Many residents of the United Arab Emirates own four-wheel-drive vehicles capable of traversing the desert, yet some have never ventured beyond city roads and highways. Despite the desire to experience dune driving, they are held back by fears of getting stuck in the sand, damaging their vehicles, and unfamiliarity with the terrain.
As cooler months encourage people to spend more time outdoors, owners of some SUVs are now hoping to try desert driving for the first time, preferably under the guidance of experienced drivers who can teach the basics.
Abdul Basit, who bought a Toyota Land Cruiser last year, considered exploring the desert one of the reasons for choosing this vehicle, but has not yet tested its off-road capabilities. He noted: 'I bought my SUV because I wanted a car that could carry my whole family and handle various types of roads, including the desert. But since buying it, I have only driven in the city, on highways, and on family trips.'
Basit often watches videos where other drivers take similar cars into the dunes. Although he is very eager to try it himself, he does not want his first experience to end with the car getting stuck in the sand. He added: 'The car is capable, but I lack experience. I don't want to just drive into the desert without knowing what I am doing. I always wanted to try, but I would prefer to go with someone experienced who could guide me on the first trip.'
Amr Mahmoud, a sales manager at an elite watch boutique, acquired a GWM Tank earlier this year, which gave him the opportunity to explore areas outside regular routes. Nevertheless, despite owning an SUV, he has not yet gone into the desert. He shared: 'Every winter I see groups of people heading into the desert in their SUVs, and I have always wanted to join them. Now I have an SUV, but I have never driven off the beaten path.'
His main concern relates to not knowing what to do if problems arise, especially if the vehicle gets stuck in soft sand. Mahmoud explained: 'My biggest worry is getting stuck in the sand because I won't know how to get the car out. I also don't know how to determine which dunes are safe for a beginner.'
Mahmoud plans to try desert driving this winter and hopes to make it a regular weekend activity after mastering the basics.
According to Ahmed Farvez, founder of Dubai Offroaders, having a powerful 4x4 vehicle does not guarantee that a driver is ready for desert trips. He strongly recommends: 'Before heading to the UAE dunes, study the basics of off-roading, tire pressure, vehicle recovery, and desert safety.'
Farvez highlighted three common mistakes made by beginners: driving with incorrect tire pressure, using sudden acceleration or sharp steering, and entering the desert without the support of experienced individuals. He advised drivers to lower their tire pressure appropriately under expert guidance and maintain smooth acceleration and steering to avoid losing control or getting stuck.
Another important aspect is determining whether the vehicle is suitable for crossing dunes. Farvez emphasized: 'Not all 4x4 vehicles are suitable for sand dunes,' explaining that owners must check the four-wheel-drive system, ground clearance, tires, cooling capacity, and manufacturer recommendations. He also recommended ensuring the vehicle has a low-range gearbox, which can be useful in difficult off-road conditions.
He concluded: 'Just having a 4x4 badge does not guarantee the ability to operate in the desert. Check your SUV with an experienced off-road specialist and learn the basics before attempting to conquer the dunes.'
For drivers who wish to test their vehicles in the sand independently, organized desert trips offer an opportunity to explore the area with support, rather than venturing into unknown areas alone.
The eighth edition of KT Desert Drive will take place on November 14th at the Bab Al Shams arena in Dubai. The event will allow participants to drive their own suitable 4x4 vehicles along a designated route in the desert, where checkpoints and support teams will be available along the way. Dubai Offroaders is the official partner of the off-road event, which brings together experienced drivers, beginners, and families for a day in the desert.
Nevertheless, Farvez reiterated that newcomers must grasp the fundamentals of desert driving before attempting to reach the dunes, even if traveling in a group. His advice for anyone planning their first desert trip is simple: never set out alone, bring necessary recovery equipment, and always travel with experienced drivers. He stressed: 'Safety depends on skills, not just on owning a powerful 4x4.'
