Tour Overview
Are you looking to explore the desert in a way that’s engaging, thrill-inducing and downright fun? Access this amazing Abu Dhabi morning desert safari!
One of the best times to explore Abu Dhabi’s neighboring regions is during the early morning. And that’s when the Abu Dhabi morning desert safari is taking place. You’ll embark on a 4-hour adventure that brings you to the Al Khatim desert, where you will enjoy activities like camel trekking, sandboarding, dune bashing, etc.
We provide you with excellent travel in a 4×4, and you will also go to the camp, where you can enjoy some coffee. It’s the ultimate and most fun desert adventure you can have, be it with your family or on your own.
Activity at a glance
Duration
4 Hours
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Languages
English
Pickup
We offer convenient pickups from all major Abu Dhabi locations.
Mobile Voucher
Use your phone or print your voucher
Booking
Reserve now & pay later
Experience Highlights
Highlights
- Race across towering sand dunes in a powerful 4x4 Land Cruiser
- Try sandboarding down smooth desert slopes
- Meet camels at a working farm and take a short ride
- Watch the sunrise paint the dunes in shades of gold and amber
- Sip traditional Arabic coffee with sweet dates at a desert camp
- Dress in traditional Emirati clothing for photos
- Capture stunning desert photographs during golden hour
- Return to your hotel by noon with your afternoon free
Full Description
The Abu Dhabi morning desert safari experience starts early, since the weather is a lot cooler, and you get to experience the dunes in their prime. Not only is this the perfect time for racing across the dunes, but you can also take photos and go adventuring in this immersive, beautiful place.
We’ll take you from the hotel early in the morning, in a 4×4 Land Cruiser, which is very comfortable, with AC and any other amenities. We are heading to the Al Khatim sand dunes, which are not very far from Abu Dhabi. And once we reach the dunes, you’ll enjoy a session of dune bashing.
We have experienced drivers who will help take you across the dunes with some smooth climbs and drops. Of course, it’s up to you regarding how immersive this can be; it can be a simple ride or a very adventurous one. You are free to choose the intensity of this experience.
Once that’s done, we will move onward to sandboarding, a chill and very relaxing experience, since you are sliding down the dunes on a board. Or you can enjoy taking photos of the desert, if you want. Unlike dune bashing, which is a thrilling adventure, sandboarding is family-friendly, and everyone is going to enjoy it. So even if you’re a beginner, you can attempt this without any hassle.
Then, our tour will take you to the camel farm. This is a very educational experience, because you will learn more about camels and how important they are for the Emirati tradition and desert people. Plus, you can enjoy a ride on a camel, which is quite an exhilarating way to browse the desert. You get to access an authentic camel-riding experience, and a safe one as well, since you will have experts with you all the way.
Lastly, we will take you to our desert camp where we have ready-made Arabic coffee, along with some refreshments and fresh dates. Now that you have gone through all those experiences and adventures, you can finally unwind and relax. Plus, the camp is where you can also try out some of the traditional clothes we have there, take some pictures, and also bask in the beauty of the desert the way you see fit. We’ll also take you to the scenic dune, the ideal place for taking pictures, especially in the late morning when the sand has beautiful patterns from the sun’s glow.
At the end, we will take you back to the hotel, thus finalizing an exciting morning filled with adventure. It’s amazing because you already did a lot and experienced the local dunes and culture, yet you still have plenty of time to enjoy the day. Whether you are a cruise visitor, a family, or a solo traveler, we highly recommend this exciting Abu Dhabi morning desert safari. It will only take the morning from your schedule, yet it will deliver outstanding, beautiful memories!
Includes
- Hotel, residence, mall, or cruise terminal pickup and drop-off
- Transportation in air-conditioned 4x4 Land Cruiser
- Experienced, licensed desert driver
- 40 minutes of dune bashing
- Sandboarding with equipment provided
- Camel farm visit
- Short camel ride (5-10 minutes)
- Photo stops at scenic locations
- Traditional Arabic coffee (gahwa)
- Fresh dates
- Cold water and soft drinks
- Traditional Emirati dress photo opportunity
- Professional photo assistance from guide
Not Included
- Breakfast (available as add-on for AED 35)
- Quad biking
- Dune buggy rides
- Gratuities (optional)
- Personal expenses
Cancellation & Booking Policy
Full Refund Guarantee
To receive a 100% refund, please notify us of your cancellation at least 24 hours before the tour start date.
No Last-Minute Changes
Cancellations or modifications made within 24 hours of the tour are not permitted and fees will apply.
Weather Protection
If we cancel due to weather or unavoidable circumstances, you'll get a full refund or an alternative date.
