Al Awir and Lahbab · Guide carries the board
Sandboarding Dubai Free on Every Safari, Private as Long as You Like
Stand, sit or lie down on the board, with a guide carrying it back uphill. Sandboarding is included on every safari from USD 10 (AED 35). A private 4×4 session costs USD 190 (AED 699).
USD 190 (AED 699) per car for 7 · free on every safari
Tomorrow near Al Awir: sunset 5:37 PM. Board in the cooler hour before.
Book sandboardingDate and number of guests, that is all
From our team
Sandboarding in Dubai, Done Properly
Ask people who’ve tried sandboarding in Dubai and you’ll usually hear one of two stories. One group calls it the best bit of their holiday, full stop. The other group got one quick slide next to the camp, then a long, sweaty climb back. Funny thing is, both are telling the truth, and it really comes down to who organises it.
Here’s the bit most operators skip over. Sand is slower than snow, so a decent slope matters far more than a fancy board. That’s why we stop on proper dunes, not the flat patch beside the dinner tables. Every safari gives you up to 30 minutes on the board, and our guide hauls it back up. Want more? Book a private session and stay out there as long as you like.
We are a Dubai company, licensed by DTCM and operating on these particular dunes since 2015. Sandboarding costs nothing additional on any of our safaris, which begin at USD 10 (AED 35) per guest.
The short answer
Is There Sandboarding in Dubai?
Sandboarding in Dubai is riding a board down a desert dune, standing, sitting or lying on your tummy. Most people try it on a desert safari, and with us it’s included every single time. A private session by 4×4 costs USD 190 (AED 699) per vehicle for up to 7 guests.
On every safari Included from USD 10 (AED 35) per guest, with dune bashing, camel riding and dinner.
On the board That’s normal safari time at the dunes, so you get several runs, not one quick slide.
Private session Reserve a private 4×4 or Land Cruiser, then continue boarding until your whole group is completely finished.
Back up the dune Our guide carries the board uphill after every descent, so your energy lasts considerably longer.
Kids welcome Children ride sitting down, with a parent positioned beside them on every single descent.
Al Awir or Lahbab Golden dunes close to the city, or taller red dunes by private Land Cruiser.
Packages
Sandboarding Dubai Packages and Prices
Four different ways to experience the dunes with our team. Safari seats are priced per guest, while private vehicles are priced per car for up to 7.
Travellers’ ChoiceTripadvisorWorld Travel AwardsAward winner★4.9 rating10,000+ reviews✓DTCM licensedDubai, since 2015⛑Roll cageSeat belts, helmets$No depositPay on the day↺Free cancellationUp to 12 hours before◷No passport heldNo licence needed1 · Unlimited timePrivate Sandboarding Session
Your own 4×4 collects you, drives directly to the dunes and waits patiently. Board for as long as you like, then we return you home.
- Board as long as you like
- Guide carries the board back up
- Pickup from your hotel or home
About USD 27 each when 7 share the 4×4
2 · Most bookedEvening Safari, Sandboarding Included
The classic evening near Al Awir includes up to 30 minutes of sandboarding at the dunes. Afterwards come the sunset, camels, the BBQ dinner and three performances.
- Sandboarding free, up to 30 minutes
- Dune bashing 20 to 30 minutes
- BBQ buffet and three live shows
Under 3s free · From age 3 the adult price
3 · Cooler sandPrivate Morning Safari With Sandboarding
Families particularly enjoy the morning, because the sand remains cool and the light stays gentle. The dunes are also quiet before the temperature climbs.
- Private Land Cruiser, up to 7
- Dune bashing and sandboarding
- Back in the city before lunch
About USD 39 each when 7 share
4 · Add speedAdd a Quad or Buggy
Board first, then drive across the dunes yourself on a quad or buggy. Our guide accompanies every single quad and buggy ride.
- Automatic quads, helmet and goggles
- Can-Am or Polaris buggies
- Book with any safari or session
Buggy drivers 16 and over
Plan and price
Sandboarding Planner: Your Price and Your Board Time
Choose how you want to board and how many people are joining. The planner calculates the total, the price per guest and your available board time. One tap sends everything to our team.
Board styles
Stand Up, Sit Down or Lie Down?
You honestly don’t need to know how to snowboard. Pick whichever style feels right, and swap whenever you fancy.
Best first runSit down
Sit on the board with your feet forward and hold the front edge firmly. Lean backwards to reduce speed, which makes this ideal for children and nervous beginners.
The fastest way downLie belly down
Lie on your stomach, head first, and keep your elbows tucked close to your body. It feels like a toboggan and delivers the fastest descent on soft sand.
For snowboardersStand up
Strap your feet in, bend your knees and keep your weight on the back foot. It usually takes several attempts, although snowboarders often manage it on the second descent.
