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Liwa Desert Safari – Adventures in the Empty Quarter

Discover the Liwa Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi with a guided journey into the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter), home to the UAE’s tallest dunes. Conquer the legendary Moreeb Dune and enjoy dune bashing, sandboarding, and stargazing. With camel farm visits and authentic cultural immersion, this experience is a serene alternative to crowded city desert tours.

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Best Liwa Desert Safari Tours from Abu Dhabi

Six handpicked Liwa Desert Safari experiences from a value-packed full-day introduction to a private overnight expedition deep in the Empty Quarter. Every tour is led by an experienced guide, includes hotel pickup from Abu Dhabi or Dubai, and comes with free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure. Choose the experience that matches your pace, budget, and appetite for adventure.

Liwa Full Day Desert Safari with Lunch From Abu Dhabi

Liwa Full Day Desert Safari with Lunch From Abu Dhabi

Liwa Osais Full-Day Trips
from AED 499 per adult
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Liwa Desert Overnight Camping Tour from Abu Dhabi

Liwa Desert Overnight Camping Tour

Empty Quarter Camping Tour
from AED 649 per adult
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Liwa Sunset Desert Safari

Private Liwa Sunset Desert Safari from Abu Dhabi

Empty Quarter Day Tour
from AED 599 per adult
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Self 4x4 Drive On Liwa Empty Quarter

Self 4x4 Drive On Liwa Empty Quarter

Off-road Desert Driving
from AED 1499 per adult
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Liwa Trekking and Overnight Desert Camping

Liwa Trekking and Overnight Desert Camping

Empty Quarter Trekking Tour
from AED 649 per adult
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Liwa Sunset Champagne Tour

Liwa Sunset Champagne Tour from Abu Dhabi

Empty Quarter Day Tour
from AED 799 per adult
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Liwa Desert Safari Guide: Explore the Empty Quarter & Liwa Oasis

Escape the ordinary and lose yourself in the golden expanse of the Liwa Desert, where the planet's highest dunes and boundless adventures await you.

Liwa, the largest oasis in the Arabian Peninsula, lies on the southern edge of the vast Rub’ al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter. This expansive sand desert, covering an astonishing 650,000 square kilometres, is home to some of the world’s tallest dunes, reaching up to 300 meters in height. With its breathtaking golden landscape, Liwa has not only captivated travellers but has also served as a stunning backdrop for numerous blockbuster films, highlighting its unparalleled beauty and grandeur.

Liwa is also known for its deep historical and cultural significance, having once been the ancestral home of the ruling families of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Feel the thrill of conquering the towering sand dunes during a heart-racing dune bashing ride and when the night falls, escape the city lights and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the desert, gazing at a sky ablaze with twinkling stars. Embrace the desert’s heritage as you hop onto a majestic Majaheem camel—native to Liwa and known for its striking black coat—and set off on a captivating camel trek across the golden expanse.

Discover the magic of the Liwa Desert—where adventure, history and breathtaking landscapes come together, right now.

Why Choose Our Liwa Desert Safari in the Empty Quarter

Unique Experiences

Conquering Tel Moreeb, one of the world’s tallest dunes at 300 meters with a 50° incline, is the ultimate thrill. The Liwa Desert Safari offers adrenaline-pumping dune bashing on this towering giant. Beyond the dunes, visit traditional camel farms to meet majestic Majaheem camels, explore Bedouin heritage and see their desert adaptability.

Expert Local Guides

Embark on an adventure with our licensed drivers, experts in desert navigation. Whether a morning trip or an overnight expedition, they skilfully tackle the Empty Quarter’s terrain for a safe, smooth and thrilling experience. With specialized licenses and a commitment to hospitality, they ensure an unforgettable journey.

Safety Assurance

Your safety is our priority, with well-maintained vehicles, emergency support and expert briefings for a worry-free adventure.

Top Things to Do on a Liwa Desert Safari

Dune Bashing

Dune Bashing

Nicknamed "Scary Mountain," Tel Moreeb is a 300-meter-high dune with a 50-degree incline, making it one of the world’s tallest. Located in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region, it is a hotspot for dune bashing, drawing motorsports enthusiasts, especially during the Liwa International Festival and the Moreeb Hill Climb. Visitors can tackle its steep slopes in powerful 4x4 vehicles or soak in breathtaking views from the summit.

