Morning Desert Safari In Abu Dhabi

Availability: Daily
Free Pick up & Drop
Printed Voucher Accepted
Duration: 4 Hrs
Instant Confirmation
English Speaking Guide
Starting Time: 7:00 - 7:30 AM
11:30 - 12:00 PM
Free Cancellation 12 hours Prior

Overview

There’s no better way to begin your day in the UAE than with a Morning Desert Safari Abu Dhabi — a cool sunrise breeze, golden dunes stretching endlessly, and a thrilling off-road adventure far from the city noise. This early-morning safari is designed for travellers who want to explore the desert before the heat sets in while enjoying some of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic outdoor experiences.

Whether you’re a family , a couple , a group of friends , a solo traveller , or even a cruise passenger with only a few hours in the city , this safari delivers adrenaline, culture, and breathtaking scenery in one seamless 4-hour experience.

Ready to swap city streets for golden dunes?


A serene sunrise over the golden sand dunes of Abu Dhabi, capturing the tranquility and beauty of the desert at dawn.

Why a Morning Desert Safari Is the Best Way to Experience the Abu Dhabi Desert

A morning safari lets you experience the Abu Dhabi desert at its most peaceful and photogenic. The early sunlight creates soft golden hues, ideal for photos, and cooler temperatures that make activities more comfortable. Compared to midday heat or evening crowds, the morning desert safari focuses on pure activities — dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and exploring the desert landscape in its raw beauty.

It’s also the most time-efficient option:
You’re picked up around 7:00 AM and usually back before noon, giving you the rest of the day for city attractions, tours, malls, or relaxing at your hotel.

This is why travellers consistently rank it among the best morning desert safari Abu Dhabi experiences — thrilling, affordable, and perfectly scheduled.


Quick Facts: Morning Desert Safari Abu Dhabi at a Glance

3 tourist riding 3 camels with a guide in Abu Dhabi desert
Quick Facts Details
Duration ~4 hours (door-to-door)
Pickup Any Abu Dhabi hotel, malls, residence & cruise port
Timing 7:00–7:30 AM pickup • Return around 11:30–12:00 PM
Activities Dune bashing • Camel ride • Sandboarding • Photo stops
Best Months October to March
Price From AED 149 per person
Ideal For Families, couples, friends, solo travellers
Desert Area Abu Dhabi Golden Dunes (Al Khatim region)

*All timings and prices are subject to availability and season.


Morning Desert Safari Packages & Prices

Standard Shared Morning Desert Safari

Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want the full adventure at the best price.

Includes:

  • Shared 4x4 transfer
  • 30–40 mins dune bashing
  • Camel farm visit
  • Camel ride session
  • Sandboarding
  • Water, soft drinks, Arabic coffee & dates
  • Top dune photography
  • Arabic costume photos

Total duration: 4 hours (approx.)

Private Morning Desert Safari

Ideal for families, honeymooners, or anyone wanting total comfort and flexibility.

Benefits:

  • Your own private 4x4
  • Choose a pickup time
  • Option to skip dune bashing
  • More photography time
  • Ideal for children, elders, or guests with motion sensitivity

Premium Morning Safari With Add-On Activities

Add thrill to your tour with quad bikes or dune buggy rides operated in a controlled area.

Add-On Options:

  • Quad Bike (Single): AED 150–200
  • Quad Bike (Double):AED 250–300
  • Dune Buggy 2-Seater:AED 450–600
  • Professional Photography: AED 100–150
  • Breakfast Add-On (upon request):AED 35–50

Price Table — Main Packages

Package Inclusions Pickup Duration Price
Shared Morning Safari Dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, drinks Shared 4x4 4 hours AED 149
Private Morning Safari All activities + flexible schedule Private 4x4 4 hours From AED 700
Premium Safari + Add-Ons Safari + quad/buggy Shared or Private 4 hours AED 149 + Add-on

Optional Add-Ons Table

Add-On Price (AED) Notes
Quad Bike (Single) 150–200 Controlled area, safety gear included
Quad Bike (Double) 250–300 Must be 12+
2-Seater Dune Buggy 450–600 Roll cage + helmets included
Breakfast Box 35–50 Optional, on request
Photographer 100–150 Per group

Step-by-Step Morning Desert Safari Itinerary

1. 7:00–7:30 AM — Pickup from Your Abu Dhabi Location

Your professional safari guide arrives in a Toyota Land Cruiser or similar 4x4. After a quick introduction, you begin your journey toward the desert.

