10 of the Best Desert Safaris in Abu Dhabi 2024

Introducing the Best Desert Safaris in Abu Dhabi – Don’t worry, I’ve got it all in this article!

Venture into an unforgettable adventure with our latest blog post about the Best Desert Safaris in Abu Dhabi in 2024. As someone who has personally experienced the magic of Abu Dhabi’s desert, I’m thrilled to guide you through a created a list of the top desert safaris.

Each adventure is unique, from thrilling dune bashing to magical sunset camel rides. We prioritize experiences that emphasize safety, sustainability, and exceptional quality.

Whether you’re an experienced traveller or heading to Abu Dhabi for the first time , these safaris promise to amaze with their blend of traditional experiences and modern luxury (especially if you’re staying overnight in Abu Dhabi). Join us as we reveal the hidden gems of Abu Dhabi’s golden sands.

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My Top 3 Picks: Best Desert Safaris in Abu Dhabi

#1 Top Pick
Sand dunes in desert landscape at beautiful Sunrise. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The Sunrise Desert Safari In Abu Dhabi

  • 3 hours
  • Pick up & drop off
  • Dune bashing
#2 Pick
Tourists riding camels in Abu Dhabi.

Desert Safari With BBQ, Camel Ride & Sandboarding

  • 6-7 hours
  • BBQ Dinner
  • Tanoura show and Belly dance
#3 Pick
Desert camp at the Moreeb Dune in Liwa Oasis area. Emirate of Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates Middle East

Overnight Desert Safari

  • Overnight
  • Dinner & breakfast
  • Accommodation in Bedouin-style tents

10 of the best desert safari in abu dhabi

Sand dunes in desert landscape at beautiful Sunrise. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

1. The Sunrise Desert Safari In Abu Dhabi

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!

Experience the various thrilling desert activities in this Abu Dhabi Sunrise Desert Safari, even with limited time in the city. You will be picked up from the town and taken into the desert to enjoy dune bashing, camel riding and watching the sunrise from a breathtaking viewpoint.

Additionally, you can take part in a photo shoot and savour Arabic beverages at a traditional desert camp. The tour lasts 3 hours, allowing 6 maximum travellers per group. 

On time pick up with clean reliable cars were a great start to our journey. Once we reached the dunes our amazing driver Ubaid safely navigated his way through the rolling hills and to an amazing outlook to watch the sunrise over the desert. After watching the morning light over the sand we stopped by to enjoy some of the other activities such as sandboarding and camel rides before being back at our hotel for breakfast. Our group was under time constraints so this was a perfect way to get a taste of what is on offer. I will definitely be back for the afternoon evening experience.” – Tripadvisor Reviewer

Taking up only 3 hours of your time, this tour is perfect if you have limited time. Early before sunrise, you will get picked up in the city in a 4×4 vehicle that will take you to the Abu Dhabi desert. 

Upon arriving in the desert, you can embark on various activities. Experience dune bashing in your reliable 4×4 driven by your professional driver. 

Then, you can also ride camels as you appreciate the desert beauty and the sunrise from the horizon. Sip authentic Arabic coffee or tea in a desert camp, and you can also ask your driver for a quick desert photoshoot! 

Important details 

  • Start Time (and location): Your chosen time at your chosen pickup point in Abu Dhabi
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Includes: Picking up and Dropping Off by 4×4, Experienced safari Marshal, Sunrise in middle of the desert, Dune bashing session, Soft drinks and bottled water

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

Tourists riding camels in Abu Dhabi.

2. Abu Dhabi: Desert Safari With BBQ, Camel Ride & Sandboarding 

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 6 hours | ✅ Book it!

This tour is one of the best desert safari tours in Abu Dhabi to give you an exciting desert experience. Experience an array of desert activities all in one evening. 

You will begin your journey by driving to the desert, engaging in dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides. Afterwards, enjoy a brief camel ride to embrace the desert’s essence. 

Relax at Bedouin camp where you can do lots of activities. Have a buffet dinner, and watch Tanoura dancers perform. 

“This was my favorite excursion of them all. amazing experience. i loved the car ride in the desert, really enjoyed the sandboarding first time and would definitely do it again. the guide was amazing very professional and very attentive to our needs. would definitely recommend” – Reyna_R

Explore the Abu Dhabi Desert with an expert safari guide who will pick you up from your chosen location or hotel. Visit a camel farm and get up close to desert-adapted animals before heading to the desert.

