The UAE’s sweeping desert dunes are the ideal setting for alfresco adventure and unconventional outdoor activities. From dune-buggy adrenaline-fueled adventure to peaceful stargazing expedition amidst the Milky Way stars, the cooler season transforms golden sands into a playground of adventure. From luxurious glamping retreats, heritage visits, to high-octane off-road escapades, these best desert activities in UAE are not-to-be-missed experiences in unraveling the emirates’ resplendent natural beauty.
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Dune Buggy Tours, Sharjah
Private guided self-drive dune buggy tours of Mleiha’s stunning scenery are offered by Zerzura Experiences as one of the UAE’s premier desert experiences. Led by qualified guides, tours offer a mix of natural and archaeological interest. Overnight eco-friendly tent glamping enhances the experience.
- Location: Mleiha, Sharjah
Hot Air Ballooning, Ras Al Khaimah
Action Flight provides thrill-packed air activities, including regular hot air balloon flights over the cooler months. Available as group flights, romantic break or DJ set flights for two, all accompanied by pre-sunrise early morning transfers. Witness gazelles, camels, and desert foxes on your one-hour balloon ride over sand dunes, including transfers and snacks.
- Location: Ras Al Khaimah
Stargazing, Abu Dhabi
Arabian Wanderers provides stargazing weekend getaways to Al Quaa, the darkest place in the UAE for the most stunning view of the Milky Way. This top desert activities in UAE provides off-road tours, full camp setup, stargazing with BBQ, bonfire, games, and professionally guided stargazing with professional Celestron telescopes.
- Location: Al Quaa, Abu Dhabi
Moon Retreat Glamping, Sharjah
Sharjah Collection’s crown jewel glamping experience boasts 10 domes and six private tents set in the heart of Mleiha. Sun loungers on exclusive decks, plunge pools, and private BBQ areas are joined by each dome on an extending boardwalk. There are beds, AC, and ensuite showers for extra luxury.
- Location: Mleiha, Sharjah
Platinum Heritage Desert Safari, Dubai
One of Dubai’s biggest names offers a night out in luxury with nature drives, sunset canapés, falconry show-offs, gourmet six-course dinners under the stars in private cabanas, and fire and acrobatic shows to top this UAE 2025 top desert things to do.
- Location: Dubai
- Cost: From Dhs1,950
Off-Roading at XQuarry, Sharjah and Al Ain
XQuarry’s adventure parks include almost 12km of 4×4 tracks, 30 specialist-designed obstacles, obstacle running trails, and walking trails. Take your own vehicle, hire at site, or take guided excursions with experts on challenging ground.
- Location: Mleiha and Al Ain
Jebel Hafit Desert Park, Abu Dhabi
Operated by Pura Eco Retreats, this Abu Dhabi’s highest point glamping resort is eco-friendly and equipped with lodges, dome tents, safari tents, and heritage tents. Get to enjoy access to archaeological sites, guided hiking tour, camel ride, and e-skateboarding activities.
- Location: Jebel Hafit base, Abu Dhabi
Sonara Camp, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah
This is a high-end desert safari trip with boho-chic lounge spaces, sandboarding, live music performances, camel riding, and gourmet set meals with fire performances, traditional dance shows, and falcon displays.
- Location: Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai
Al Madam Ghost Village, Sharjah
Go to this spooky abandoned village slowly being buried by desert sands. Located on the border of Sharjah and Oman, crumpled walls and vacant homes have a haunting ambiance. Open spaces welcome all to visit this cultural landmark.
- Location: Sharjah-Oman border
Desert Picnic, Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert
Dine in seclusion under dunes with sunset drives in an old Land Rover 1952 to the 1,235-acre nature reserve. Seasonal goodies in spanking new picnic baskets filled fresh are perfect romantic moments.
- Location: Ras Al Khaimah
- Booking: Book 48 hours prior
UAE deserts are transformed into a heaven of adventure during winter months with exciting activities from luxurious glamping to cultural tours amidst golden sands. These best desert activities in UAE 2025 offer unforgettable experiences for every type of adventurer.