2. 8:00 AM — Arrival at the Desert + Safety Briefing

A safari guide explaining safety instructions to a group of travelers in the Abu Dhabi desert before dune bashing begins.

Before the action begins, your guide gives instructions:

  • Seat belts during dune bashing
  • Who may skip the off-road section
  • Photography tips for sunrise

This ensures everyone enjoys themselves safely.

3. 8:10–8:40 AM — 4x4 Dune Bashing Adventure

A thrilling 4x4 dune bashing ride across steep golden dunes in the Abu Dhabi desert, with passengers enjoying the adventure.

Time for the highlight!
Your experienced driver navigates steep ridges, soft sandy slopes, and thrilling drops in a heart-racing yet controlled dune bashing ride.
Intensity can be adjusted for your comfort — from mild to adventurous.

4. 8:40–9:00 AM — Sandboarding on the Dunes

A traveler enjoying sandboarding down the golden dunes of Abu Dhabi, capturing the action and excitement of this thrilling desert activity.

Grab a board and glide down soft golden dunes. It’s safe, beginner-friendly, and great for photos.

5. 9:00–9:30 AM — Camel Farm Visit + Camel Ride

A traveler interacting with a camel at a traditional camel farm in Abu Dhabi, with a beautiful desert backdrop.

Meet the desert’s iconic animals at a traditional camel farm, learn fun facts, and enjoy a short camel ride perfect for photos.

6. 9:30–9:45 AM — Desert Camp Refreshments & Photography

Guests enjoying Arabic coffee and dates at a desert camp in Abu Dhabi, dressed in traditional Arabic costumes for a photo session.

At the camp area, you’ll enjoy:

  • Arabic coffee & dates
  • Water, hot & cold beverages
  • Photo session in traditional Arabic costumes
  • Dune-top photography with your guide

7. 10:00–10:30 AM — Return to Abu Dhabi City

Relax during the smooth drive back. You’re usually at your hotel by 11:30–12:00 PM, giving you the entire day free.


What’s Included & What’s Not

Inclusions vs Exclusions Table

Item Included? Notes
Hotel pickup & drop-off Anywhere in Abu Dhabi
4x4 dune bashing 30–40 mins
Camel farm visit Traditional farm
Camel ride Short ride
Sandboarding All equipment provided
Photo stop on the dunes Sunrise shots
Arabic coffee, dates Included
Water & soft drinks Unlimited
Arabic costume photos At camp
Breakfast Available on request
Quad bike Paid add-on
Dune buggy Paid add-on
Gratuities Optional
Personal expenses Not included

Inclusions

  • Roundtrip 4x4 transportation
  • Camel farm visit
  • Camel ride session
  • Dune bashing in a 4×4
  • Sandboarding
  • Dates with Arabic coffee
  • Water, hot & cold beverages
  • Top dune photography
  • Arabic costume photoshoot

Exclusions

  • Breakfast (Optional: arranged on request)
  • Quad bike ride (Available for rent)
  • Dune buggy ride (Available for rent)
  • Tips & personal expenses

Activities You’ll Experience on the Morning Desert Safari

3 travellers riding exciting quad bikes in the controlled area of the Abu Dhabi desert, with a dune buggy in the background.

A Morning Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi is much more than a simple drive into the sand. It’s a full morning of activities that combine adventure, culture, and scenery in a compact, well-organised tour.

4x4 Dune Bashing in the Abu Dhabi Desert

Your safari starts with the signature experience: Dune Bashing in a 4x4 Land Cruiser.
Your licensed driver deflates the tyres for better grip and then takes you across:

  • High and low dunes
  • Soft sand bowls
  • Sloping ridges and drops

It’s a thrilling dune bashing ride that feels like a roller coaster on sand – but always with safety as the top priority. Speed and intensity can be adjusted, so families with young children or guests who prefer a milder ride can still enjoy the experience.

