Dune Bashing in Abu Dhabi
If you haven’t lived the excitement of dune bashing in Abu Dhabi, trust us, you’ve experienced nothing yet! This one-of-a-kind drive over high dunes and soft sands is a journey worth taking at least once in a lifetime.
Owing to Abu Dhabi’s sub-tropical climate and minimum rainfall, any time of the year is a good time to engage in this activity. Numerous tours operate all-year-round that conduct these thrilling desert safaris.
The drive is often a safe one, as you ride with experienced drivers with the seat-belt tightly fastened, however, if you prefer a relatively smooth ride, you may ask your tour operator for a private vehicle and request a slower and smoother ride.
If you enjoy an adrenaline rush, the high speeds are what you should opt for! Choose a tour that takes you to popular locations like Sweihan and the Liwa Desert, which are home to some of the highest sand dunes in Abu Dhabi!
Tours also offer a host of activities like dirt biking, belly dancing, buffet dinners, sheesha, overnight camps and much more. So rest assured, the fun continues even after you jump over those dunes and make your way to the campsite.
If for any reason you’re facing a medical condition, or are pregnant and unable to go dune bashing, you can always choose the path less travelled, and head straight to the campsite for the other activities where your group can join you later.
Either way, there are many tours, with even more choices so that you can customise them to your preference. So if you’re planning a trip to Abu Dhabi, make sure dune bashing is on your list!
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Abu Dhabi Dune Bashing FAQs
What are the best places for dune bashing in Abu Dhabi for couples?
What is Dune Bashing?
Dune bashing in Abu Dhabi is a thrilling activity that involves driving over sand dunes at high speeds. As the wheels sink into the sand and driving over slopes is difficult, it requires a certain skill and vehicle to get past the dunes.
The activity is usually performed using dirt bikes, 4x4 vehicles, and buggies. Dune bashing generally lasts for an hour and is bumpy and exciting as you slip, slide, skid, spin and see your car literally flying over the dunes. You’ve got the hang on to your seats real tight, prepare for a few jerks and jolts, and lots of sun and sand!
How long is dune bashing in Abu Dhabi?
How much does dune bashing in Abu Dhabi cost?
What are the best places for dune bashing in Abu Dhabi?
Sweihan
Sweihan is at the border of Dubai and Abu Dhabi and is often called ‘Little Liwa’ since it is more of a learning ground before heading to the Liwa Desert. Sweihan has massive dunes and soft sands, therefore it is only advisable for trained drivers to drive here. Make sure you visit the sand dune named Naqrah here and keep an eye out for falcons and camels.
Liwa Desert
Meant only for experienced dune bashers, Liwa Desert is host to annual challenges and dune bashing festivals. It is the largest desert within the Arabian Peninsula with soft sands. If you’re a major dune bashing enthusiast, you must visit the Moreeb Dune, AKA ‘Terrifying Mountain’, standing 300m tall and at a 50-degree angle to give you the ultimate experience!
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What type of vehicles are used in Abu Dhabi for dune bashing?
Dune Bashing in Abu Dhabi is mainly done using three types of vehicles.
Dirt Bike - the most exciting way to jump over and surf through the dunes. But you have to be quite proficient and fearless for a dirt bike ride.
SUVs- Vehicles like the Jeep, known for their 4x4 off-roading capabilities, are some of the most common ones used for dune bashing. These are sturdy, manoeuvre smoothly, and can accommodate an entire group.
Buggy Rides - Buggies are equipped with automatic gearboxes and 4-Wheel Drive. This offers great speed and a smooth ride over the dunes. A buggy is usually a two-seater, so if you’re travelling as a couple, this is a good choice.
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Tips for Dune Bashing in Abu Dhabi
- Make sure your driver is well-informed and experienced.
- If you book a private car, make sure it is in good condition.
- Carry a good amount of chilled beverages to beat the heat.
- Lock your cars and fasten your seat-belts.
- Make sure you always go with a group, preferably a tour.
I am pregnant. Can I do dune bashing?
Dune bashing isn’t advisable for pregnant women. The rides can get harsh and take rough turns and huge bumps as they go up and down the high dunes.
If you have activities lined up at the camp area after dune bashing, you may choose a safe ride that drops you off directly to the campsite, where you can join the rest of your group.
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Can small kids do dune bashing in Abu Dhabi?
Although dune bashing in Abu Dhabi is quite safe, it isn’t risk-free and therefore not recommended for small kids. Often the rides can go high and plunge low, while even turning at extreme angles. The force and jerks aren’t safe for children, which is why dune bashing is often considered appropriate for teenagers and adults, but not for kids.
Are medical patients or people under treatment allowed for dune bashing?
If you are very keen on going dune bashing, you may consult a medical specialist before doing so. However, we wouldn’t recommend going on the ride if you are suffering from any medical conditions or taking any strong medication, because the ride may aggravate your problems.
Can I have a meal before doing dune bashing?
You may eat before going dune bashing in Abu Dhabi, but make sure you have a light and early meal. Do not consume anything that might not suit your system or lead to heaviness, because the off-roading is bumpy and you definitely don’t want to get nauseous.
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What precautions should I take before doing dune bashing in Abu Dhabi?
- Make sure you can endure the heat.
- Eat as early as possible.
- Ensure that your health is up to the mark
- Prepare yourself for short buggy rides and bike rides too
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Carry appropriate medicines along if you suffer from car sickness
- Always wear a seat-belt
Also Read: Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi
Is dune bashing safe in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, dune bashing in Abu Dhabi is as safe as it is thrilling. The ride is bumpy and you may also experience strong jerks, but if the necessary precautions are taken, your driver is well-experienced, and you sit upright and well-strapped, the ride is an extremely safe one.
