When you think of “Dubai” you think of lavish shopping malls, skyscrapers and fancy cars driving by – but there is a “different side” of Dubai. That is raw, wild, and takes your breath away – the Dune buggies in Dubai.
I know you’re thinking what he is talking about. That sounds cool. But what’s the big deal?” Trust me. It is not just cool, it is truly an epic adventure; it is an encounter that awakens you to feel more alive than you have ever felt. Like you’re filming your own action movie and when you get back you will never look at sand the same!
What is a Dune Buggy!!!
A Dune buggy is a small, open-frame vehicle meant for off-roading in a very particular way, sand dunes. Dune buggies in dubai are equipped with huge tires, loud engines, and basically zero doors aside from Velcro/removable seat belts. Dune buggy in Dubai are purpose built to hang out, and climb, slide and bounce around desert terrains.
In Dubai, the Dune buggy experience is truly elevated. These buggies are powerful, safe, and easier to drive than you would expect. You don’t need any experience to drive a dune buggy, you will feel like an off-road expert after two minutes driving one of these toys.
What should you expect on a Dune Buggy Adventure?
Here is what your day looks like:
You make a booking online, then someone picks you up from the hotel, and takes you to the dunes (which is normally lablab or al Beadier), and after you get to the dunes, you will do your safety talk. The safety talk will run you through how to drive the buggy, provide you with a helmet, and ensure the helmet is a comfortable fit.
What makes dune bugging in Dubai a blast?
You are in the desert and the sun is quitting the day, casting golden rays over the thousands of dunes that surround you, while you are strapped in to a buggy. There is a massive buggy tire below you and a huge roaring engine, so you cram the throttle, and boom; you are flying over the sand hills. That’s what you will feel when riding a dune buggies in Dubai. And a level of joy that is completely innocent.
Then the adventure is about to start.
Next, your guide will take you out into the dunes to follow them. There will be some large dunes to climb up and down, steep sides to ride along, and you might, if you choose to, go airborne. Your guide uses their judgments as to how much risk to take while making sure everyone has fun and is safe. One more thing, bring a size of camera (if you choose) stop to take a photo, maybe even sand board if possible and simply enjoy the scenery, following your guide, and the experience of being in a desert.
Some tours end with a campfire, dinner, and some live entertainment with some traditional music, only after all the things you have done so far!
Below do just some of the reasons people love it?
– You are the Driver: With a safari adventure, you’re a passenger that sits in the back and watches. With a Dune buggy, you’re in the driver’s seat, and have the speed, the direction, wherever & whenever you stop.
– Safe, but wild: No doubt you will be wearing a helmet, have a safety briefing, and have a guide. But once you leave the studio, it will be nothing but fun.
– The views are unreal: The desert scenery in Dubai is sensational – especially at sunrise and sunset! The colors, the sounds, the vastness.. It’s unique.
– It’s not just about driving: Many of the tours offer included stops like sand boarding, trips up to see camels, and BBQ dinners under the
Can you bring your family?
Absolutely. Dune buggy tours have family-friendly elements. Kids can sit in the passenger seat, while teen’s groups (generally over 15) are welcome to drive if they feel capable. There are 2 seat and 4 seat buggies so you all can ride together, you will need to check them out before you book. And don’t worry about safety. They are professionals giving these tours and they have you covered.
Is it safe?
Yes! 100%. There is a large emphasis on safety in Dubai especially when it comes to desert activity.
Here’s what you get:
• Qualified guides who know the best flight path and who look out for you.
• Protective tools – helmets, gloves, and perchance body armor.
• Well conserved vehicles which are subject to periodical checks.
And they don’t leave you to your own devices, the guide will be right behind you and usually there is a support team that you can call upon if needed.
What’s the Cost?
The cost will depend on the professional tour operator which will dictate the type of buggy, extras, and stuff, but here’s a very rough idea:
Some packages included hotel pick-up, snacks/refreshments, sand boarding, camel rides, a BBQ dinner, etc. Check what’s included always.
Where Can I Find Dune buggies in Dubai Spots?
There are a few desert locations in Dubai to ride the Dune Buggy:
• Lablab Desert: red sand with generous open space.
• Al Beadier (red dunes): steeper dunes and interesting terrain.
• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: a more eco-friendly experience with a touch of nature.
Each of these places has a different vibe, but all are really fun and will give you an awesome dune buggy experiences.
When is the best time to go?
Dubai gets hot and I mean HOT, so timing is important!
• October to April is the greatest time. The weather conditions are cooler and more relaxed.
• It is best to do the early morning or sunset tour. You will avoid the heat and it will be stunning.
If you choose to do a summer tour in the mid-day heat, as long as you like to bleat sweat it out, it should be OK.
Top tricks for a great ride.
Do you want your dune buggy tour to be memorable and a blast? Here are a few tips:
• Comfortable clothes. You will want lightweight and breathable materials, and closed shoes.
• Bring water. Something to keep in mind, especially in warmer kids is to stay hydrated.
• You might take a Goo or a phone mount into consideration. This is the safest way to capture the ride and you won’t be holding on to your phone for fear of it falling off during the ride.
• Listen to your guide. They know the way and want you to be safe.
• Book early. During limited seasons, tours fill fast! Holidays and special events will also fill very quickly.
Closing Thoughts
A dune buggy in Dubai is Historic, it is much more than just another tourist destination, it is memorable. It is something that will be remembered for many years to come. The thrill of driving a sand buggy, having the views to take in, the liberty to ride around and play, it’s an entertaining ride.
So if you are going to Dubai and want something different to do, leave the mall for one day. Leave the city behind. Get on the dunes. Feel the air. Allow the desert to reveal its enchantment.
Because out there, in the open air, the sand flying and your heart racing—that is where the real Dubai exists.
