, it’s important to understand that they do require some degree of physical fitness. The best way to make sure that you don’t miss out on any part of your desert expedition is by planning ahead:

• Wear comfortable and breathable clothing that provides enough protection from the desert’s heat while complementing your safety gear.

• Make sure that you arrive with enough time before your activity starts – this is especially important if you’re taking part in organized tours as they are usually very punctual!

• Prepare yourself mentally for the adventure ahead as some activities can bring forth adrenaline-filled moments and others require more balance and concentration.

• Bring extra water with you as dehydration can be dangerous when out on the desert.

Conclusion

Dubai’s desert offers some exciting and unique experiences that cannot be found elsewhere – from sandboarding to camel rides, there’s something for everyone! To make sure you get the most out of these adventures, consider planning ahead and preparing yourself mentally for them before venturing out into the expansive desert. Finally, don’t forget to book your activities in advance with GetYourGuide – it’s always better to be safe than sorry! Start now and book your Desert Safari experience with GetYourGuide.

An Insider’s Guide to Dubai

Dubai is famous for its opulence and luxury, but there’s so much more to this beautiful city than its shiny buildings and endless shopping malls. As you explore this city, don’t just stick to the common tourist spots. Uncover the hidden gems, immerse yourself in local culture and traditions, and try local delicacies that will tantalize your taste buds. Here’s your ultimate insider’s guide to exploring Dubai, beyond the ordinary.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

Dubai is home to some of the most extraordinary manmade structures in the world, but some local gems you don’t want to miss are less known. A visit to Dubai’s old town will transport you to a different era, with its stunning architecture and shaded alleyways. Explore the Al Fahidi Historic District, which houses the oldest buildings in Dubai, to get a glimpse of the city’s history. For some outdoor fun, head to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, located right in the middle of the city, and spot exotic birds while enjoying a view of the Dubai skyline.

Dining Spots: Local Flavors

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and its cuisine reflects this diversity. You must try shawarma, a local favorite dish made with tender strips of meat and served in a pita bread. For something sweet, indulge in some luqaimat, crispy dough balls drizzled with date syrup. Traditional Emirati cuisine is served at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, where you can experience traditional dishes with locals and learn about the city’s customs and traditions. If you’re in the mood for seafood, head to Bu Qtair, a hidden gem in Umm Suqeim that offers fresh seafood in a no-fuss setting.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals and Customs

Dubai boasts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous is the Dubai Shopping Festival, which offers great discounts and entertainment for visitors in January and February. Experience the local customs and traditions by heading to the Dubai Museum to learn about the city’s history through interactive exhibits. You can also attend the annual Dubai International Film Festival to catch some of the best films from across the globe. Art lovers must visit the Al Quoz arts district that features galleries and studios, giving insight on the evolving art culture in the city.

Local History: Fascinating Stories

Dubai has a rich and unique history. For instance, did you know that the creek separating Bur Dubai from Deira was once known as the River of Dubai? In the late 1800s, the government was able to channel the water from the creek to create the city’s first water supply. Another fascinating story is that of the Jumeirah Archaeological Site, where archaeologists found evidence of human habitation dating back to the seventh century. The area was excavated back in 1969; yet, many people are still unaware of its existence.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Must-Do Experiences

For off-the-beaten-path experiences, try sandboarding in the middle of the desert, or even take a hot air balloon ride to experience Dubai’s expansive desert from above. If you’re looking for something more adrenaline-pumping, go for a quad bike adventure around the dunes or try your hand at camel racing, an exciting and ancient sport that is unique to the region. As the sun sets, a desert safari should not be missed, where you can enjoy delicious barbeque and live entertainment under the stars.

Dubai has so much to offer beyond the cliché tourist spots. Explore its hidden gems, immerse yourself in its rich culture and history, and indulge in authentic local experiences. Your trip to Dubai will not only be memorable but will also leave you with an insatiable craving to discover more, making you yearn to return and explore more.