Stargazing

Stargazing

Far from city lights, the Liwa Desert offers one of the world’s clearest, most unpolluted night skies. As darkness blankets the vast Rub’ al Khali, the sky transforms into a mesmerizing canvas of twinkling stars. Whether lying on the cool desert sands or gazing up from a cosy camp, the brilliance of the Milky Way stretching across the horizon is breathtaking.

Camel Farm Visit

Camel Farm Visit

A Liwa Desert Safari offers a chance to visit a local camel farm and encounter Majaheem camels, known for their distinctive black coats. These camels, originating from north-eastern Saudi Arabia, are prized for dairy production. With long legs, a prominent hump and thick hair, they stand apart from the more common brown camels found across the UAE. A farm visit provides insight into these unique creatures and their significance in Bedouin culture and the regional economy.

Sandboarding

Sandboarding

Sandboarding in the Liwa Desert is an exhilarating adventure for all levels. Glide down towering dunes—some over 100 meters high—as you experience the desert’s answer to snowboarding. Whether you're a seasoned boarder or a first-timer, the soft golden sands ensure a safe yet thrilling ride. With breathtaking desert views as your backdrop, sandboarding in Liwa is an unforgettable experience.

Cultural Immersion

Cultural Immersion

A Liwa Desert Safari offers a deep dive into the UAE’s heritage. Once home to the Bani Yas tribe, ancestors of the ruling families, the Liwa Oasis thrives with vast date plantations sustained by underground freshwater, making it one of the largest palm oases in the Middle East. Exploring historic forts like Mezairaa Fort showcases the region’s defensive architecture and historical significance.

Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter): The Heart of the Liwa Desert Safari

The Rub' al Khali, or Empty Quarter, is the world's largest continuous sand desert, spanning 650,000 square kilometers across the Arabian Peninsula. Known for its golden dunes, some reaching 300 meters, it offers a serene and mesmerizing landscape. The Liwa Oasis on its northern edge serves as a gateway to this vast desert, stretching 1,000 kilometers in length and 500 kilometers in width, covering over a quarter of Saudi Arabia. Elevations vary from 800 meters in the southwest to near sea level in the northeast, with terrain ranging from fine sands to dunes, salt flats and sand sheets. Historically, it was part of ancient trade routes, with sites like Ubar adding to its mystique. The desert also features sabkhas (brackish salt flats) and ancient lake beds, remnants of a wetter past. Visiting the Rub' al Khali reveals its untouched beauty and rich history, captivating travelers for centuries.

Where to Stay in Liwa Desert: Resorts, Hotels & Glamping

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

For an unparalleled luxury experience, the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is an ideal choice. Nestled in the heart of the Rub' al Khali, this resort blends opulence with authentic desert charm, offering world-class amenities. Enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, relax by a palm-fringed pool with stunning dune views and savour exquisite culinary experiences at its diverse restaurants. Qasr Al Sarab seamlessly combines modern luxury with the timeless beauty of the desert, ensuring a memorable stay.
Resort Tilal Liwa Hotel - Madinat Zayed

Resort Tilal Liwa Hotel

The Tilal Liwa Hotel offers comfort, luxury and authentic desert charm without straining your budget. Situated on the edge of the Rub' al Khali, this 4-star gem provides stunning desert views. Guests can unwind in spacious, air-conditioned rooms with traditional Arabesque decor, some featuring furnished balconies. Amenities include an infinity pool, sunbathing terrace and two on-site restaurants serving local and international cuisine. With warm Arabian hospitality and proximity to key attractions, Tilal Liwa Hotel is a convenient base for desert adventures.
Bab Al Nojoum Bateen Liwa

Bab Al Nojoum Bateen Liwa

Bab Al Nojoum Bateen Liwa is a hidden gem in the majestic Liwa desert, where ancient Bedouin traditions blend seamlessly with modern comforts. The retreat offers luxurious rooms adorned with traditional elements, creating an enchanting ambiance. Guests can indulge in Arabian hospitality, savoring local cuisine while being captivated by Bedouin tales and cultural performances under the starry sky. The desert adventure awaits at sunrise, guided by experienced hosts to explore the desert's hidden treasures. Bab Al Nojoum Bateen Liwa is a magical portal to the heart of Arabia, offering a world of wonder and discovery for every guest.
Liwa Nights Bedouin Glamping Retreat

