Outdoor Adventures in Dubai: From the Desert to the Mountains

Discover the adrenaline of dunes, the tranquility of mountains, and unexpected oases in the very heart of Arabia. We’ll show you how to experience the other, natural side of the most futuristic emirate.

Imagine: the roar of the engine fades away, and the only sound you hear is the whistling wind shifting the red sand dunes. The city with its skyscrapers has faded into the distance, becoming a mirage on the horizon. This, too, is Dubai. And this guide is your ticket to its wild, uncharted heart, where adrenaline meets silence, and the horizon is unbounded by glass and concrete. Dubai is actively developing its natural side, offering travelers a unique opportunity to swap urban hustle and bustle for thrilling outdoor adventures.

The realm of sand: All kinds of safaris and activities in the Dubai desert

The desert is the soul of the emirate, its historical cradle, and today—its primary arena for outdoor activities. Everything here is organized to the highest standard, allowing you to immerse yourself completely in a world of speed, sand, and starry skies.

Jeep safaris: from adrenaline-pumping "Dune Bashing" to dinner under the stars

Dubai’s hallmark and most popular adventure is a jeep safari through its famed red sands. But forget the word “trip”—this is a true desert baptism. Buckle up tight: for the next 20–30 minutes, your Land Cruiser will soar over dune crests, pause for a split second at an unimaginable angle, and then roar down the other side, kicking up clouds of red sand. It’s controlled chaos that takes your breath away—perhaps the fastest way to truly feel the desert’s power and character. Afterward, you’ll be taken to a stylized Bedouin camp, where the main, 2–3-hour portion of the program unfolds. You can look forward to a barbecue dinner and a vibrant entertainment show featuring the Tanoura dance, belly dancing, and a fire performance.

Who this is for: Perfect for first-time visitors to Dubai, families, and groups of friends. It’s a versatile experience that combines adventure, culture, and gastronomy. However, keep in mind that due to its popularity, crowded camps may involve queues and a somewhat assembly-line feel.

Full throttle: ATVs and sandboarding

If in a jeep you’re just a passenger, then an ATV is a whole different story. Here, it’s just you, the roaring engine beneath you, and complete freedom to chart your own course across the dunes. No guides behind the wheel—just the wind, speed, and the adrenaline rush of taming the sandy elements yourself. The standard duration of the ride is 30 minutes, and it’s most often offered as an optional add-on to the main jeep safari. Another way to conquer the dunes is sandboarding. Imagine a snowboard, but instead of snowy slopes, you’ve got warm, yielding sand dunes. It’s fun, incredibly photogenic, and usually already included in the camp visit itinerary.

The rhythm of old Arabia: leisurely camel rides and falconry

To truly feel the rhythm of old Arabia, swap the roar of the engine for the unhurried gait of the "ship of the desert." A short, 10- to 20-minute camel ride is an essential part of the experience, allowing you to step into the shoes of an ancient caravan traveler for a few precious moments. The steady rocking motion, the creaking of the saddle, and the panoramic view of the desert from above offer a completely different, meditative experience after the roar of engines. For a deeper cultural immersion, there’s falconry—an ancient art and an integral part of the region’s heritage. This is a more niche, premium activity geared toward culture enthusiasts. Falcon flight demonstrations are typically included in more expensive, intimate, or morning tours.

Beyond the dunes: Mountains, reserves, and hidden gems

Dubai's nature isn't limited solely to its sands. As soon as you drive away from the city in a different direction, a completely different world awaits you—a world of cliffs, fresh water, and astonishing biodiversity.

Mountain oasis: hiking and kayaking in Hatta

Just an hour and a half from Dubai, and it’s as if you’ve been teleported to another planet. The red sands of the desert give way to the dramatic landscape of the Hajar mountain range: rugged, wind-sculpted cliffs embrace an unnaturally turquoise lake. Here, the air is cooler, and the pace of life slows down. Hatta is a challenge for those accustomed to walking on their own two feet. You can lace up your hiking boots and set out to conquer one of dozens of marked trails, rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that take your breath away. Or you can trade solid ground for the smooth surface of the water: grab a kayak and glide into serene, picturesque coves where the only sound is the gentle splash of the paddle against the water.

Excursions to neighboring Emirates: Ras Al Khaimah for height enthusiasts

For true thrill-seekers, it’s worth planning a day trip to the neighboring emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, easily accessible via organized tours from Dubai. It’s here, on the slopes of Jebel Jais mountain, that you’ll find the world’s longest zipline—a heart-pounding flight soaring above deep gorges at dizzying speeds.

Urban jungles: a flamingo sanctuary and a ropes course

You don’t have to travel far from the city to encounter wildlife.

• Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: A surreal scene where thousands of pink flamingos thrive in their natural habitat, right against the backdrop of Downtown’s skyscrapers. Admission is free, and convenient viewing platforms have been specially designed for visitors, including those with mobility challenges.

• Ropes сourse at Dubai Safari Park: An excellent option for family outings. This is a prime example of successfully integrating outdoor adventure into the infrastructure of a large park: courses of varying difficulty levels run directly above enclosures that mimic the African savanna.

Romance and пrace: рorseback кiding

For those who appreciate elegant leisure and romance, horseback riding is the perfect choice. This niche, premium experience allows you to feel truly connected with nature. Imagine riding an Arabian steed as you greet the sunrise in the desert or bid farewell to the sunset in the Hatta mountains—moments so special you’ll never want to share them on social media, but rather keep them treasured forever just for yourself.

Planning hour adventure: Practical tips

Inspired and ready for adventure? Here are a few tips to help make your trip absolutely perfect.

• Booking: where and how?
  The easiest way to book tours is online through international platforms (such as GetYourGuide or Klook), which offer a user-friendly interface, customer reviews, and flexible cancellation policies. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season and on weekends.
• Language and communication
  The primary language used in the tourism sector is English. However, on Russian-language platforms (such as Sputnik8 or Tripster), you can find a wide range of tours with Russian-speaking guides.

How to choose an adventure that suits you: A quick guide

Still can’t decide? Let’s find the key that unlocks exactly your heart.

If your soul craves speed and excitement, your path leads straight to a jeep safari, complete with an optional quad bike ride, and for the bravest among you—a zipline flight over the Jebel Jais canyons.

Traveling with family? A foolproof choice is a classic evening safari, where everyone will find something to enjoy, plus a visit to the pink flamingos and fun at the ropes course.

Craving peace, solitude, and authentic nature? Then boldly set course for Hatta, with its mountain trails and serene lake.

And if you’re looking for the perfect backdrop for romance, a horseback ride at sunset or a leisurely camel caravan will give you exactly the kind of images and emotions you’ve been dreaming of.

Dubai that will surprise you

So next time you’re planning a trip to Dubai, ask yourself: which emirate do you really want to see? The one from the promotional brochures, or the one that lives by the laws of sun and sand? Dare to stray off the well-trodden tourist paths, and you’ll discover a Dubai that’s never featured in glossy magazines—wild, free, and breathtakingly authentic. And this encounter will change your perception of it forever.