You have 3 hours to spend doing dune bashing and sandboarding. Then, head to the traditional desert camp to unwind and savour traditional coffee and dates, immersing yourself in the Bedouin ambience. You can participate in henna painting and shisha smoking while waiting for dusk.

Embark on a brief camel ride to witness the desert’s enchanting beauty during dusk. You can also borrow traditional Arabic attire for a memorable photo opportunity.

Important details 

  • Start Time (and location): 2:15 PM at your chosen pickup point in Abu Dhabi
  • Duration: 6 hours 
  • Includes: Pick-up and drop-off from Abu Dhabi, Transportation by air-conditioned 4WD Land Cruiser with Licensed driver, Dune bashing experience & Sandboarding, Dune bashing experience & Sandboarding, Mineral water and soft drinks, Henna painting, Open buffet BBQ dinner (vegetarian & non-vegetarian), Tanoura show and Belly dance, Shisha pipe (free in the Shisha area), Traditional Arabic dress (for photos)

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

Desert camp at the Moreeb Dune in Liwa Oasis area. Emirate of Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates Middle East

3. Overnight Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner & Breakfast Abu Dhabi

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: Overnight | ✅ Book it!

With this overnight desert safari, spend an unforgettable night under the clear Arabian Desert skies. Go camel riding, sandboarding, and dune bashing in the golden landscapes. 

The tour includes a barbecue buffet dinner and live entertainment featuring belly dancers. You have your comfortable Bedouin-style tents for a peaceful night’s rest. Breakfast and convenient transport services are also included in your tour, making it a hassle-free and memorable desert experience!

“Incredible and magic experience. We decided to choose the overnight option, which offers a full experience of the desert from sunset to sunrise. The camp was terrific, food great and tend comfortable. Special mentions for our guideman Unni, he is a good driver (we felt safe during desert safari) friendly, he gave us good advices for our days in Abu Dhabi and he is a great photographer.” – Tripadvisor Reviewer

Exploring the vast expanse of the Abu Dhabi desert is already a thrilling adventure, but this overnight tour takes your desert safari experience to new heights. You will get picked up at your hotel at 4:00 in the afternoon and head to the desert.

You can start your desert experience by doing a camel ride, followed by sandboarding. Your driver will also take you dune bashing aboard a 4×4 vehicle. 

When night falls, you’ll witness the mesmerising stars illuminating the sky above you. You’ll enjoy a barbecue buffet dinner before sleeping in your comfortable Bedouin-style tents. More than that, you’ll be treated to an Arabian breakfast in the morning before returning to the city. 

Important details 

  • Start Time (and location): 4:00 PM at your chosen pickup point in Abu Dhabi
  • Duration: Overnight
  • Includes: Dinner, Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, Sufi Dance Show (available only during the month of Ramadan), Camel Riding & Sand Boarding, Henna Paintings & Shisha Smoking, Accommodation in Bedouin-style tents (beds, pillows and blankets), Dune bashing by 4X4 Land Cruiser

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

ABU DHABI UAE - Desert safari in Dubai United Arab Emirates. Dune bashing by a 4x4 car is a very popular activity.

4. Safari Half-Day Adventure From Abu Dhabi

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 5 hours | ✅ Book it!

During this desert safari from Abu Dhabi, you will traverse the Arabian desert in a 4×4 Land Cruiser through the Al Khatim area. Drive up and down the dunes accompanied by a professional driver and witness the sun set over the horizon. 

Take a camel ride, try sandboarding, receive belly dancing instruction, and engage in more exciting activities. The tour also includes a barbecue dinner, complimentary drinks and live performances. 

“This was a great tour with lots of inclusions you would normally be expected to pay extra for eg henna tattoos,camel ride and Shisha pipe tasting. The 4wd in the sand dunes made the heart race for sure Our guide was a great guy who showed a lot of patience with another couple who made us wait an extended time” – David_F

If you only have half a day to spare and want to experience an evening desert safari, this tour is a must-try. Before visiting a camel farm, you will go on a thrilling dune drive to the Al Khatim region.

