Dune Buggy Desert Safari

Al Badayer is where the sand turns properly red. Known to locals as "Big Red" country, this stretch of desert has the steepest, most photogenic dunes in the region — and this experience puts you behind the wheel of a 1000cc buggy to drive them yourself.

WHAT TO EXPECT

You drive

These are automatic buggies: no gears, no clutch, just throttle and steering. A lead guide rides ahead in a separate vehicle picking the safe lines through the dunes, so beginners can commit to the drive without worrying about getting stuck or picking a bad crest.

The red dunes

Al Badayer's sand is iron-rich, which is what gives it the deep rust colour that photographs so well — particularly in the last hour of light. The terrain is more dramatic than the softer dunes closer to Dubai, with longer runs and bigger faces.

Kitted out

Helmet, goggles and gloves are provided, along with a full safety briefing before you set off. Photography stops on the dune tops are built into the route.

GOOD TO KNOW

Wear closed shoes and clothes you do not mind getting dusty — desert sand gets everywhere. Late-afternoon slots catch the best light and cooler temperatures.

Prefer to ride rather than drive four wheels? Quad biking in Ras Al Khaimah puts you on a single-rider machine. For buggy driving closer to the city, Dune Buggy Dubai runs in the Dubai desert itself. To combine dunes with dinner and entertainment, see the evening desert safari or browse all Dubai desert experiences.