About this experience
Experience the sunrise over Abu Dhabi's Al Khatim Desert on a half-day tour. As you head towards the desert, observe the beauty of the pre-dawn desert landscape. Take in the sunrise as it brightens the desert, before setting off on an adrenaline-pumping 4x4 ride through towering sand dunes. Then, immerse yourself in authentic Emirati culture at a traditional Bedouin-inspired campsite, where you can engage in other exciting activities like camel riding with an expert guide.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Hotel pick-up
5:30 AMYour driver collects you from your Abu Dhabi city-centre hotel before dawn.
Arrive at Al Khatim Desert
6:00 AMReach the desert as the sky begins to lighten, setting the scene for the sunrise ahead.
Sunrise viewing
Watch the sun rise over the dunes in one of the UAE's most photogenic natural settings.
Dune bashing
Buckle up for an exhilarating 4x4 ride across the high dunes with a skilled driver at the wheel.
Bedouin campsite & camel ride
Explore a traditional Bedouin-inspired camp and take a guided camel ride to round off the desert experience.
Return to hotel
11:00 AMShared transfer drops you back at your Abu Dhabi city-centre hotel.
Meeting point
Al Khatim Desert, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Pick-up is from hotels within Abu Dhabi city centre at 5:30 AM. Confirm your exact hotel address at the time of booking so the driver can locate you. Your mobile ticket or booking confirmation is all you need to show.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing suitable for the desert
- Closed-toe shoes or trainers (sandals are not ideal for dune bashing)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A light layer for the pre-dawn chill
- Your booking confirmation (mobile ticket accepted)
Know before you go
Good to know
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Frequently asked questions
Can children join the tour?
Children under 3 are welcome at no charge, though no seat will be reserved for them. Children under 16 are not permitted to participate in the dune-bashing activity, but they can still enjoy the campsite and camel ride.
Is this tour suitable if I'm pregnant or have a back condition?
No — the dune-bashing element involves significant jolts and sharp movements. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with back problems.
Where exactly do I get picked up?
Pick-up is from your hotel within Abu Dhabi city centre at 5:30 AM. Provide your hotel details when booking and the driver will come to you.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No — a mobile ticket displayed on your phone is accepted. There's no need to print anything.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary is subject to change due to weather and traffic conditions. If the tour cannot run, you will be notified in advance.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs from approximately 5:30 AM to 11:00 AM — roughly five and a half hours including transfers.
Free cancellation.Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the start time are non-refundable.