Never tried winter sports before? Most of our guests haven’t either, so the guide demonstrates the stance at the top before your first descent.
Time on the board
How Long Do You Actually Get to Sandboard?
This is the most important question to ask any operator before booking. Many tours squeeze one quick slide between dune bashing and dinner. Here is exactly what you receive with us.
| Package | Board time | What it feels like | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evening safari, shared | Up to 30 minutes | Several runs at the dune stop before sunset | USD 10 to 41 per guest |
| Private morning safari | Up to 30 minutes | Cool sand, quiet dunes and absolutely no rush | USD 272 per car |
| Private sandboarding session | As long as you like | The vehicle waits while your group continues boarding | USD 190 per car |
| Private, Lahbab red dunes | As long as you like | Taller dunes, reached exclusively by Land Cruiser | USD 272 per car |
Swipe the table
Why do some visitors describe sandboarding as slow? Sand creates more friction than snow, and a short slope finishes before you build any speed. We therefore choose a longer face and keep every climb manageable. Our guide also carries the board back uphill, which is honestly the most tiring part.
Best dunes
Where to Go Sandboarding in Dubai
Not every dune is suitable for a board, so the location matters considerably. Here is how the main areas compare, together with the ones our team actually uses.
| Area | Drive | The dunes | With us |
|---|---|---|---|
| Al Awir | About 50 to 55 minutes from central Dubai | Golden, rolling dunes with gentle slopes that suit first timers and younger children. | Our evening safari and private 4×4 sessions |
| Lahbab red dunes | About 1 hour 10 minutes by Land Cruiser | Orange red sand and noticeably taller faces, which create longer and faster descents. | Our private Land Cruiser sessions |
| Al Badayer (Big Red) | On the Dubai to Hatta road | A well known tall dune listed by Visit Dubai, although it is frequently busy with quads. | Not one of our sites |
| Al Qudra | South of the city | Smaller dunes beside the cycle track, more popular for photography than for boarding. | Not one of our sites |
Swipe the table
The area names for Al Badayer and Al Qudra come from Visit Dubai’s sandboarding guide.
Al Awir: open in Google Maps. Lahbab red dunes: open in Google Maps. Prefer the complete evening on red sand? Our red dune desert safari covers it.
Kids
Sandboarding With Kids in Dubai
Children frequently enjoy sandboarding more than the dune bashing itself. Here is how our team keeps the experience comfortable and safe for them.
Children from 3 can board sitting down, with a parent positioned directly beside them.
Babies travel free on a parent’s lap and can watch everything comfortably from the top.
We begin younger children on a gentle face, then move higher whenever they feel ready.
Sitting keeps little ones low and slower, so standing can comfortably wait for another visit.
Prone to motion sickness? We drive you to the dunes by road, and you still board normally.
The sand stays considerably cooler during the morning, which certainly helps smaller feet.
Planning a complete family evening? Our family desert safari page explains the food, the seating and the gentle drive.
Private session
How a Private Sandboarding Session Works
There is no camp and no clock to watch during a private session. It is simply the dunes, the boards and your own group.
You choosePickup
We collect you
Your private 4×4 or Land Cruiser collects you anywhere in Dubai, Sharjah or Ajman. Up to 7 people travel together.
At the dunesBriefing
Boards and a two minute briefing
The guide demonstrates the three riding styles, then selects a slope that suits your particular group.
On the boardYour pace
Run after run
Ride down, then let the guide carry the board back uphill. Rest inside the vehicle whenever necessary, then continue.
When you are donePhotos
Photos on the crest
Golden hour on the dunes produces the most memorable photographs. Bring sunglasses and a fully charged telephone.
AfterHome
Back to your door
We drive you back, sandy but delighted. Add dune bashing on the return journey if you would like.
Send your date, group size and pickup area. We confirm the vehicle and the timing in writing.
Money
What Sandboarding in Dubai Costs, in Plain Words
There is no board fee and no hidden extra anywhere. Here is exactly how the pricing works.
Sandboarding costs nothing additional on our evening, morning and private safaris throughout the year.
USD 190 (AED 699) by 4×4, or USD 272 (AED 999) by Land Cruiser, covering up to 7 guests.
Nothing is payable online. Settle up on the day with cash in any currency, or by card with an 8 to 10% bank fee.
Cancellation is free up to 12 hours beforehand. Unsuitable weather means we reschedule or release you completely.
Babies under 3 travel free on a lap. From age 3 the adult price applies on shared safaris.
Every displayed price already includes our limited time discount of up to 30%.
Tell us your group size and preferred date. We reply with the complete total on WhatsApp.
First run tips
How to Sandboard: Six Tips for Your First Run
Is sandboarding in Dubai safe? Yes, provided the slope matches your ability and you understand how to stop. These six recommendations cover almost every first descent.
