Nobody can dream of Arabia with out dreaming of deserts. No visit to Dubai would be complete without a trip into the desert. Such excursions, which are best organized as part of a group tour, offer a taste of the true heartland of Arabia.

The magnificence and harmony of the desert can be experienced in a choice of exciting half-day, full-day and overnight safaris. These action-packed trips cover varied topography ranging from desert to mountain and take in remote camel and goat farms and isolated villages. The Highlights of a safari in Dubai are the following:

Dune driving
Driving in sand is an exciting activity. An adventure in itself, combining the excitement of a rollercoaster ride with the challenge of remaining mobile on the shifting surface. Courses in sand driving are available, with four-wheel-drive vehicles provided along with expert instruction.

Camel riding
The camel, a symbol of Arabia, is also a major tourist attraction. Camel rides are part of some tours and desert safaris. Tour operators and hotels also arrange camel rides separately.

Sand Skiing		Camel riding		Belly Dance

Exploring the wadis
A popular amusement with both residents and visitors is known as wadi bashing - exploring the wadis or dry beds of streams that flow after the winter rains from the Hajar Mountains. Many wadis offer scenes of unexpected beauty: attractive rock pools, some with water year-round, surrounded by greenery. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are required and are available for hire with or without drivers.

Sand skiing
It is an unusual sport entertaining enthusiastic and speed loving people. Special skis are used and high dunes in the interior of the Dubai desert are chosen as slopes. Sand skiing can be arranged on request or as part of a full-day or half-day safari.

Desert feast
Desert feasts give a truly strange experience. Safaris that finish in the evening with spectacular sunset views followed by a traditional Arabian barbecue under the stars are more popular these days. These can be modified to meet every taste from a romantic and peaceful experience to elaborate fun-packed evenings complete with music, belly dancing, the smoking of hubble-bubble pipes and often a display of falconry.