When people think of Dubai, they often imagine glittering skyscrapers, luxury malls, and high-end cars zooming down Sheikh Zayed Road. But during my recent trip, what truly stole my heart was something far from the city's modern appeal — the majestic Arabian desert and the unforgettable desert safari experience.

Planning the Safari
Before arriving in Dubai, I had heard a lot about desert safaris. Almost every blog I read and every friend I spoke to insisted that it’s something I must do. I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect — camels? sand dunes? maybe a falcon? But I booked an evening desert safari through a well-rated local tour company and eagerly waited for the day to arrive.

The company offered hotel pickup, so around 3:00 PM, a 4x4 Land Cruiser showed up right outside my hotel. Our guide, a friendly and humorous man named Rashid, greeted us warmly. I was joined by four other travelers, and after quick introductions, we were off to the desert — around a 45-minute drive from the city.

Dune Bashing — The Ultimate Thrill
Once we reached the edge of the desert, Rashid stopped to let some air out of the tires — something I learned was necessary for dune driving. Then, the real adventure began.

If you’ve never experienced dune bashing, imagine being on a rollercoaster — but on sand, with no tracks. Rashid’s driving skills were out of this world. He sped up the towering dunes and then let the vehicle slide down almost vertically, causing everyone to scream with both fear and excitement. At some points, I was certain we were going to flip — but of course, we didn’t. It was safe, thrilling, and wildly fun.

The golden sand, the endless landscape, and the adrenaline rush combined to create something magical. We stopped a couple of times to take photos, and let me tell you — no Instagram filter can match the natural beauty of the desert at golden hour.

Sandboarding & Camel Rides
After the dune bashing, we arrived at a desert camp set up in traditional Bedouin style. Here, I tried sandboarding for the first time. It’s like snowboarding, but on sand. While I fell (a lot), it was hilarious and surprisingly addictive. https://www.roaradventuretourism.com/desert-safari-dubai/

Next up was a camel ride. Although short, it was peaceful. Camels walk slowly and gently, giving you time to soak in the quiet surroundings. Their long lashes, calm eyes, and lazy pace made it feel like a scene out of an old Arabian tale.

The Evening Experience
As the sun began to set, the desert transformed. The air got cooler, the sky turned into shades of orange and pink, and the entire landscape took on a calm and serene vibe.

Back at the camp, there were refreshments — dates, Arabic coffee, and cold drinks. We were seated on low cushions around small tables under open tents. The setup was simple but beautiful, blending traditional Arabic culture with comfort.

Dinner was a lavish BBQ buffet. There was grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, vegetarian options, salads, hummus, bread, and more. Everything tasted amazing, especially after the adventurous afternoon.

Entertainment Under the Stars
Post-dinner, the stage came alive with performances. First was a Tanoura dance — a traditional Egyptian dance where the performer spins non-stop in a colorful skirt. It was hypnotizing to watch.

Then came a belly dancer, whose grace and control were impressive. She danced to traditional Arabic music, and her moves had the whole crowd cheering and clapping.

Lastly, a fire show left everyone speechless. The performer twirled and juggled fire like it was nothing, sending sparks into the sky. The desert, the night, the fire — it all felt surreal.

A Night to Remember
By 9:30 PM, it was time to head back. The ride back was quiet. Most of us were tired, full, and satisfied. I looked out the window, watching the desert fade into the distance as the city lights grew closer.

The desert safari wasn’t just a tourist activity. For me, it was a cultural dive, an adrenaline rush, and a chance to escape the fast-paced city life and connect with the raw beauty of nature.

Some Tips If You Plan to Go
Wear comfortable clothes – Loose clothing and sandals are ideal. The sand can get everywhere, so avoid fancy shoes.

Carry sunglasses and sunscreen – The desert sun is harsh, even in the evening.

Be cautious if you get motion sickness – Dune bashing can be rough, so let your guide know in advance.

Try everything – From sandboarding to henna tattoos, don’t skip the small experiences. They all add up.

Book through a reputed company – Safety is key, especially for activities like dune bashing.