Keep your weight on the back foot or your hips, because leaning forward digs the nose in.
Focus your eyes on the bottom of the slope instead of looking down at your feet.
Losing balance? Simply sit down sideways, and the soft sand provides a gentle landing.
Sand sprays upwards whenever you stop, so sunglasses protect your eyes properly.
Trainers are considerably better than sandals, because the sand becomes hot after midday.
Leave your telephone with somebody at the top, or zip it securely inside a pocket.
For clothing, choose light long trousers, a T-shirt, a cap and a light jacket for winter evenings. Dubai’s average high is about 24 °C in January, according to Dubai climate records. July and August average above 40 °C, so November to March is the comfortable season. During summer, boarding works best early in the morning.
Included
What Is Included With Sandboarding
✓Included
- Boards for standing, sitting or lying down
- A short briefing at the top of the dune
- Our guide who carries the board back up
- Water during the session
- Private sessions: pickup, the car waiting, and the drive back
- Safaris: dune bashing, camel ride, BBQ dinner and three shows
✕Not included
- Quad bike: from USD 27 (AED 100) for 30 minutes
- Dune buggy: from USD 163 (AED 600) for 30 minutes
- Photographer: USD 14 to 41 (AED 50 to 150)
- Buying a board to take home
- Tips are up to you, and our drivers never ask
Photos
Sandboarding Dubai Photos
Boards, dunes and happy, sandy guests. Tap any photograph to see it in a larger size.
Guest reviews
What Guests Say About Our Dunes
These guests boarded and rode with our team. Overall we hold 4.9 stars across 10,000+ reviews since 2015.
4.9
From 10,000+ guest reviews on Google, Tripadvisor and WhatsApp
Hannah M. Verified guest · Google review ★★★★★If you’re in Dubai and looking for a quad biking experience, this place is perfect! We were truly looked after by our guide Taimoor who made us feel extremely comfortable and safe. We also experienced sand boarding at no extra cost which we were extremely grateful for. Thank you
Katie Carys Verified guest · Google review ★★★★★Fantastic trip with Abdul. Picked up from the hotel and driven out to the desert, where we did buggy and camel riding. Then we drove through the dune, did boarding and got pictures! Abdul was wonderful, very helpful and made sure we got the most out of our experience. Value for money was great too. Thank you!
Rhys Davies Verified guest · Google review ★★★★★Had a fantastic late afternoon and evening, the kids (8 and 3) loved the experience in the desert. Had the “VIP” experience, which was much better for the family and more relaxing. Our guide was Shaban, very pleasent and professional gentlemen. Highly recommend!
Barbara Bando Verified guest · Google review ★★★★★We had the best time with our driver Asim!! He’s excellent driver. He was so kind with our daughter because she has motion sickness. We recommend them highly!!
Book
Book Sandboarding in Three Steps
- Choose your wayPrivate session, or free with an evening or morning safari.
- Send a messageYour date, group size and pickup area.
- Board and pay on the dayNo deposit, nothing online.
We answer on WhatsApp day and night.
- 4.9from 10,000+ reviews
- 95,000+guests since 2015
- LicensedDCT Abu Dhabi, DTCM Dubai
- No depositpay on the day
Local operator, Dubai
Tips From the Team on the Dunes
Our team runs Royal Arabian Safari Tourism LLC, a DTCM-Licensed Operator, with our own cars and guides. We have worked the Al Awir and Lahbab dunes since 2015, and these are the tips our guides share.
- Choose late afternoon or early morning. Midday sand becomes very hot, and the slopes stay quieter outside the busy safari hours.
- Choose the longer face. Our guides know which slopes still run fast after a particularly windy day.
- Wax is not the secret. Slope length matters considerably more, which is why we avoid the flat sand beside the camp.
- Empty your shoes before the car. Shake out the sand at the crest, and the journey home stays much cleaner.
Reviewed by Bilal Ahmed, Founder and Managing Director of Royal Arabian Safari Tourism LLC. Written by our Dubai operations team. Checked on 3 November 2026.
Questions
Sandboarding Dubai: Your Questions Answered
Is there sandboarding in Dubai?
Yes. You slide down the desert dunes on a board, either standing, sitting or lying on your stomach. Most visitors experience sandboarding during a desert safari with an experienced guide.
Where is the best place for sandboarding in Dubai?
First timers usually enjoy the golden dunes near Al Awir, which have gentle and forgiving slopes. For longer and faster descents, choose the Lahbab red dunes by private Land Cruiser.
How much does sandboarding cost in Dubai?
With us, sandboarding is included on every safari, which begins at USD 10 (AED 35) per guest. A private session costs USD 190 (AED 699) per 4×4 for up to 7 guests.
Is sandboarding included in a desert safari?
