Yes, it’s already October, and in Dubai that signals the start of outdoor adventures. From BBQs in the desert to scenic drives and wild camping, there are plenty of spots to light a fire, grill, and set up camp. As a family with school-aged kids, here are my top 3 favourite places to visit. Whether you’re new to Dubai or have friends visiting, these are epic desert drives around Dubai that you must experience. And the last one? It’s the most beautiful desert I’ve seen so far.
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- First, is the Red Desert located in the border of Hatta along Lehbab Road. The red desert is an endless stretch of red-orange sand dunes. Located just before Hatta and in the border of Sharjah. It is renowned for its stunning desert landscape. This destination offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Here, you’ll find numerous places to rent ATVs or quad bikes, allowing you to enjoy exhilarating rides across the amazing dunes. In addition to the thrill of off-roading, it features many spots perfect for lighting a fire and enjoying a delightful BBQ. However, it’s important to note that a 4WD vehicle is essential for navigating the rugged terrain and reaching these picturesque locations. I truly enjoyed my visit to this area for a desert safari, especially due to its proximity to the bustling city of Dubai. If you’re eager to explore but don’t drive or own a 4WD, there’s no need to worry. You can easily book a desert safari with GetyourGuide or any tourism company that offers guided desert safaris with groups. These tours typically include a delicious dinner under the stars, along with captivating entertainment, such as belly dancing, camel rides, and exhilarating dune bashing. It’s a fantastic way to experience the magic of the desert while enjoying the company of others!
- Next is the Al Wadi Desert in Ras Al Khaimah. It’s one of the UAE’s most stunning deserts, with its fine white and red sand dunes shimmering under the sun. Riding an ATV here offers a scenic adventure, and the sunsets are truly spectacular. Just an hour’s drive from Dubai, it’s also an ideal spot for glamping, combining natural beauty with a touch of luxury.
Glamping in the Al Wadi Desert – If you’re planning a road trip to Ras Al Khaimah, then head to the Al Wadi Desert. You can also elevate your experience with glamping in the wild. It’s the perfect way to blend adventure with a touch of luxury.
I’ve gone glamping several times with my family and it’s an experience I’d happily repeat. The glamping site is hosted by The Dunes. It is nestled in the heart of the Al Wadi Desert and have excellent facilities, plus it offers a wide range of activities for all ages. You can choose from various sleeping options, including the breathtaking heritage hut where you can have a private bathtub overlooking a vast desert. You can also opt to stay at the luxurious dome tent or the unique treehouses. For thrill-seekers, you can also experience adrenaline-packed activities like dune bashing and driving the ATV. It’s truly great for adults looking for an adventure.
During our stay in the heritage hut, we were delighted by the private bathroom featuring a bathtub and a scenic view of the desert. The evening activities provided great enjoyment, and we eagerly woke up early to ride the camels, feed the animals, and immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of the wilderness at dawn. We also enjoyed a hearty breakfast, and I must say, it was one of the peaceful nights I’ve ever experienced in the UAE.
- Lastly, the Empty Quarter in Abu Dhabi—also known as Rub’ al Khali—is one of Abu Dhabi’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Stretching across the Arabian Peninsula (Oman, the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Yemen), it’s one of the largest deserts in the world. With its stunning and seemingly endless dunes, it’s my favourite outdoor spot in Abu Dhabi. The landscape here is not only breathtaking but also rich in history and culture, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the raw beauty of the UAE’s wilderness. Adventurers can experience the thrill of dune bashing, camel trekking, or simply enjoy the tranquillity of this untouched expanse.
Back in March 2024, I took a memorable road trip with my kids to the Empty Quarter. We passed through Abu Dhabi and crossed the border into Al Ain. One of the highlights for all of us was spotting wild gazelles gracefully strolling through the desert—such a rare and peaceful sight. The serenity of the vast landscapes made the journey even more special, creating unforgettable moments we’ll always cherish.
We then went off-roading in the desert, where we climbed up gigantic sand dunes. However, the highlight of our experience was watching the sunset. There’s something truly special about a desert sunset—it’s both captivating and mesmerizing.
After that, we enjoyed a lovely dinner under the stars, courtesy of Emirates Tours. At the camp, we were treated to traditional Arabic dances. My kids had a blast sandboarding too. Sandboarding is an exhilarating adventure that lets you glide down the steep slopes of sand dunes, combining the thrill of “snowboarding” with the unique beauty of desert landscapes. As for me, what made the experience unforgettable was driving the ATV over towering sand dunes—it was epic! The adrenaline rush was exhilarating. Naturally, we couldn’t miss out on the camel rides and getting henna tattoos. Overall, the drive to the Empty Quarter from Dubai was absolutely worth it.
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These are my top three must-visit desert drives around Dubai that promise an epic adventure. Whether you’re visiting the UAE for the first time, hosting friends and family, or you’re an expat with relatives coming to town, a desert drive is essential. Experience the thrill of dune bashing, the luxury of glamping, and the raw beauty of Dubai’s deserts. These nature-filled trips are perfect for this time of year, as the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration and unforgettable desert experiences. Don’t miss out on more tips. Sign up for our newsletter and get a free itinerary download.
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