World Peak Joy

Top Spots for Dune Bashing

• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: A protected area offering a sustainable and thrilling dune bashing experience.
• Liwa Desert: Home to some of the highest dunes in the UAE, providing a challenging and exciting ride.

Camel Trekking

A Journey Back in Time Experience the traditional mode of desert transport with a camel trek. Slowly traverse the golden sands on the back of a camel and take in the serene desert landscape. Camel trekking offers a peaceful and authentic way to explore the desert.

Best Places for Camel Trekking

• Al Marmoom Bedouin Experience: Combine camel trekking with a visit to a traditional Bedouin village.
• Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter: Explore the vast expanse of the Rub’ al Khali, one of the largest sand deserts in the world.

Desert Camping

Under the Stars Spend a night under the stars with a desert camping experience. Enjoy a traditional Arabian dinner, watch a mesmerizing belly dance performance, and relax around a campfire. As night falls, the clear desert sky offers an incredible opportunity for stargazing.

Top Desert Camping Sites:

• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: Offers luxury camping options with all the comforts you need.
• Jebel Hafeet Desert Park: Camp at the foot of the UAE’s second-highest peak and explore nearby ancient tombs.

Sandboarding and Sand Skiing

Surf the Dunes For those who love snowboarding or skiing, sandboarding and sand skiing offer a similar thrill on the desert’s dunes. Glide down the steep slopes of the dunes on a sandboard or skis for a fun and adventurous experience.

Best Dunes for Sandboarding

• Big Red (Al Hamar): A popular spot near Dubai known for its large, smooth dunes.
• Liwa Oasis: Offers some of the highest and most challenging dunes for experienced sandboarders.

Falconry

A Traditional Art Falconry is an integral part of Emirati heritage. Experience this ancient tradition up close by participating in a falconry demonstration. Learn about the history and techniques of falconry and even try handling a falcon yourself.

Top Falconry Experiences:

• Al Maha Desert Resort: Offers interactive falconry experiences in a luxurious setting.
• Falcon and Heritage Sports Centre: Learn about the significance of falconry in Emirati culture.

Hot Air Balloon Rides

A Bird’s-Eye View Float above the desert in a hot air balloon and witness the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes. The aerial view of the desert landscape, with its endless sands and occasional wildlife sightings, is truly magical.

Best Companies for Hot Air Balloon Rides

• Balloon Adventures Emirates: Offers a comprehensive desert ballooning experience with a gourmet breakfast.
• Platinum Heritage: Combine a hot air balloon ride with a wildlife safari for a full day of adventure.

Desert Safaris

A Comprehensive Adventure Desert safaris offer a complete desert experience, combining activities like dune bashing, camel trekking, sandboarding, and traditional entertainment. Most safaris also include a delicious BBQ dinner and cultural performances, providing a taste of Arabian hospitality.

Top Desert Safari Providers

• Arabian Adventures: Known for their professional guides and comprehensive packages.
• Platinum Heritage: Focuses on eco-friendly and culturally authentic desert experiences.

The UAE’s deserts are not just vast expanses of sand; they are rich with adventure and culture waiting to be explored. Whether you’re seeking thrills, relaxation, or a cultural journey, the Arabian desert has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, embrace the desert spirit, and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Happy exploring,