AD. While planning your journey to the UAE, don’t forget that the country is surrounded by the dunes of the Arabian Desert. Being tired of the luxury lifestyle and skyscrapers, it’s high time to switch your attention to desert lands that tempt tourists with their beauty and unlimited power of nature. On the one hand, the desert lands of the UAE are a perfect place for off-road adventures while on the other hand, you need to know some important things not to violate any laws and take care of your safety.
The Empty Quarter: Which Desert Lands Are Available for Off-Road Trips?
There are some protected areas prohibited for tourists who want to explore them on their own. Here is the list of such areas:
- Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (to the southeast of Dubai);
- Al Ghada Protected Area (to the north of Abu-Dhabi);
- Al Beda’a Protected Area (to the north of Abu-Dhabi);
- Al Ramlah Protected Area (to the northwest of Abu-Dhabi).
As for the other corners of the Empty Quarter (the nickname of the Emirati part of the Arabian Desert), those are waiting for you.
Now you understand how not to violate local laws – you just need to avoid protected areas. That’s exceptionally simple. What about your personal safety?
Key Stages of the Off-Road Trip Preparation
Rent a Car to Conquer Desert Lands
First and foremost, you need a vehicle that is ready for off-road trips. A gorgeous Lamborghini or a luxurious Ferrari matches only the city vibes. When talking about the desert, permeability is among the most important characteristics.
If you want to rent Jeep Wrangler Abu Dhabi then many rentals are ready to offer multiple solutions, and such a vehicle seems to become one of the most reliable cars for conquering desert lands. A model with a long history that has proven its reliability and endurance, Wrangler is rightfully called the king of off-road.
Meanwhile, other SUV options are available as well. Just apply to a reliable car rental company and let a qualified expert give you a piece of advice on which car will make your off-road desert trip safe and comfortable.
Take Enough Food and Water
Tourists usually plan to spend just 1-2 days in the sandy lands; meanwhile, take some extra food and water just in case. Emergencies are highly unlikely, but experienced travelers are always ready for all the situations.
Plan your Route Carefully
Before going to the desert lands, one needs to get a carefully planned route; otherwise, you have a high chance of getting lost and even crossing the border of neighboring countries.
Once your off-road trip route is planned, take several GPS navigators with the route entered there. Make sure that GPS systems function correctly when offline. This measure is exceptionally important to help you follow the route strictly.
Desert Attractions and Opportunities
Well, you have found a reliable company to rent a vehicle, get a legendary Jeep Wrangler, and prepare everything for an off-road trip. What’s next? What should you do in the desert heart of the UAE? In fact, there are multiple opportunities to meet the expectations of the most demanding tourists:
- Ride the dunes and enjoy the endless desert lands.
- Watch the sunset in the desert. Just believe that it is one of the most beautiful nature scenes you have ever seen.
- Spend the night in the desert under the enchanting starry sky and imagine yourself an ancient Bedouin or Indiana Jones looking for unique treasures.

Abu Dhabi's off-road desert trip is something that will take its rightful place in the collection of your Emirati memories.


