The UAE's desert landscapes are truly stunning and offer a range of activities for those looking to explore them. Here are some suggestions:
Take a desert safari: One of the most popular ways to explore the desert is by taking a desert safari. This typically involves a 4x4 ride through the dunes, followed by a traditional Bedouin-style camp where you can enjoy a BBQ dinner, shisha, and traditional dance performances.
Try sandboarding: Sandboarding is a popular activity in the UAE's deserts. You can rent a sandboard and ride down the dunes for an adrenaline-filled experience.
Ride a camel: Camels are a traditional mode of transportation in the desert and riding one is a unique experience. There are several camel farms and safaris that offer camel rides.
Hot air balloon ride: A hot air balloon ride offers a unique perspective of the desert landscape. You can enjoy stunning views of the dunes and the surrounding mountains as you float above them.
Visit a desert oasis: The UAE is home to several desert oases, which are areas where water is present in an otherwise arid landscape. Al Ain Oasis is one of the largest and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a guided tour to learn about the traditional irrigation systems used to cultivate crops in the desert.
Stargazing: The desert is a great place for stargazing due to the lack of light pollution. You can take a guided tour with an astronomer to learn about the constellations and view the stars through a telescope.
Go on a desert hike: There are several hiking trails in the UAE's deserts, which offer a chance to explore the landscape on foot. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as temperatures can get very high.