Camel Farm Visit & Camel Ride

No desert safari in Abu Dhabi is complete without meeting the desert’s most iconic residents.
At the camel farm, you will:

  • See camels up close
  • Learn how they’re raised and used in the region
  • Understand why they’re called the “ships of the desert”

Then you’ll enjoy a short camel ride – ideal for photos and for experiencing how people historically travelled across the Arabian desert. This is one of the highlights for both kids and adults.

Sandboarding Down the Dunes

After dune bashing, you’ll have the chance to try sandboarding – surfing down soft golden dunes on a board.

  • Beginner friendly
  • Great for teens and adults
  • Falls are soft (it’s just sand!)

Your guide will show you how to:

  • Strap in or stand correctly
  • Keep your balance
  • Glide down safely

It’s a must-try activity on any morning desert safari Abu Dhabi.

Optional Quad Biking & Dune Buggy Rides

If you’d like to add more adrenaline, you can book quad biking or dune buggy rides as optional upgrades (extra cost).

  • Quad bikesfor single or double riders
  • 2-seater dune buggies with roll cages, helmets, and safety briefing
  • Operated in a designated, controlled area

These are perfect for adventure lovers who want to drive themselves across the sand after dune bashing with the driver.

Note: Quad bikes and dune buggies are not included in the AED 149 base package. They can be added in advance during booking or on-site (subject to availability).


Shared vs Private Morning Desert Safari: Which Is Right for You?

Travelers in a shared 4x4 vehicle for a desert safari in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the different safari experiences available.

Both shared and private morning desert safari options let you experience the same desert activities. The difference lies in comfort, flexibility, and pricing.

Shared vs Private Safari Comparison

Feature Shared Morning Safari Private Morning Safari
Vehicle Shared 4x4 with other guests Exclusive 4x4 for your group
Price Best value – AED 149 per person From AED 499 per vehicle
Schedule Fixed pickup window More flexibility in timing
Group Size Up to 6–7 guests per car Only your family/friends
Dune Bashing Intensity Standard (moderate thrill) Can be custom: gentle or intense
Ideal For Solo travellers, couples, small groups on a budget Families with kids, honeymooners, VIPs, guests with health concerns
Privacy Shared experience Full privacy for photos & videos
Pick-Up Points Hotels, malls, residences, and a port Same, but fully dedicated to you

Which Option Should You Choose?

Choose Shared Morning Safari if you:

  • Want the lowest price.
  • Don’t mind joining other friendly travellers.
  • Are you a couple, a solo traveller, or a small group

Choose Private Morning Safari if you:

  • Are travelling with young children or seniors
  • Prefer more controlover speed, stops, and dune bashing intensity.
  • Want a romantic or VIP experience without strangers in the car

If you’re unsure, start with the shared option – you still get the full morning desert safari experience with dune bashing, camel ride, and sandboarding.


Safety, Age & Health Guidelines

Your safety is our top priority. A desert safari in Abu Dhabi is an exciting off-road adventure, but it’s operated under strict safety standards.

Who Can Join the Morning Desert Safari?

  • Adults & Teens: Most healthy adults can join all activities.
  • Children:Kids can usually join dune bashing if they can sit with a seatbelt fastened; younger children may ride in the car but skip sandboarding or quad biking.
  • Seniors:Many older guests enjoy the safari, especially on private tours with gentler driving.

Who Should Avoid Dune Bashing?

For safety reasons, dune bashing is not recommended for:

  • Pregnant women
  • Guests with serious back, neck, or heart conditions
  • Those who’ve had recent major surgeries
  • Infants and toddlers

You can still join the tour in a private car and skip dune bashing, heading straight to the camp and camel area while others ride.

