How to Choose the Right Desert Activities for Your Abu Dhabi Holiday - Thrilling Dunes to Tranquil Sunsets
One of Abu Dhabi’s greatest attractions, the golden desert of the Gulf state, makes for an unmissable experience for all holidaymakers. Offering a mix of adventure, culture, relaxation, and breathtaking natural beauty, it is the epitome of desert holiday experiences. For those heading to Abu Dhabi, here’s how to choose the right desert activities for your holiday in the vibrant city.
Consider What Kind of Experience You Are Looking For
Desert experiences are not definitely one-size-fits-all. There’s a wide variety of activities to choose from, each catering to a different kind of “desert fun.” Therefore, it is important that you think about what you want your experience to be like before booking a desert excursion.A good starting point would be to figure out your priorities, which will point you to the right experience that matches your expectations, whether it’s adventure, relaxation, romance, or delightful family time.
Desert Activities
For adventure lovers, dune bashing is high on the list. Hop in a mighty 4x4 vehicle, as white-clad Arabs take you on a stomach-churning ride across rolling dunes. For avid adventurers who like to get behind the wheel, quad biking and buggy experiences let you tackle sand dunes at your own pace while enjoying spectacular scenery. If you prefer something low-key, sandboarding is easy for beginners to learn while providing plenty of fun and excitement.For families on holiday with kids in tow, Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of desert adventures suitable for all ages. From camel rides to henna painting and falcon photography, your options are plentiful.If you are a couple on a romantic getaway, the golden sands are a haven for intimate moments. Some of the most popular desert experiences include candlelit dinners under the stars, live cultural performances and sunset desert safaris.
Image via Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Choose the Right Time of Day
Desert excursions in Abu Dhabi are offered primarily in 3 sessions: morning, evening, and overnight safaris. It is important that you select the right time of the day, as it can significantly affect your desert experience.Morning safaris that start very early in the day and return to the city by midday are ideal for travellers with limited time. Also, early morning hours mean that you can enjoy cooler temperatures as well. Many morning safaris focus on adventure activities such as dune bashing, sandboarding, and quad biking.Evening safaris are by far the most popular, and it is not without reason. They offer the perfect mix of adventure, culture, entertainment, and local cuisine, complemented by spectacular desert sunsets. After a day of fun and excitement, retreat to one of the finest hotels or resorts in the vicinity; your options include Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.Overnight safaris offer arguably the most immersive desert experience — camping under stars, indulging in traditional meals, enjoying evening entertainment and waking up to breathtaking sunrise views.
Learn About Emirati Culture
Desert experiences aren’t only about fun and thrills. They also offer the perfect opportunity to learn about traditional Emirati culture and hospitality. Many desert camps offer authentic cultural experiences, including Arabic coffee and dates, traditional music, tanoura dance performances, belly dancing, falcon demonstrations and traditional barbecue dinners.
Safety Should Always Come First
Last but not least, always make sure to choose licensed and reputable tour operators with experienced drivers and well-maintained vehicles for a worry-free desert experience. It is imperative that you adhere to all safety instructions provided by your guides before starting the safari. And don’t forget to pack the usual tropical destination essentials for the trip — sunscreen, sunglasses and enough water.
Consider the Length of the Experience
Not all desert excursions require the same time commitment, so it is worth considering how much of your holiday you want to dedicate to the desert. Short experiences lasting two to four hours are ideal if you have a packed sightseeing itinerary, while half-day and full-day safaris allow you to enjoy a wider range of activities at a more relaxed pace. Overnight stays are best suited to travellers who want to fully immerse themselves in the desert landscape, with opportunities to enjoy sunset and sunrise views, traditional hospitality, stargazing, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the city. Choosing an experience that fits comfortably into your travel plans will help you make the most of your Abu Dhabi holiday.
