Sahra& BeyondInspired by the landscapes of the UAE — wear the wild side of it
Rolling golden dunes are the classic image of the UAE, and there is no better way to experience them than out in the desert itself — whether on a guided safari or a self-drive adventure. From the towering dunes of Liwa to the accessible sands closer to the cities, the spots below are where the desert is at its most spectacular.
This guide covers what to expect, whether to self-drive or book a tour, dune-driving safety and the best season to go.
A desert safari can mean many things: a sunset dune drive, sandboarding, a camel ride, an overnight camp under the stars, or simply a quiet walk among the dunes. The dunes change colour through the day and are at their most magical at sunrise and sunset, when the light is soft and the temperatures are bearable.
If you have a capable 4x4 and the skills, self-driving the dunes is hugely rewarding — but it demands experience, the right recovery gear and never going alone. If you are new to it, a guided tour or experience is the safer, easier option: someone else handles the driving and logistics, and you just enjoy the ride. Many of the dune areas in this guide work for both approaches.
Soft sand is unforgiving of mistakes. Lower your tyre pressures, keep momentum, travel in a convoy of at least two vehicles, and carry a tow rope, recovery boards and a way to re-inflate before tarmac. Tell someone your plans, carry plenty of water, and avoid the dunes in the heat of summer. If you are not confident, do not go alone — book a guide instead.
October to April is the season for the desert — comfortable by day and cool, sometimes cold, at night. Summer brings extreme heat that makes desert trips genuinely dangerous, so plan dune adventures for the cooler months and still carry far more water than you expect to need.
The Liwa area in Abu Dhabi has the tallest, most dramatic dunes, while spots like Big Red and the desert near the cities are more accessible. This guide lists the best dune locations with access and safety notes.
If you are experienced, have a 4x4 with recovery gear and travel in a convoy, self-driving is rewarding. If you are new, book a guided safari — it is safer and handles the driving for you.
Yes, with preparation or a reputable guide. For self-drive, lower tyre pressures, travel in a convoy, carry recovery gear and water, and never go alone. Avoid the summer heat.
October to April, when daytime temperatures are comfortable and nights are cool. Avoid the extreme summer heat.
Regular fit. A tonal embroidered sun setting over the dune ridges of Liwa. 230gsm organic cotton. Limited first run.
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