Vehicle & Driver Safety

  • All desert safaris are conducted in 4x4 vehicles with seatbelts for every passenger.
  • Drivers are licensed and experienced desert professionals who know the dunes and safety protocols.
  • Vehicles are regularly inspected, insured, and equipped for off-road use.

Weather & Hydration

Morning safaris help you avoid midday heat, but it can still be warm, especially from April to September.

  • Drink water often (provided on tour).
  • Wear light, breathable clothing and a hat.
  • Use sunscreen, even in winter.

If you ever feel unwell during dune bashing, let your driver know immediately – they can reduce speed, stop, or take you to a smoother route.


What to Wear, Pack & Bring for Your Morning Desert Safari

Good preparation can make your Abu Dhabi morning safari even more comfortable. Here’s what we recommend.

What to Wear on a Morning Desert Safari

Clothing:

  • Light, breathable cotton or linen
  • T-shirt or long-sleeved top
  • Comfortable trousers, leggings, or shorts

Footwear:

  • Closed sports shoes or trainers are best for dune bashing & sandboarding
  • Avoid high heels or very loose sandals

Seasonal Tips:

  • Winter (Sep–Mar): Bring a light jacket or hoodie for the cool early morning breeze.
  • Summer: Choose lighter fabrics and drink plenty of water.

Packing Checklist (Print-Friendly)

Essential Items:

  • Passport copy or Emirates ID
  • Phone & charger/power bank
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat or cap
  • High-SPF sunscreen
  • Small backpack or sling bag
  • Reusable water bottle (optional – water is also provided)
  • Any personal medication
  • Light jacket (winter months)
  • Tissues or wet wipes

If travelling with kids:

  • Extra snacks
  • Baby formula or milk
  • Diapers and changing wipes
  • Light blanket or shawl

If planning quad biking:

  • Closed shoes
  • Long trousers
  • Hair tie for long hair

Photography Shot List – Don’t Miss These Moments

A group of travelers on a dune in the Abu Dhabi desert, posing for a photograph against a stunning backdrop of sand dunes and blue sky.

To make your morning desert tour Abu Dhabi Instagram- and memory-ready, here are some must-capture shots:

  • Sunrise over the golden sand dunes of Abu Dhabi.
  • Your 4x4 is climbing or descending a high dune.
  • Silhouettes of camels against the morning sky.
  • Group “jump shot” on the dune ridge.
  • Close-up of camel face or saddle details.
  • Sandboarding action shot mid-ride.
  • Footprints leading across untouched sand.
  • Wide panoramic view of the Arabian desert landscape
  • You're holding a cup of Arabic coffee with dunes behind.
  • Traditional Arabic costume portrait at the desert camp.

Tip : Golden light is strongest early in the tour – ask your guide to pause briefly on a high dune for that perfect photo.


Who Is the Morning Desert Safari Perfect For?

A morning desert safari in Abu Dhabi is designed to work for almost every type of traveller.

Families with Kids

  • Back at the hotel before lunch and nap time
  • Fun, active, and safe when instructions are followed
  • Camel ride and sandboarding are usually kids’ favourite parts

Couples & Honeymooners

  • Romantic desert scenery with soft sunrise light
  • Private car upgrade available for more intimacy
  • Amazing couple photography opportunities on the dunes

Friends & Adventure Seekers

  • Thrilling dune bashing, sandboarding, and optional quad biking
  • Great group selfies and videos
  • Ideal start to a packed day in Abu Dhabi

Solo Travellers & Business Visitors

  • Easy to join via shared morning safari.
  • Quick 4-hour experience fits perfectly into a tight schedule.
  • Great way to see the desert, even on a short work trip or layover.

If you have specific needs (e.g., large student or corporate groups, cruise excursion timing), contact the team to arrange a tailor-made morning desert safari package.


Morning vs Evening Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi

Not sure whether to book a morning desert safari, evening desert safari, or even an overnight desert safari? Here’s a breakdown.

