How to Drive a Desert Dune Buggy in Dubai?

Franklin Bob Desert Safari March 13, 2025

Do you ever look at those crazy desert dune buggy videos and think, “Man, I wish I could do that!”? Well, guess what? You totally can. Driving a dune buggy in the Dubai desert is not just for pros. No matter that you are a beginner or have some dune buggying experience with off-road driving, we at ESA Dune Buggy Dubai will help you learn how to drive a dune buggy in Dubai desert. So, let’s dive in.

Understanding A Dune Buggy

Let's begin by understanding what a dune buggy is. It's a vehicle that looks like a simple Volkswagen, but without doors or a roof, and with big wheels that can easily drive over sand dunes.It's made to be simple, with an open body and a special engine that works well on sand. Unlike normal cars, dune buggies are built to handle rough desert sand and off-road driving.

What Is the Dubai Dune Buggy Excursion?

A dune buggy tour in Dubai is the ultimate adventure where you get to drive a dune buggy across the golden sand dunes. It’s a perfect mix of excitement and natural beauty. This isn’t just a regular sightseeing tour, it’s all about feeling the thrill of speeding through the desert. With our Private Dune buggy ride and Group Dune buggy tour, we take you deep into the Arabian desert. You’ll drive a buggy over tough dunes, see amazing views, and stop for some great photos. Guided by experts, you’ll explore untouched desert areas while riding a powerful machine built for the sand.

How To Drive A Dune Buggy?

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you master the art of driving a dune buggy in the Dubai desert, ensuring a smooth and thrilling experience from start to finish.

  1. Preparing for Your Dune Buggy Adventure

For preparation keep in mind:

  • Choosing the Right Gear: Comfort is key when preparing for a dune buggy adventure. Wear light, breathable, long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin from the sun and sand. Sturdy closed-toe shoes will protect your feet from the rugged desert floor, while sunglasses and a hat will keep the sun out of your eyes.
  • Physical Preparation: Desert conditions can be extreme, so it’s important to be well-rested and hydrated. Avoid heavy meals before your ride and drink plenty of water to stay energized throughout the adventure.
  1. Take Safety Precautions

Safety should always be your top priority. Before heading out into the desert, make sure you are briefed on the following:

  • Safety Briefing: Pay attention to your guide’s instructions regarding vehicle operation, terrain, and emergency procedures. This is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Recognizing Hazards: Desert driving comes with its own set of challenges, such as steep slopes, loose sand, and unexpected wildlife crossings. Stay alert to your surroundings at all times and follow the guide's instructions closely.
  • Emergency Procedures: In case of an emergency, stay calm and follow the guide’s directions. It’s important to have the guide's contact information handy and understand the steps to take if something goes wrong.
  1. Know Some Dune Buggy Driving Techniques

Driving a dune buggy is an exciting and hands-on experience, but it’s important to be mindful of certain techniques to stay in control:

  • Starting: Begin by slowly getting used to the vehicle’s controls. Gradually increase speed as you feel more comfortable. Sudden movements can cause you to lose control, so take it easy at first.
  • Navigating Dunes: Dune buggies are built to tackle sand dunes, but mastering the art of steering, accelerating, and braking is crucial. Always steer gently, avoid sharp turns, and anticipate the shifting sand as you climb over dunes.
  • Maintaining Control: Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, but don’t overexert yourself. The key is smooth and controlled movements. Avoid sharp turns and always maintain a steady speed to avoid tipping over.

Are Dubai Dune Buggies Safe?

Yes, Our Dune buggies are safe. Our dune buggies are built with roll cages, safety harnesses, and reinforced structures to keep you secure, even if you take a rough turn. Before you even hit the gas, our expert guides will give you a full rundown on how to handle the buggy, what to do in tricky situations, and how to stay in control. Plus, with regular vehicle inspections and top-tier safety standards, you’re in for a thrilling yet completely safe experience.

How Fast Can a Dubai Dune Buggy Go?

A Dubai dune buggy can reach speeds of up to 60 mph (97 km/h) on open sand. While it’s thrilling to go fast, the real challenge is controlling that speed over the shifting dunes. Smooth acceleration, controlled turns, and knowing when to ease off the gas are essential for a safe and enjoyable ride across the desert.

Can You Drive a Dune Buggy on the Road in Dubai?

Nope, you can’t drive a dune buggy on a road in Dubai.. Dune buggies are built for off-road terrains only, meaning you won’t see them cruising down the Sheikh Zayed Road. But that’s the point, you don’t need a road when you have an entire desert as your playground.

All dune buggy rides happen in designated desert safari zones, ensuring maximum fun while staying within UAE regulations. So, if you're craving that off-road adventure, book a tour with ESA Dune Buggy Dubai and let’s hit the sand.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Drive a Dune Buggy in Dubai?

Most tour operators (including us) require drivers to be at least 18 years old, though some premium buggies might have a 21+ age restriction due to their higher power and performance.

Passengers, on the other hand, can often be as young as 10 years old, making dune buggy tours a fantastic activity for adventurous families.

How Much Does It Cost to Ride a Dune Buggy in Dubai?

The price of a dune buggy ride in Dubai varies based on the type of buggy, ride duration, and any additional add-ons you select. Generally, you can expect to pay between AED 350 to AED 600 per person for a standard buggy rental. For those seeking a more thrilling experience, higher-end, turbo-powered buggies can cost up to AED 1,000 or more for premium rides. Most tours include a guide, safety gear, refreshments, and a well-maintained buggy. For the ultimate adventure, consider a private buggy tour, offering a personalized experience without waiting for slower drivers,just pure, uninterrupted fun.

How Many People Can Sit in a Dune Buggy?

A dune buggy can seat up to four people. Dune buggies come in different sizes: single-seaters for solo adventurers, two-seaters for you and a buddy, and four-seaters for small groups or families. Each seat is designed with safety and comfort in mind, ensuring everyone enjoys an unobstructed view of the stunning desert landscape.

Can You Ride a Dune Buggy While Pregnant?

Honestly? We wouldn’t recommend it. Dune buggy rides can be bumpy, unpredictable, and physically intense, which isn’t ideal if you’re expecting. For safety, we advise pregnant women to sit this one out and explore other desert activities like camel rides, desert camping, or cultural experiences instead.

What Are The Risks Of Driving A Buggy On Sand In Dubai, Uae?

Driving a dune buggy on sand in Dubai carries certain risks, including

  1. Rollovers
  2. Loss of control
  3. Dehydration
  4. Collisions
  5. Encounters with wildlife.

However, at ESA Tours, we ensure that your tour is risk-free by providing experienced guides, top-quality equipment, and comprehensive safety briefings. Our goal is to make sure you have a thrilling yet safe adventure in the desert, with all the necessary precautions in place to keep you secure and comfortable throughout the ride.

Book Your Dubai Dune Buggy Adventure Today!

Now, you know exactly what it takes to drive a dune buggy in Dubai,the speed, the technique, and the safety precautions. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned off-roader, we at ESA Dune Buggy Dubai are here to make sure your experience is unforgettable.

Franklin Bob

Franklin specializes in desert adventures like dune buggy rides and desert safaris, he brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to every piece of content he creates. Franklin’s expertise and engaging storytelling make him a trusted guide for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences in Dubai’s stunning desert landscape.

Whatsapp chat