Then, do camel rides and sandboarding in the mesmerising dunes. You’ll also watch Tanoura dance and belly dancing performances. Remember to capture memorable photos during this one-of-a-kind experience!

Other activities include shisha smoking, having henna tattoos, and borrowing Arabic attire. For dinner, indulge in an Arabic barbecue buffet with vegetarian options.

Important details 

  • Start Time (and location): 3:00 PM at your chosen pickup point in Abu Dhabi
  • Duration: 5 hours
  • Includes: Beverages, Bottled water, Dinner, Camel Ride, Henna Tattoo, Shisha, Belly Dancing, Sand Boarding, Hotel pickup and drop-off

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

Quad bike riding station in the desert near Dubai. United Arab Emirates Middle East

5. Half-Day Desert Safari From Abu Dhabi

⭐️ RATING: 5/5  | ⏳ LENGTH: 6 hours | ✅ Book it!

This tour is a good option if you’re looking for the cheapest desert safari in Abu Dhabi. Encounter the Abu Dhabi desert on this 6-hour desert safari, where pickup and drop-off services are included. 

During the half-day tour, you’ll try the anticipated desert activities like sandboarding, dune bashing, and camel riding. Buffet dinner, non-alcoholic beverages, and live performances are also included in the tour. 

“The entire trip was a great experience with really good drivers and entertainment. Everyone was friendly and created a good atmosphere. Would highly recommend layers for clothing as the desert was chilly in the evening between the wild and temperature drop.” – Todd_W

Start the tour by getting picked up at any hotels or major malls in Abu Dhabi. Embry on dune bashing at the pristine Abu Dhabi desert with your driver.

You can do other activities like riding a camel and sandboarding. In the evening, an unlimited Arabian buffet dinner is served. You’ll also witness a belly dance or a fire show; remember to capture these beautiful moments!

Important details 

  • Start Time (and location): 3:00 PM at your chosen pickup point in Abu Dhabi
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Includes: Hotel/Cruise Terminal pickup and drop-off, Dune Drive Safari, Camel Farm Visit, Camel Riding, Sand Boarding, Falcon For Taking Picture, Coffee and/or Tea, Bottled water, Belly Dance Show Or Fire Show, Dinner, Arabic Costume for taking picture, Tanoura Dance

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

Group of Camels in the liwa desert in Abu Dhabi

6. Abu Dhabi: 4-Hour Morning Desert Safari With Camel Ride And Sandboarding

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!

This morning desert safari tour is action-packed, featuring dune bashing, sandboarding, and a captivating camel ride across stunning dunes. You’ll travel in a robust 4WD Land Cruiser to reach off-road desert locations. 

The tour includes hotel pickup and bottled water for your convenience. The tour only lasts 4 hours, which is best for those with a tight schedule. 

“I had the pleasure of being guided by Kamar, an exceptional tour guide. He not only showed us around and drove skillfully, but he also went above and beyond by capturing photos and videos of us during the different activities. The dune ride was an absolute thrill, and the tour was incredibly enjoyable, great for solo travellers!” – Emily_B

You will embark on a 45-minute journey outside Abu Dhabi, towards the off-road desert area, where you’ll do many activities. First, do a thrilling 40-minute dune bashing in your air-conditioned 4WD vehicle. 

After your thrilling ride, you can go sandboarding down the slopes of sand and do a brief camel ride. You can also ask your friendly driver to take photos of you in the vast desert with the morning sun hitting you!

Important details 

  • Start Time (and location): 7:30 AM at your chosen pickup point in Abu Dhabi
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Includes: Pick-up and drop off at your selected hotel/location, Transportation by air-conditioned 4×4 Land Cruiser, Professional licensed driver, Dune bashing (30-40 minutes), Sandboarding, Camel riding, Mineral water

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

car driving in Rub al Khali Desert at the Empty Quarter in Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates

7. Abu Dhabi Morning Desert Safari: 4×4 Dune Bashing, Camel Ride And Sandboarding

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!

There are many things to do in the United Arab Emirates, and this Abu Dhabi morning desert safari is a must-do while in the country. Embark on a desert safari from Abu Dhabi and engage in an adrenaline-pumping adventure in the dunes. 