Comparison: Morning, Evening & Overnight Desert Safaris

Feature Morning Desert Safari Evening Desert Safari Overnight Desert Safari
Timing ~7:00 AM – 11:30/12:00 PM ~3:00 PM – 9:00 PM ~3:00 PM – next day 9:00 AM
Temperature Cooler than mid-day Warm but pleasant after sunset Cool night, chilly early morning
Main Focus Activities & adventure Activities + BBQ dinner & shows Full desert experience with camping
Activities Dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding Same + dinner, live entertainment Same as evening + camping, sunrise
Meals No breakfast (optional extra) BBQ dinner & soft drinks BBQ dinner + breakfast
Best For Families, time-poor visitors, early risers Culture, food, and sunset lovers Desert enthusiasts, photographers
Pros Beat the heat, free afternoon Sunset views, live shows, dinner Sleep under stars, quiet morning
Cons No dinner or shows Back late at night Longer, higher price

If you mainly want adventure and cool temperatures with time left for other things to do in Abu Dhabi, the Morning Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi is your best choice.


Why Choose Desert Safari Abu Dhabi for Your Morning Tour

There are many desert safari operators in Abu Dhabi, but choosing the right one makes a big difference to your experience and safety. Here’s why guests trust Desert Safari Abu Dhabi (placeholder brand) for their morning desert safari Abu Dhabi.

01. Licensed & Experienced Desert Safari Operator

We operate with all necessary permits, trained drivers, and years of experience in Abu Dhabi desert tourism. Our team knows the dunes, weather patterns, and safest routes – so you can focus on enjoying the ride.

02. Highest Safety Standards & Insured 4x4 Fleet

  • Regular vehicle maintenance
  • Insured 4x4 Land Cruisers or equivalent
  • Seat belts for every passenger
  • Safety briefings before dune bashing and quad biking

Your well-being is non-negotiable.

03. Transparent Pricing — No Hidden Costs

The AED 149 morning safari price includes:

  • Hotel pickup & drop-off
  • Dune bashing
  • Camel farm visit & camel ride
  • Sandboarding
  • Drinks and basic refreshments

Optional extras like quad bikes or breakfast are clearly listed and never forced.

04. Flexible Booking & Fair Cancellation Policy

Plans change — especially when travelling. That’s why we offer:

  • Easy online booking
  • Instant confirmation
  • Free cancellation up to a certain cut-off time (see policy section)

You can book your morning desert safari in Abu Dhabi with confidence.

05. Friendly, Multilingual Guides & 24/7 Support

From pickup to drop-off, our team aims to make you feel welcome, safe, and informed.

  • Guides speak English and other major languages (subject to availability).
  • Support is available to answer questions about desert safari packages, timings, and add-ons before or after booking.

Over thousands of guests have trusted us for their Abu Dhabi desert safari experiences – many returning or recommending us to friends and family.


How Booking, Payment & Cancellation Work

Booking your morning desert safari Abu Dhabi should be as easy as enjoying it. Here’s how the process works from start to finish.

Step-by-Step: How to Book Your Morning Desert Safari

01. Choose Your Date & Package

  • Select the Shared Morning Safari (AED 149) or upgrade to a Private Morning Safari.

02. Add Optional Extras

  • Quad bikes, dune buggy, breakfast, photographer, etc.

03. Enter Guest & Pickup Details

  • Hotel name, room number (if available), residence, or cruise terminal.

04. Confirm & Pay Securely Online

  • Pay with major credit/debit cards or other available methods.

05. Receive Instant Confirmation

  • Get your booking voucher by email and/or WhatsApp with full tour details.

On the day, simply be ready at the pickup point 5–10 minutes before your confirmed time.

Payment Methods & Secure Checkout

  • Major credit and debit cards
  • Possible cash-on-pickup option for some bookings (if your ops supports this – can be adjusted)
  • Encrypted payment gateway for safe transactions

Your booking is confirmed only once payment is processed or the agreed deposit is received.

Cancellation & Modification Policy

  • Free cancellation up to 12–24 hours before the tour (exact cut-off to be confirmed).
  • Cancellations made after the cut-off or no-shows may be fully or partially non-refundable.
  • Date changes are possible, subject to availability and may be free if requested ahead of time.

