Dubai Morning Desert Safari: Sand Boarding and Camel Ride Review
If you’re looking for a way to experience the iconic Dubai desert without the full-day commitment or an elaborate evening show, this morning desert safari from Trawey Tourism might be just what you need. It’s a compact, fun-filled adventure designed for those who want a taste of the dunes, some thrilling activities, and authentic desert scenery—all delivered with great value and expert guides.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the dune bashing in the red sands near Lehbab offers a rollercoaster ride through the dunes that’s perfect for adrenaline lovers. Second, the sandboarding is a simple but exciting way to add some adventure, especially if you’ve never tried it before. Third, the short camel ride adds a classic desert touch, making you feel like a true explorer.
A possible drawback? The tour only covers about 2 to 4 hours, so if you’re craving an in-depth desert experience or sunset views, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, it’s a morning trip, so those who prefer afternoon or evening adventures might want to look elsewhere.
This experience works best for travelers who value quick, fun, and affordable desert adventures. It’s perfect for those with limited time, families with kids, or anyone new to Dubai looking for an authentic taste of desert life without the hefty price tag.
Key Points
- Short but Sweet: A 4-hour, half-day trip perfect for a quick desert escape.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Ashik, Mujeeb, and Mohammed Jameel ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Authentic Activities: Dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides create a well-rounded desert adventure.
- Great Value: At just $45 per person, it offers a lot of fun for the price—many reviews highlight how it’s worth every dirham.
- Flexible & Customizable: Optional quad biking and private tours allow for a bit of personalization.
- Customer Satisfaction: With a 5.0/5 rating from 260 reviews, it’s a highly recommended choice for travelers seeking reliable, enjoyable desert fun.
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An In-Depth Look at the Dubai Morning Desert Safari
Getting There & Transport
One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the pick-up and drop-off service from anywhere within Dubai city limits. The transportation is by air-conditioned SUV, which adds to comfort, especially considering the 45-minute drive from the city to the desert. This means no stressful transfers or worrying about how to get to the dunes; everything is taken care of, and the guides are praised for punctuality—like Usman, who is noted for his friendliness and timely service.
If your accommodation lies outside Dubai city limits, be aware that pickup might not be available, so you might need to arrange your own transport or choose a different tour.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Stop 1: Lahbab
This is where the entire adventure kicks off. Located near the famous Lehbab dunes, this area is renowned for its high red sand dunes—a perfect playground for thrill-seekers. Your guide will drive you into the desert for about 45 minutes, giving you ample time to settle in and prepare for the activities ahead.
Dune Bashing
The highlight for many is the dune bashing. This activity involves a skilled driver taking the 4WD vehicle over the steep, rolling dunes, providing a rollercoaster-like experience. Several reviews mention how Jackson, in particular, delivered an exciting ride, making the experience safe yet exhilarating. The views during dune bashing are spectacular—imagine yourself surrounded by endless golden sands, with the setting or rising sun adding color to the landscape (especially if you opt for the sunset option).
Sandboarding
Next up is sandboarding, which is surprisingly simple but loads of fun. The shallow slopes are perfect for beginners, and reviewers mention that even those who are a bit nervous can enjoy it. It’s a great way to challenge yourself, and the laughter from trying to stand on a board on shifting sand is priceless.
Camel Ride
The camel ride offers a brief but authentic taste of desert life. Although short, it’s a lovely photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the surroundings. Some reviews appreciated how guides like Mujeeb and others took care to make sure kids had a good time, with one noting that their children “had a blast” and that guides were patient with little ones.
Optional Quad Biking
If you select the “quad bike” upgrade, you’ll get about 30 minutes in a large, fenced area for some quad biking—a favorite among thrill-seekers. Many reviewers found this extra activity to be “more fun,” and it adds a personal touch to the experience. Since it’s an upcharge, it’s worth considering if you’re after a bit more adrenaline.
The Experience & Atmosphere
While the tour is relatively short, it’s packed with activity and well-organized. Guides are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and professional, making sure everyone is comfortable and hydrated, especially during the hotter months. The tour’s small group size (maximum of 7 travelers) ensures you get personal attention and a more intimate experience.
Reviews highlight how guides like Ashik, Mohammed Jameel, and Shahid go above and beyond, sharing interesting facts and making the journey fun and safe. Many travelers also appreciated how guides took the time to take photos, ensuring everyone has memories to take home.
Value for Money
At $45 per person, this safari delivers excellent value. For that price, you get multiple activities, transportation, and a professional guide—all in an easily manageable half-day tour. Several reviewers mentioned how the trip exceeded expectations considering the cost, especially since it doesn’t include an evening show or dinner, which some find unnecessary or overly commercial.
Some also noted that the no-lunch policy was not a problem for them, especially since the tour runs for only a few hours, allowing enough time for the activities without feeling rushed.
What Could Be Better?
The main consideration is the duration—about 2 to 4 hours, which suits those wanting a quick experience, but not ideal if you’re seeking a comprehensive, sunset, or overnight desert adventure. Also, the lack of lunch might be disappointing for those expecting a full meal, though this is explicitly not included.
A minor hiccup mentioned in one review was the vehicle breakdown, which caused a slight delay and no lunch service, but overall, the guides handled it professionally and made it work.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This morning desert safari is best suited for travelers who want a short, exciting, and affordable desert experience. It’s ideal for families with kids, first-timers to Dubai, or anyone with limited time who still wants to feel the thrill of dune bashing and sandboarding. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a no-fuss tour with professional guides rather than a more elaborate or lengthy excursion.
If you’re after sunset views, luxury experiences, or a full-day adventure, you’ll want to explore other options. But if quick, fun, and authentic desert moments sound perfect, this tour hits the mark.
FAQ
Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided within Dubai city limits, making the process seamless.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a quick but packed desert experience.
Can I do quad biking?
Yes, quad biking is available as an optional activity for an extra cost—about 30 minutes in a large fenced area.
Is this suitable for children?
Many reviews mention children having a good time, especially with guides being patient. The activities are short and manageable for kids.
Is there a sunset view?
Sunset viewing is available only if you opt for the evening tour. The morning trip does not include this feature.
What is included in the price?
Transportation, dune bashing, sandboarding, a short camel ride, mineral water, and the guidance of licensed professionals are included. Lunch, dinner, or extra services are not.
Final Thoughts
This Dubai morning desert safari offers a practical, fun, and budget-friendly way to experience the iconic sands of the UAE. It’s clear from the high ratings and reviews that many visitors find it to be well-organized, enjoyable, and worth the price. The activities are straightforward but exciting—perfect for those seeking a taste of adventure without the time or financial commitment of longer tours.
The guides consistently receive praise for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendliness, which significantly enriches the experience. The inclusion of dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding ensures you’ll leave with a collection of memorable moments and photos.
While it’s not the most comprehensive tour out there, its focus on quality over quantity makes it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or travelers with a tight schedule. For those wanting a quick dose of desert fun, this safari hits all the right notes.
Additional Suggestions
If you’re interested in adding more activities, consider exploring the optional quad biking or private tours. For a more relaxed experience, you might opt for the sunset version, which includes the stunning desert colors at dusk. Either way, booking in advance is recommended, as this tour is quite popular—booked on average 11 days ahead.
To sum it up, this cost-effective, activity-packed desert safari is perfect for those who want a quick, authentic taste of Dubai’s famous dunes with guides who truly care. It’s a fun-filled escape that doesn’t skimp on the essentials, making it an excellent addition to any Dubai itinerary.
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