Visit a Bedouin-style camp within the desert, ensuring you beat the scorching midday sun. Ride and conquer the dunes in a powerful 4×4 vehicle and enjoy the breathtaking views of the rugged landscape. 

This experience was the best part of my two week vacation. Our tour guide was Gino and he was an absolute dream. So well mannered. He came to pick us up a little bit early and he called to let us know he was here but did not make us feel rushed. During the dune bashing I felt completely confident in his skills. It was so much fun. I actually rode a camel and had fun watching others in our group sandboard. I would recommend this tour to anyone and everyone!!!” – Karen_B

In the morning, you will get picked up at your choice of Dubai hotel or mall within the city. A professional driver will then drive you for your desert tour Abu Dhabi. 

You will go dune bashing along the Arabian desert with your skilled driver. You can also do sandboarding and quick camel rides. After your activities, you can cool down in the desert camps and enjoy refreshing beverages. 

Important details 

  • Start Time (and location): 7:30 AM at your chosen pickup point in Abu Dhabi
  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Includes: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Dune Bashing by 4 Wheel Drive, Short Camel ride, Sandboarding session, Light refreshments such as Arabic Tea, Coffee, Dates, Soft Drinks & Mineral Water

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

Heat day in desert landscape. Sand dunes at beautiful sunset. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

8. Abu Dhabi Evening Tour Desert Safari BBQ Camel Ride And Live Show

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 6 hours | ✅ Book it!

Abu Dhabi is known as a place to experience adventurous sports and its desert safaris. This tour takes a 6-hour journey to the Al Khatim Desert to share some of the most thrilling activities. 

Start dune bashing in the vast desert, and stop for photo opportunities. You’ll also visit a camel farm to interact closely with the majestic animals.  

Your group will reach the traditional camp before the sun sets. You can do camel rides, sandboarding, henna tattoos, and more photo opportunities there. 

Wonderful experience ~ our tour guide Haneef was exceptional. Had so much fun on the sand dunes and has a talent of great photography. He took time to make sure we were taken care of every step of the journey. The program was great, opportunity to ride a camel, drive atv, or sand board; there was a nice atmosphere to relax and enjoy the desert safari! Thank you for our trip memories!” -Tripadvisor Reviewer

Your group of 6 will embark on an hour’s drive before reaching your destination in the Al Khatim Desert. Before sunset, you will do various activities in the desert.

Some are dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. Take advantage of the golden hour because it’s a perfect time to take those much-needed desert photos!

At the desert camp, you can get henna tattoos, hold a falcon in your arm, and borrow traditional clothes for pictures. You will also have an authentic local dinner in the camp. 

Important details 

  • Start Time (and location): 4 PM at your chosen pickup point in Abu Dhabi
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Includes: Dinner, Dune Bashing, Camel Farm Visit, Sand boarding, Henna Tattoo, Belly dance and Tanoura show, Camel Ride, Pictures in Traditional Arabic costume, Coffee and/or tea, Bottled water

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES -Safari Hummer H2 Driving in the desert sand dune landscape Empty Quarter, UAE, Dubai.

9. Hummer Desert Safari Abu Dhabi

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 | ⏳ LENGTH: 6 hours | ✅ Book it!

Unlike most Abu Dhabi desert safari tours that use Land Cruisers for the adventure, this one takes you on a unique experience because you’ll be boarding a Hummer for your excursion. This also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t need to worry about transfers. 

Go dune bashing, camel riding and sandboarding at the desert camp. Other activities include henna painting and watching belly dancers perform. A barbecue dinner is also available at the desert camp. 

“Thanks to the straightforward booking process and excellent customer service, we were able to start our tour with ease. We had a highly experienced and professional driver who made us feel well taken care of. We were provided with delicious food and drinks, the show was also fantastic, and the atmosphere was enchanting. Highly recommended.” – Lisa

Experience the Arabian Desert terrain with a touch of luxury on a Hummer desert safari tour in Abu Dhabi. The tour’s highlight is the exciting dune bashing paired with a picturesque view of the vast desert. 

Your desert tour Abu Dhabi continues at the desert camp, giving you an immersive Arabic experience, complete with Arabic music, mesmerising belly dancing, Tanura dancing, shisha sessions, camel rides, and more. After all that fun, a savoury Arabian barbecue dinner awaits you. 