Advance Booking
Secure your spot early! Advanced booking is required, and all tours are subject to availability.
Know before you go
- Book at least 24 hours in advance for guaranteed availability
- Morning slots fill quickly October-March
- Wear closed-toe shoes; sandals are not suitable
- Bring sunscreen and sun protection
- Inform us of any health conditions when booking
- All passengers must wear seat belts during dune bashing
- Pregnant women cannot participate in dune bashing
- Not recommended for guests with back, neck, or heart problems
- Infants under 3 cannot join dune bashing (private tour only for camp activities)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The complete experience lasts approximately 4 hours from pickup to drop-off. You'll spend about 2 hours actively in the desert, with the rest being travel time to and from the city.
What time will I be picked up?
Pickup happens between 7:00 and 7:30 AM, depending on your location. We'll confirm your exact pickup time 24 hours before the tour. You'll typically return to your hotel between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM.
Is dune bashing safe?
Yes. All our drivers are licensed professionals with years of desert driving experience. Vehicles are regularly maintained and equipped with working seat belts for all passengers. However, dune bashing does involve sharp turns and bumpy terrain, so it's not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health conditions.
Can I skip dune bashing if I'm worried about motion sickness?
On private tours, yes. You can skip dune bashing entirely and head straight to the camel farm and camp activities. On shared tours, you're welcome to wait in a stationary vehicle during this portion (though most people find it less intense than expected).
Is the tour suitable for young children?
Children ages 4 and up who can sit safely in a seat belt are welcome. Many families bring young children and enjoy the experience. For children under 4, we recommend booking a private tour where they can participate in camp activities and camel riding while skipping dune bashing.
What if I'm traveling solo?
Solo travelers are very welcome on shared group tours. You'll join other guests in a 4x4 vehicle, which is a great way to meet fellow travelers. If you prefer privacy, you can also book a private tour just for yourself.
Do you provide breakfast?
Arabic coffee and dates are included as traditional refreshments. Full breakfast (eggs, pastries, fruit, juice) can be added for AED 35 per person when you book.
What's the difference between morning and evening desert safari?
Morning safaris focus on adventure activities during cooler temperatures. Evening safaris include sunset watching, BBQ dinner, live entertainment (belly dancing, Tanoura show, fire performance), and take 6 hours total (3:00 PM to 9:00 PM). Choose morning if you want activities and cooler weather; choose evening if you want cultural entertainment and dining.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you're welcome to bring snacks and bottled water. However, water and soft drinks are provided during the tour, and you're welcome to enjoy the included Arabic coffee and dates.
Are quad bikes included in the price?
No. The AED 179 base price includes dune bashing (as a passenger), camel riding, and sandboarding. Quad bikes (AED 150-300) and dune buggies (AED 450-700) are optional add-ons you can book separately.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, light clothing is bestu2014T-shirt, loose pants or shorts, and closed-toe sneakers. Avoid white clothes as they'll get dusty. Bring a hat and sunglasses. From October to March, bring a light jacket for the cool morning air.
How many people will be in my vehicle?
Shared group tours typically have 6-7 guests per 4x4 vehicle. Private tours give you exclusive use of a vehicle for your group only (up to 6 people).
Is hotel pickup really included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Abu Dhabi is included at no extra cost. This covers all hotels, private residences, shopping malls, and the cruise terminal at Zayed Port.
Can I book for tomorrow?
We accept bookings up to the last minute, but availability isn't guaranteed. We strongly recommend booking at least 24 hours in advance, especially during peak season (October-March) and on weekends.
What happens if there's bad weather?
Desert safaris operate in most conditions. We only cancel in extreme weather that creates genuine safety concerns (very rare). If we cancel, you'll receive a full refund or can reschedule for another date.
Are there bathrooms in the desert?
Basic facilities are available at the desert camp. They're simple but functional. We recommend using the facilities at your hotel before departure.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 24-48 hours in advance. During peak season (October to March) and on weekends, tours can sell out, so booking a week ahead is even better if you have specific date requirements.
Is tipping expected?
Tipping is not required, but appreciated if you enjoyed your experience. AED 20-50 per person for the driver/guide is customary for excellent service.
Can I change my booking date?
Yes, date changes are free if requested at least 24 hours before your scheduled pickup time, subject to availability on your new preferred date.
What if I'm arriving on a cruise ship?
Thatu2019s fine, we will take you from the Zayed port directly. In order to streamline things, we encourage you to let us know the arrival time and ship name, along with your name. Ideally, your ship should be there before 6 AM and depart after 2 PM.