Urgency Microcopy

  • “Morning slots are limited, especially on weekends and holidays.”
  • “Book at least 24 hours in advanceto secure your preferred date and pickup time.”
  • “Last-minute seats may sell out quickly during peak season.”

Insider Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

A Morning Desert Safari Abu Dhabi is simple, but a few small tips can make your experience smoother, safer, and far more enjoyable.

Insider Tips (From Our Guides to You)

  • Eat light before dune bashing.
    Heavy meals early morning + off-road rides can cause discomfort.
  • Wear closed shoes.
    Sandboarding and climbing dunes are easier with sneakers.
  • Carry sunglasses with good UV protection.
    Morning light in the desert is bright and reflective.
  • Tell your driver if you want mild dune bashing.
    All dune bashing can be customized — families and seniors often prefer gentler rides.
  • Charge your phone fully.
    The desert is extremely photogenic; videos drain battery life fast.
  • Bring a jacket between October–March.
    Early mornings can be chilly.
  • Plan a city tour after your safari.
    You’ll be done before noon — perfect timing for Louvre Abu Dhabi, Grand Mosque , or a sightseeing tour .

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Booking too late.
    Morning slots often fill up because they’re cooler and ideal for families.
  • Wearing open sandals.
    Sand gets inside easily and can be hot mid-morning.
  • Skipping sunscreen.
    Even early sunlight in the UAE is strong.
  • Expecting breakfast.
    Breakfast is not included unless pre-arranged.
  • Not informing the driver of motion issues.
    A gentler ride makes the safari equally enjoyable.
  • Bringing very young infants for dune bashing.
    Infants must skip the off-road section for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s a 4-hour early-morning adventure in the Abu Dhabi desert featuring dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, and scenic photo stops. Pickup is included, and the safari begins before the heat of the day.
The safari typically runs from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM , depending on your hotel location. Total duration is around 4 hours , including transfers.
The AED 149 package includes hotel pickup, dune bashing, camel farm visit, camel ride, sandboarding, water, soft drinks, Arabic coffee, dates, and costume photography.
Yes, kids who can sit with a seatbelt can join dune bashing. Younger children may require a private car and may skip the off-road section.
No, breakfast is not included by default. It can be arranged on request as a paid add-on.
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from any Abu Dhabi hotel, mall, residence, or cruise terminal.
Yes, every guest gets a short camel ride during the visit to the camel farm.
Yes, private tours are available starting from AED 499 per vehicle with flexible timing and the ability to skip dune bashing if desired.
No. Quad bikes and dune buggies are optional add-ons available for an extra fee.
Pregnant women should avoid dune bashing due to safety concerns, but can join a private tour and skip the off-road driving.
Wear light clothing, closed shoes, sunglasses, and bring sunscreen. In winter, carry a light jacket for cool mornings.
Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended — morning tours often sell out, especially from October to March.
Pickup is generally between 7:00–7:30 AM, and you return between 11:30–12:00 PM.
Yes. On a private morning safari, you can skip dune bashing and go directly to the camel and camp areas.
Yes. The shared AED 149 tour is family-friendly, and private cars offer even more comfort for young kids and seniors.
Yes, discounted rates and customised itineraries can be arranged for corporate outings, school trips, and large families.
If weather conditions affect safety, the tour may be rescheduled or refunded according to policy.
Absolutely — for AED 149, you get dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, drinks, and hotel pickup, making it one of Abu Dhabi’s best-value experiences.
  • Morning = activities & cooler temperatures.
  • Evening = sunset, BBQ dinner, and live shows.
  • Morning is shorter; evening is more cultural.
Simply select the add-ons during online booking or request them from your guide (subject to availability).

Summary & Book Your Morning Desert Safari Abu Dhabi

A Morning Desert Safari Abu Dhabi is the perfect way to start your day — thrilling dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and unforgettable sunrise views. With pickup included and tours starting at just AED 149, it’s one of the UAE’s best-value activities.

Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or as a couple, this safari gives you adventure, culture, and scenery before most visitors have even finished breakfast.


Morning Desert Safari In Abu Dhabi