Important details 

  • Start Time (and location): 3:00 PM at your chosen pickup point in Abu Dhabi
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Includes: Hotel Pick From Hotel by Hummer H2, Dune bashing in Hummer SUV, Camel riding and sunset photo opportunity, Henna designing, Arabic dress photography, Hookah or shisha smoking, BBQ dinner with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, Belly dancing ( During Ramadan and Dry Days not Available), Washroom facilities for men and women, Hotel Drop off

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

A dune landscape in the Rub al Khali or Empty Quarter. Straddling Oman Saudi Arabia the UAE and Yemen this is the largest sand desert in the world.

10. Private Sunrise Desert Safari Abu Dhabi

⭐️ RATING:  | ⏳ LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!

If you only have a little time to spend on a journey through the desert, consider booking this tour. Travel to the Abu Dhabi desert and witness the first rays of sunlight hit the desert floor. 

Upon arriving at the desert camp, find the perfect vantage point to witness the scenic view of dawn in the desert. Remember to capture the perfect moment!

Embark on a dune-bashing escapade in a rugged land cruiser, conquering the golden dunes before returning to the city. 

This is a private desert safari Abu Dhabi, so you’ll only be joined by your, ensuring intimacy throughout your journey. Sunlight is like no other in the desert with unobstructed views, so take selfies and capture the golden moment. 

You can go dune-bashing to pump your adrenaline levels. You can also go sandboarding and camel riding in the area. After tiring moments, you can indulge in refreshing drinks at the traditional Arabic camp. Arabian dresses are also available to take for photo opportunities. 

If you’re looking for an Abu Dhabi desert safari without dune bashing, you can opt out of is on this tour as it is a private tour.

Important details 

  • Start Time (and location): Your chosen schedule at your chosen pickup point in Abu Dhabi 
  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Includes: Transport in 4×4 vehicle, Visit the camel farm, Dune bashing session, Camel riding session, Arabic coffee, tea and dates, Water and Soft Drinks, Arabic Costume Photoshoot, Sandboarding & skiing, Visit the Traditional Arabic Camp

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

FAQs About desert safari tour abu dhabi

The best time to enjoy a desert safari in Abu Dhabi is during the cooler months, typically from October to April. During this period, the weather is more pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F), making outdoor activities like sandboarding, camel rides, and evening barbecues more enjoyable. Summers in Abu Dhabi can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F), which might be less comfortable for outdoor adventures.

For a desert safari, it’s recommended to dress in comfortable, light, and breathable clothing. Long pants and a light long-sleeved shirt can help protect your skin from the sun and sand. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for additional sun protection. Comfortable closed-toe shoes are ideal for walking on sand. It’s also advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater, as desert temperatures can drop significantly in the evening. Don’t forget your camera to take all the photos!

Yes, desert safaris in Abu Dhabi are generally suitable for all ages, including children and elderly travellers. However, it’s important to choose the right type of safari to suit their comfort and health needs. For instance, gentle camel rides and cultural experiences at a Bedouin camp might be more appropriate for families with young children or elderly travelers, rather than high-adrenaline activities like dune bashing. Always check with the safari provider about age restrictions or health advisories for specific activities.

Final Thoughts: best desert safari in uae

As we wrap up about desert safaris in Abu Dhabi, remember that each one is special. Whether you’re excited for fast rides over sand dunes or just want to watch a beautiful sunset in the desert, there’s something for everyone.

These trips are not just fun; they let you see and feel a part of the local culture. Whether you love adventure or just want to relax, you’ll find the perfect safari in Abu Dhabi.

And the memories? They’ll stay with you long after you leave. So, get ready for an amazing experience. The desert is waiting to show you its wonders. Keep exploring and enjoy every moment!

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Author

  • Angelica Peralta

    Meet Angelica, who at 22, boldly pivoted from a legal career to pursue her passions in travel and writing. With a focus on sustainable travel, she has explored Asia and Europe, emphasizing local cultural engagement along the way | Specializing in digital nomad travel, crafting comprehensive itineraries, identifying top tour guides, sharing regional insights on Asia, The Americas, and Europe, and advising on eco-friendly travel practices.

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