Some deserts are close and convenient. Liwa is something else entirely. Here, at the edge of the Rub al Khali, the Empty Quarter, the dunes rise like mountains and the sand seems to stretch forever. A Liwa desert safari is a full-day adventure into one of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth.
If you've done a standard evening safari and want to see the desert on a much grander scale, this is the trip for you.
Where Is Liwa?
Liwa Oasis is in the Al Dhafra region in the far south-west of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, close to the border with Saudi Arabia. It's roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Abu Dhabi city. The oasis is a crescent of small villages and date farms, surrounded by some of the tallest sand dunes in the world.
Highlights of a Liwa Desert Safari
Moreeb Dune (Tal Moreeb)
One of the tallest dunes in the region, Moreeb Dune is often said to rise around 300 metres. Its steep face is legendary among off-road drivers and hosts motorsport events in winter. Standing at its base and looking up is an experience you won't forget.
The Empty Quarter
The Rub al Khali is the largest continuous sand desert in the world, covering parts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen and the UAE. In Liwa, you see its northern edge: endless waves of golden-orange dunes with almost nothing else in sight.
Liwa Oasis
Green date palm plantations and small villages sit between the dunes, a striking contrast to the sand. It's a reminder of how people have lived in this region for generations.
Dune Bashing on Giant Dunes
Liwa's dunes are much bigger than those near the city. Our experienced drivers know how to handle them safely, giving you a thrilling ride with incredible views.
Sample Liwa Desert Safari Itinerary
- 6:00 AM: Pickup from your hotel in Abu Dhabi
- 9:00 AM: Arrive in Liwa, with a short stop at Liwa Oasis
- 9:30 AM: Visit Moreeb Dune and the surrounding area
- 10:30 AM: Dune bashing deep into the Empty Quarter dunes
- 12:30 PM: Lunch break
- 2:00 PM: Photo stops and free time on the dunes
- 3:30 PM: Drive back to Abu Dhabi
- 6:30 PM: Drop-off at your hotel
What's Included
- Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with experienced driver
- Pickup and drop-off from Abu Dhabi hotels
- Visit to Moreeb Dune and Liwa Oasis
- Dune bashing in the Empty Quarter
- Lunch, water and soft drinks
- Photo stops throughout the day
Liwa Overnight Camping
For the full experience, stay the night. Liwa's skies are some of the darkest in the UAE, far from city lights, and the stars are spectacular. Wake up to sunrise over the giant dunes. Ask us about overnight Liwa camping options.
Best Time to Visit Liwa
- October to April is ideal, with warm days and cool nights.
- December and January are the coolest months, perfect for camping.
- Summer is extremely hot in Liwa, so we don't recommend tours from June to August.
- The Liwa Date Festival in summer and winter motorsport events at Moreeb Dune can make the area busier.
What to Bring
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat
- Comfortable clothes and closed shoes
- A light jacket in winter
- Camera with spare battery or a power bank
- Motion sickness tablets if you need them, since the dune bashing is intense
Liwa Desert Safari vs Standard Abu Dhabi Safari
- Scale: Liwa's dunes are far taller and more dramatic than the dunes near the city.
- Distance: Liwa is about 2.5–3 hours away, while city desert areas are 45–60 minutes.
- Duration: A Liwa tour is a full day. A standard safari is half a day or an evening.
- Crowds: Liwa is remote and peaceful. City-area camps are livelier.
- Best for: Liwa suits adventurous travellers, photographers and repeat visitors. A standard safari suits first-timers and families.
Photography in Liwa
Liwa is a photographer's dream. The giant dunes create sweeping lines and deep shadows, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Bring a wide-angle lens for the landscapes and a zoom lens to capture vehicles climbing Moreeb Dune. Drone photography requires proper UAE registration and permissions, so check the rules before you fly.
How to Book
WhatsApp +971 50 930 0406 or email booking@desertsafaridunes.com to plan your Liwa desert safari.
Liwa Desert Safari FAQs
How far is Liwa from Abu Dhabi city?
About 2.5 to 3 hours by car.
How tall is Moreeb Dune?
It's commonly described as around 300 metres high, making it one of the tallest dunes in the region.
Is the Liwa desert safari a full-day trip?
Yes. Expect around 12 hours including travel.
Is the Liwa tour suitable for children?
Older children can join, but the long drive and intense dune bashing are better suited to adults and teens.
Can I do a Liwa trip from Dubai?
Yes, but it's a long day. We recommend staying overnight in Abu Dhabi or Liwa.
Book Liwa Desert Safari
Send us your request. We confirm availability, the price and your pickup time on WhatsApp or email.