Yes, on every one of our safaris throughout the year. You receive up to 30 minutes on the board at the dunes, without any additional charge.
How long do you get to sandboard on a safari?
Normally up to 30 minutes at the dune stop, which allows several proper descents. Reserve a private session if your group would like to continue for longer.
Can I book sandboarding without a safari?
Absolutely. Reserve a private 4×4 or Land Cruiser purely for sandboarding, without the camp, the performances or any time limit.
Is sandboarding in Dubai worth it?
It definitely is when you receive a decent slope and enough descents. Many of our guests describe it as the most enjoyable part of their desert experience.
Is sandboarding hard for beginners?
Not when you begin sitting down, because balance hardly matters. Standing usually takes several attempts, and the guide demonstrates the stance before your first descent.
Is sandboarding on the Dubai dunes safe?
Yes, provided the slope matches your ability and you follow the briefing. Lean backwards, look ahead, and sit down sideways whenever you lose balance.
What age can kids sandboard in Dubai?
Children from age 3 can board sitting down, with a parent positioned beside them. Babies under 3 travel free and can watch comfortably from the top.
Can I sandboard if I get motion sickness from dune bashing?
Certainly. Tell us beforehand, and we drive you to the dunes by road instead. You still enjoy sandboarding exactly like everybody else.
Should I stand or sit on the sandboard?
Sit for your first descent, and lie on your stomach whenever you want more speed. Stand up once you feel confident, particularly if you already snowboard.
Is sandboarding like snowboarding?
The stance is similar, although sand is noticeably slower and considerably softer than snow. Snowboarders usually adapt quickly, and falls are generally much gentler.
What clothes work best for sandboarding in Dubai?
Choose light long trousers, a T-shirt, closed shoes, sunglasses and a cap. Add a light jacket during winter evenings, when the desert cools quickly.
Can I wear sandals for sandboarding?
Trainers are considerably better than sandals for sandboarding. The sand becomes hot after midday, and sandals fill with sand during every climb.
What is the best time of day to sandboard?
Early morning or late afternoon works best for sandboarding in Dubai. The sand remains cooler, and the softer light produces wonderful photographs.
What is the best month for sandboarding in Dubai?
November to March is the most comfortable period for sandboarding. Average daytime highs sit around 24 to 31 °C, so the dunes feel pleasant.
Do you have to walk back up the dune?
Our guide carries your board back uphill after every descent. You still walk up the slope yourself, so take a relaxed pace between descents.
Do I need to bring my own sandboard?
No, we provide every board, so there is absolutely no need to purchase or rent equipment beforehand.
Can I buy a sandboard in Dubai?
Certain sports shops sell sandboards, although visitors honestly don’t need one for a holiday. Our boards are provided with every session and safari.
Is sand surfing the same as sandboarding?
Yes, these names describe the same activity. Sand surfing, dune surfing and sand skiing all refer to riding a board down the dunes.
Can we sandboard on the Lahbab red dunes?
Yes. Reserve our private Land Cruiser for USD 272 (AED 999) per vehicle, which comfortably carries up to 7 guests.
Do you pick us up for sandboarding?
Yes. Every private session includes collection and return anywhere in Dubai, Sharjah or Ajman.
Can I add a quad bike or buggy?
Certainly. Quad bikes begin at USD 27 (AED 100) for 30 minutes. Our quad biking Dubai page explains the open dunes.
Can I drive to the dunes myself?
Yes, on the evening safari you can park at our meeting point near Al Awir. Our self drive desert safari page explains the route.
Is there sandboarding on the morning safari?
Yes. Our private morning safari includes dune bashing and sandboarding, with noticeably cooler sand than the afternoon.
Can pregnant guests try sandboarding?
We advise against sandboarding during pregnancy, and against dune bashing too. Expectant mothers are always welcome to join the group and watch.
Is there a weight or height limit?
We haven’t set any weight or height limit for sandboarding. Please mention any back, neck or heart condition before booking.
Can I book sandboarding for today?
Yes, same day reservations are welcome whenever availability allows. Send your group size on WhatsApp, and we confirm very quickly.
Is there a deposit for sandboarding?
No deposit is required for any booking. Simply pay on the day, either in cash in any currency or by card with an 8 to 10% bank fee.
Can I cancel my sandboarding booking?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 12 hours beforehand. If unsuitable weather stops the trip, we reschedule or release you completely.
Is there sandboarding in Abu Dhabi too?
Yes. Our sandboarding in Abu Dhabi operates from our camp at Al Khatim, with separate prices.
How do I book sandboarding in Dubai?
Tap Book now, or send your date and group size on WhatsApp. We confirm everything in writing, usually within minutes.
Keep exploring
Explore More With Royal Arabian Safari
Planning more than one day out? Here are our other desert trips, plus the city tours and attractions guests often add.
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