If you think the desert is just an endless sea of sand, let Dubai prove you delightfully wrong. Just a short drive from the glitzy skyscrapers and mega malls of the city, the Arabian Desert opens up into a golden playground of adventure, tradition, and wonder.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker chasing adrenaline or a slow traveler craving quiet moments under the stars, the Dubai desert has something for you. My time exploring the sands was nothing short of magical. I ziplined over dunes, sipped Arabic coffee beside a fire, and watched the sun rise from a hot air balloon — and that’s just the beginning.

If you’re planning your first Dubai desert adventures or looking to return for more, here are the absolute best things to do in the Arabian Sands near Dubai.

Table of Contents

Top Dubai Desert Activities

1. Desert Safari (Morning, Evening & Overnight)

A desert safari is the ultimate Dubai experience. Whether you go for a sunrise drive or a starlit overnight escape, it’s a must-do. Morning safaris often include dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides, while evening options add in dinner, dancing, and storytelling around the fire. Overnight safaris? They’re pure magic.

Picture sleeping in a Bedouin-style tent under a blanket of stars. Most tours also include transfers from your hotel, so it’s an easy adventure to fit into your schedule. I did both a morning and evening trip — each was unforgettable in its own way. Pro tip: book with a reputable guide to get a mix of thrill and cultural immersion.

2. Dune Bashing in a 4×4

Dune Bashing Dubai Desert — *Ctredit: IG(ruizidejia)*

Hold on tight — dune bashing is like a rollercoaster ride on sand! With an expert driver at the wheel, you’ll fly up and down massive dunes in a 4×4, skidding and sliding in the most thrilling way. It’s a core part of most desert safaris, but some companies also offer standalone sessions if you’re only after the adrenaline.

I couldn’t stop laughing and squealing the whole time. It’s fast, fun, and surprisingly smooth — and yes, the desert views from those dune peaks are unreal. Wear a scarf or bring one along to keep the sand out of your hair!

3. Camel Riding Experiences

Slow things down with a ride on the original desert SUV — the camel. Camel rides offer a quiet, swaying journey across the dunes and are a peaceful way to connect with the environment.

Many safaris offer short camel treks as part of the experience, but you can also book longer rides through the desert, which give you a real taste of Bedouin travel traditions.

My ride at golden hour, with the sun casting long shadows over the sand, felt like something out of a storybook. Camels are gentle giants, and the handlers are usually happy to share stories and take photos.

4. Sandboarding & Quad Biking

If you’ve ever tried snowboarding, swap the snow for sand and you’ve got sandboarding! It’s surprisingly easy to get the hang of, and you don’t need a lift — just a dune and some determination. Most desert camps have boards available, and even if you fall (which you will), it’s all soft landings.

For more speed, try quad biking. You’ll zoom across the desert on four wheels, following marked trails with the wind in your face. I loved the freedom of exploring at my own pace, though a guide is usually nearby to keep you safe. Wear sunglasses and a scarf — it gets dusty out there!

5. Falconry Shows & Cultural Demonstrations

One of the most beautiful and respectful ways to connect with Emirati heritage is through a falconry experience. Falcons are a symbol of pride and skill in Emirati culture, and watching one fly at sunset against the desert sky was deeply moving.

Some safari camps offer falconry displays alongside other cultural demonstrations, like Arabic coffee brewing, traditional bread-making, and oud music.

These moments give your trip depth and context. I even got to hold a falcon — gently, under the supervision of a trainer. It’s both humbling and fascinating to witness traditions that go back centuries.

6. BBQ Dinners Under the Stars

After a day of riding dunes and making memories, there’s nothing better than a BBQ dinner in the desert. Most evening and overnight safaris include a buffet-style meal featuring grilled meats, Arabic mezze, fresh salads, and sweet treats like dates and baklava.

There’s usually live entertainment, too — think belly dancing, Tanoura spinning, or fire shows. But for me, the real star was the sky. With no city lights in sight, the desert night glows with stars. I ate cross-legged on patterned cushions, sipping mint tea and feeling completely content. It’s the kind of dinner you’ll never forget.

7. Henna Painting & Traditional Arabic Performances

Want a little beauty with your adventure? Henna painting is a common treat at desert camps, especially during evening safaris. Local women create intricate floral or geometric designs on your hands or arms using all-natural henna paste. It’s painless, temporary, and beautiful. I kept mine for almost two weeks and got so many compliments.

While you wait for the henna to dry, enjoy traditional performances like Tanoura — a whirling dance that’s mesmerizing to watch. These performances often tell a story and are rich in cultural symbolism. It’s a lovely way to experience art that feels both ancient and alive.

8. Hot Air Balloon Rides at Sunrise

If you only splurge on one thing, let it be this. A sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Dubai desert is pure magic. You’ll lift off in the soft early light, floating silently above endless dunes and possibly spotting gazelles or camels below.

The air is crisp, the silence is golden, and the views stretch for miles. Most tours include breakfast in a desert camp afterward, plus optional falconry demos. I booked with Platinum Heritage, and it was worth every dirham. It’s not cheap, but the memory? Priceless.

9. Luxury Desert Resorts & Glamping

If roughing it isn’t your vibe, no worries — Dubai knows how to do desert luxury. Resorts like Al Maha, Bab Al Shams, and Sonara Camp offer five-star experiences in the heart of the dunes.

Think infinity pools overlooking the sand, spa treatments with essential oils, and fine dining by lantern light. Some even have private wildlife reserves where you can spot oryx and gazelle.

I did a night of glamping and couldn’t believe how comfortable it was — full beds, air conditioning, and candlelit paths to your tent. It’s the perfect way to experience the desert without giving up comfort.

Best Desert Safari Operators (Optional but Handy!)

When booking your adventure, choose wisely. A few top-rated companies include:

Platinum Heritage – known for eco-conscious, luxury cultural tours with vintage Land Rovers.
Arabian Adventures – trusted, mid-range safaris with great guides.
OceanAir Travels – fantastic reviews for value-packed experiences.

Make sure the company is licensed, includes safety measures, and aligns with the kind of experience you want — whether that’s thrill, heritage, or comfort.

Packing & Safety Tips

What to Wear:
Lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs (for sun and sand). Closed shoes or sandals with straps work best. Bring a scarf or shemagh for dust protection, and don’t forget sunglasses!

When to Go:
October to April is the best time. Summer months (June–September) can be brutally hot — like melt-your-sandals hot.

Other Essentials:

Sunscreen and lip balm
Reusable water bottle
Camera or phone with extra storage
Layers — desert nights get chilly!

Photography & Pinterest Ideas

The Dubai desert is made for content creation. Here are a few perfect photo ops:

Sunset over the dunes — golden hour is pure magic.
Bedouin-style tents and lanterns — super atmospheric for evening shots.
Camel silhouettes at dawn — peaceful and poetic.
Henna hands holding Arabic coffee — always Pinterest-worthy.
Star trails or long exposures at night — the sky truly performs.

Wrap-Up

The Dubai desert is so much more than a day trip — it’s a multi-sensory, soul-stirring experience. Whether you’re racing down dunes or sipping tea by firelight, the sands have a way of staying with you. I recommend booking in advance (especially for sunrise balloons or glamping), and trying a mix of high-energy and cultural activities.