While Abu Dhabi is filled with modern luxuries such as skyscrapers, shopping malls and 5-star resorts—the Arabic city is surrounded by expanses of sandy desert landscapes, just waiting to be explored!

Desert safari day trips from Abu Dhabi provide the perfect opportunity to step away from the hustle and bustle of the city for the day and experience the region’s incredible natural beauty.

The desert area surrounding Abu Dhabi has so much more to offer than just vast expanses filled with sand dunes, and you’ll get to see wildlife and experience local traditions!

Here's all you need to know about desert safari, one of the most exciting day trips from Abu Dhabi.

How to get to the desert from Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi is surrounded by the Arabian Desert, also known as the Empty Quarter or Rub Al Khali. Most desert safari activities take place roughly 100 kilometers from Abu Dhabi’s city center.

From Abu Dhabi to the desert by car

It is possible to drive out into the desert from Abu Dhabi, but it is essential that you make this journey in a 4x4 if you want to make the most out of the experience and avoid getting stuck in the sand dunes.

There are many places that you can visit within the desert, but there are also vast expanses where not much exists. It is important that you plan your itinerary ahead of time and ensure that you have enough petrol for the entire journey.

From Abu Dhabi to the desert by bus

While you could use public transport to reach the desert, it may not be the best option as you’ll have to rely on bus schedules and the journey can be quite time-consuming.

However, you could take Bus E100 to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station 9 and then Bus E16 to Awir, New Shabia 1 if you want to reach the desert via bus.

Guided desert safari tour from Abu Dhabi

Guided desert safaris from Abu Dhabi are definitely the best way to experience the Arabian Desert and all it has to offer. Not only will you make your way into the desert in a comfortable, 4x4 vehicle, but you’ll be led by a knowledgeable local guide.

Most guided desert safaris last between 4 and 7 hours, although there are a few overnight excursions that are also available.

What is the typical itinerary?

While each desert safari is slightly different, most begin with a complimentary hotel pickup from your accommodation in Abu Dhabi. Meet your guide and board a comfortable, 4x4 vehicle before making your way into the desert, admiring the magnificent views along the way.

Once in the desert, you’ll most likely be treated to a few activities, including dune bashing, sandboarding, riding camels, henna painting and traditional dancing. You’ll also enjoy a meal, typically an Arabic barbeque, during your time in the desert.

After around 3 to 4 hours of exploration and fun-filled activities, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in Abu Dhabi.

What kinds of desert safari tours are available?

When deciding what desert safari tour to book, you have a few different types of tours to choose from, including guided tours, private tours and even overnight excursions.

Guided tours to the desert from Abu Dhabi

Guided tours provide an affordable and convenient way to visit the Arabian Desert and experience local culture and traditions. As there’ll you’ll be joined by other tour participants, these excursions provide the perfect opportunity to make friends and meet new people.

If you don’t particularly enjoy large groups, you could always look out for small-group tours which are typically limited to around 6 people.

Private tour to the desert from Abu Dhabi

When you book a private desert safari tour from Abu Dhabi, you and your travel companions will be the only tour participants. This means that you’ll enjoy an intimate experience and receive personalized attention from your guide.

You may even be provided with the opportunity to customize the tour’s itinerary, including departure times, activities and more.

Overnight desert safari from Abu Dhabi

Make the most of your time in the desert by choosing an overnight desert safari tour. The campsite that you’ll stay in has an authentic Arabian feel and you’ll get to try sheesha, Arabic coffee and more.

Marvel at the star-studded sky, devoid of any light pollution, and soak up the peace and tranquility of the desert. You’re sure to have a good night’s rest.

How much does a desert safari day trip from Abu Dhabi cost?

Basic guided desert safari tours from Abu Dhabi typically cost around US$60 per person, including hotel transfers, for a group excursion lasting around 4-hours. Guided tours that last between 6 and 7 hours usually cost closer to US$80 per person.

Overnight desert safaris, which include all meals and basic accommodation in a campsite in the desert, generally cost around US$150 per person

Private desert safari tours vary in price and usually depend on how many tour participants there are on the tour, but you can expect to pay anywhere between US$200 and US$400 per person depending on the vehicle you go in and the tour’s inclusions.

What will you see and do?

There is so much more to the Arabian Desert than just endless sand dunes. On a desert safari day trip from Abu Dhabi, you’ll be treated to activities such as sandboarding, camel rides, traditional dancing and more.

Keep in mind that not all desert safari tours do and see the same things, and it's important to check tour itineraries before making a booking to ensure that they align with your preferences.

Sandboarding

The Arabian Desert is known for its steep sand dunes, which are perfect for sandboarding! Feel the wind rush past you as you fly down the dunes on a sandboard. This exciting sport is relatively easy to learn and you may be doing turns and other tricks in no time.

Instead of sandboarding, some tour operators may give you the opportunity to try sand skiing instead, which makes use of two long skis.

Camel rides

For centuries, camels were used as the predominant form of transport in the desert. This is because they can go for many days without water. Try camel riding for yourself and get up close and personal with these majestic creatures of the desert.

Camel riding presents the perfect opportunity for you to get a few photos of yourself in the desert to share with your friends and family.

Traditional dancing

There are two main types of traditional dancing that this region of the UAE is known for, namely belly dancing and Tanoura dancing. Tanoura is a type of folk dance, in which the dancer wears a long skirt that flares out as they spin in circles.

The talented belly and Tanoura dancers are sure to enchant you as they dance along to traditional Arabic music. The dancers may even teach you a few moves.

Henna art

Henna art is significant in Eastern culture and is used to celebrate various joyous occasions. Henna paste is used to stain the skin as the henna artists paint it on in a variety of different patterns.

Henna is typically used to decorate the hands and arms but can be done anywhere on the body.

Arabic barbeque

Most safari desert tours include either lunch or dinner and in most cases, this meal comes in the form of an Arabic barbeque, including shish kebabs, kafta and other types of grilled meat and vegetables.

In addition to Arabic barbeque, you may be treated to other local specialties such as Arabic coffee and tea.

Sheesha

Sheesha is an oriental tobacco pipe that has been enjoyed in the desert for centuries. It is known for being a social experience that is great for relaxing and chatting. Sheesha can come in many different flavors and is a lot softer on the lungs than traditional cigarettes.

While not all tour operators offer sheesha smoking, those that do provide a 100% authentic experience.

When is the best time for a desert safari?

The best time for a desert safari in Abu Dhabi is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and milder evenings, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities in the desert.

The summer months in Abu Dhabi can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C . Desert safaris during this time can be challenging due to the intense heat. If you decide to visit during summer, consider booking an evening or overnight safari to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Are there any other desert safari tours from other cities in the UAE?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in the UAE.

Travel tips

Wear cool and comfortable clothes and closed shoes.
Modest dress is required in public spaces.
Remember sunscreen and a hat.
Bring a jacket for winter evenings.
No alcohol will be served during Ramadan or on religious holidays.
Live entertainment may not be available on national or religious holidays.

Desert Safari from Abu Dhabi