There's something wonderfully simple about sandboarding. You climb a dune, point your board downhill and go. Seconds later you're at the bottom, covered in sand, laughing and ready to do it again. Sandboarding Abu Dhabi style is one of the most fun, easy-going activities in the desert, and it's included in all our safaris.
No experience? No problem. If you can stand on a skateboard or sit on a sled, you can sandboard.
What Is Sandboarding?
Sandboarding is like snowboarding, but on sand. You ride a board down a dune, either standing up or sitting down. The soft desert sand makes for a smooth, forgiving surface, and falling is part of the fun.
Two Ways to Ride
Sitting Down (Sledding)
The easiest way to start. Sit on the board, hold the front edge, lift your feet and let gravity do the work. Kids love this, and it's surprisingly fast.
Standing Up (Boarding)
For those who want a challenge. Stand sideways on the board, bend your knees, keep your weight centred and lean slightly back. If you've snowboarded or surfed before, you'll pick it up quickly.
Sandboarding Tips for Beginners
- Start on a smaller slope before tackling the big dunes.
- Keep your weight back to stop the nose of the board digging in.
- Bend your knees and stay relaxed.
- Wax the board. Our guides keep the boards waxed for a smoother, faster ride.
- Fall backwards, not forwards, if you lose balance.
- Walk up at the side, not on the boarding track, to keep the slope smooth.
Is Sandboarding Safe?
Yes. The sand is soft, and our guides choose slopes that match your experience. Children should board sitting down on gentle slopes, with an adult nearby. Sandboarding isn't recommended for pregnant women or anyone with back, neck or joint problems.
What to Wear
- Clothes you don't mind getting sandy
- Long trousers to protect your legs
- Sunglasses or goggles
- Closed shoes or barefoot on cooler sand (sand can be very hot in the afternoon)
- Phones in a zipped pocket or left in the car
Best Time for Sandboarding in Abu Dhabi
- Morning: Cool, firm sand and quiet dunes. The best choice in summer.
- Late afternoon: Golden light and great photos, before the evening safari dinner.
- Season: October to April is the most comfortable.
Where to Sandboard in Abu Dhabi
We take guests to the red dunes outside the city, including the Al Khatim area, where there's a good mix of gentle and steep slopes.
Sandboarding Is Included in Our Safaris
You don't need to book sandboarding separately. It's included in:
- Evening Desert Safari
- Morning Desert Safari
- VIP Desert Safari
- Overnight Desert Safari
- Private Desert Safari (on request)
Want extra time on the board? Ask about a private safari with a longer sandboarding session.
Sandboarding Abu Dhabi: What It Feels Like
Your first run is usually a little wobbly. The board feels slow at the top, then picks up speed as you drop down the slope. By your second or third go, you'll start to feel the board respond to your weight, and that's when sandboarding in Abu Dhabi gets really fun. Most guests can't resist one more run, even though climbing back up the dune is a workout of its own.
Sandboarding for Groups and Families
Sandboarding is a brilliant group activity. Families race each other down the dune, friends film each other's best (and worst) runs, and corporate teams turn it into a friendly competition. Because it's low-cost and low-risk, it's one of the most inclusive desert activities around.
Combine It With Other Activities
- Camel ride: right after sandboarding at camp
- Quad bike or dune buggy: for more speed and adrenaline
- Sunset photos: sandboarding silhouettes against the setting sun look amazing
How to Book
WhatsApp +971 50 930 0406 or email booking@desertsafaridunes.com.
Sandboarding FAQs
Do I need experience to go sandboarding?
No. Beginners can sit on the board, and our guides will give you tips.
Is sandboarding included in the desert safari?
Yes. It's included in all our evening and morning safaris.
Can kids go sandboarding?
Yes. Children love it. We recommend sitting on the board on gentle slopes.
Is sandboarding like snowboarding?
Similar, but slower and softer. If you snowboard, you'll find it easy to learn.
How many runs can I do?
As many as you like during the sandboarding stop, usually around 15–20 minutes on our safaris.
Book Sandboarding
Send us your request. We confirm availability, the price and your pickup time on WhatsApp or email.
