Arabian Adventure- Dubai Desert Safari

During a recent trip to Dubai I wanted to see what natural activities were available amongst the man-made metropolis. Where 30 years ago nothing more than a few houses and docklands buildings existed the explosion of Dubai is well known, although history and nature do still exist here, you do just have to delve and explore.

My five night stay in Dubai was just enough for a short break, with shopping, sunning and sightseeing, on one of those scorching afternoons with temperatures into the 40’s I was hurtling my way towards the Arabian desert in a modern 4x4. I had booked the trip online before even leaving the UK using my trusted Viator, reviews checked and money parted I was collected from the hotel lobby on time by a friendly guide.

The 4x4 only fits 6 passengers, previous organised trips I have been on in minibuses or even coaches in other countries there have been more passengers, so less people felt more personal, it also helped the rest of the passengers where friendly.

Acquainted, we hurtled along expanses of motorway towards an outstation near the desert, this was very much a stop to allow some tourist harassment but they did have toilets which after an hour and half travelling with constant rehydration, was welcome. We took refuge in the small air-conditioned room on offer, surreal considering we were in the desert. Amongst our group were other groups all arriving and leaving on various trips including desert safaris, it was a busy and chaotic place not the best experience if being honest.

Finally after what felt like an hour but must have only been 20 minutes we were back on our 4x4, tyres deflated we made our way to the start of our safari. At this point I felt disappointment set in; there were 20 or so 4x4’s similar to ours racing through the same dunes. I came to appreciate that we would not be the only ones here but the scale and number of cars did initially shock me.

This was quickly forgotten though as we accelerated vertical up an impossibly high sand dune, skidding near the top and being thrown briefly from your seat and accelerating down. The driver had expert skill, manoeuvring and accelerating at just the right points to stimulate fear and exhilaration. The landscape was stunning with miles of sand into the horizon and no buildings, no life in sight. There was a convoy of 4 in our group as we stopped to take some stunning pictures and attempt to sand board. Word of advice if you try the sand boarding expect to fall, expect a long walk back up and expect sand EVERYWHERE. Give it a try though, was extremely fun!

Some more sand dune bashing to use the correct terminology followed, this lasted for in total about 20-25 minutes. This sounds like a short time but trust me, after 20 minutes you have had your fill this is more than enough time. We then rejoined the motorway heading for the second part of the adventure an evening meal and show in the desert.

A manmade square walled construction in the desert with seating surrounding a square stage, the walls reminded me of a fort with no buildings on the inside just the walls remaining. There must have been at least 150 people here, but due to the size it did not feel cramped; our 4x4 group where allocated a table together so by this point it was nice to sit with some people I knew. In the camp there were various activities to try some at a cost, some for free. The camel ride, shisha, henna tattoo and picture with the falcon where surprisingly all included and offered a good taste of culture as did the free Arabic coffee and dates on arrival.

I gave the Shisha a try; this was a nice experience for me as this was my first time, the surroundings where perfect under the stars in the desert. It is worth heading out the camp just before sunset, you get some amazing views of the sun setting in the distance and some amazing photo opportunities.

Food was served with a good variety of Arabic dishes to try no burgers or chips here, so fussy eaters and children may struggle. Some of the food on offer included rice, chicken, pasta and salads, lamb and beef stews. The food was hearty and tasty and more importantly didn’t result in any upset stomachs. Cakes are served after the hot food and offer some interesting varieties traditional of course and very sweet.

Following this the entertainment starts, for us it was a swirling dance show which was impressive and entertaining something you are unlikely to see again. The show lasted for 20 minutes then we departed for our 4x4 and completed an hour or so journey back to the heights of Dubai.

If you are in Dubai I would recommend this activity, there are tourist selling traps which do dampen your enjoyment but overall the scenery, sand dune bashing and friendly people

made this a really memorable experience for me, give it a try.