Liwa Nights Bedouin Glamping Retreat

Liwa Nights Bedouin Glamping Retreat blends ancient Bedouin traditions with modern luxury. Set amidst Liwa's golden dunes, this retreat offers luxuriously appointed Bedouin-style tents. Evenings feature savoury Arabian delicacies, enchanting music and stargazing under pristine skies. Activities like camel treks and sandboarding enhance the experience, creating cherished memories of an extraordinary Arabian adventure.

Mid-range Accommodations

The Liwa region also offers mid-range accommodations for travellers seeking comfort and affordability. Exploring local guesthouses or boutique hotels can provide unique cultural experiences. It's advisable to book in advance during peak seasons to secure the best rates.

How to Reach Liwa Desert: Complete Transportation Guide

Self-driving

For the freedom to explore Liwa at your own pace, a self-drive journey is an excellent choice, as the destination is accessible by normal cars. However, if you plan to venture off-road, a standard vehicle won’t suffice. Consult a tour operator or guide to arrange off-roading transportation and pick-up services across the UAE, ensuring a seamless adventure. Planning your journey to Liwa? Below is a guide to estimate travel distances and times to Tal Mor'eb, a stunning Liwa Desert destination. The following details will help you organize your trip efficiently.

Travelling From Distance to Tal Mor'eb Duration
Abu Dhabi (AUH Airport) 242 km 2 h 25 min
Dubai (DXB Airport) 362 km 3 h 30 min
Hatta (Hatta Fort Hotel) 476 km 4 h 40 min
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK Airport) 458 km 4 h 23 min
Sharjah (SHJ Airport) 386 km 3 h 43 min
Ajman (Mall Ajman) 392 km 3 h 51 min
Fujairah (Fujairah Beach) 469 km 4 h 34 min
Al Ain 338 km 3 h 11 min

Public transport

For travellers using public transport, buses run from Abu Dhabi's Central Bus Station near Al Wahda Mall to Liwa's Mezairaa Bus Station. Departures from Abu Dhabi are at 9:20 AM and 9:00 PM, reaching Liwa at 12:49 PM and 12:29 AM. Return buses leave Mezairaa at 5:10 AM and 4:15 PM, arriving in Abu Dhabi at 8:38 AM and 7:43 PM. A one-way ticket costs 30 AED. Schedules may vary, so confirm timings by calling 80088888.

There are no direct buses from Dubai to Liwa. However, you can take a bus to Abu Dhabi and connect to Liwa. Three main routes are operating between Dubai and Abu Dhabi:

  • E100 - Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (Dubai) to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.
  • E101 - Ibn Battuta Bus Station (Dubai) to Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station (Abu Dhabi).
  • E102 - Ibn Battuta Bus Station (Dubai) to Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station (Abu Dhabi).

From Abu Dhabi, take a bus to Mezairaa. Verify schedules via 80088888 or public transport resources. Once at Mezairaa, explore Liwa’s attractions and stunning desert scenery.

Taxi

Seeking a hassle-free journey? Taxis offer a convenient way to reach Liwa from UAE cities, but costs can be high, especially as attractions are far from the bus station. Budget-conscious travellers should consider renting a vehicle or booking a transfer with a local tour operator for a more economical desert experience.

Below are the taxi fares in Liwa for the timings 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM and 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Taxi Fares

Rate Type 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Per Kilometer 1.82 AED 1.82 AED
Flag-fall 5 AED 5.5 AED
Booking 4 AED 5 AED

4x4 Drive with Liwa Desert Safari Operator

A 4x4 drive with a reputable Liwa Desert safari operator offers an exhilarating off-roading experience through the breathtaking dunes of the Empty Quarter. With various safari options, expert guides ensure both safety and excitement as you navigate the terrain. Some operators provide UAE-wide pick-up services, making access easy. These excursions include thrilling activities like dune bashing, camel riding and sandboarding, immersing travellers in the desert’s beauty while offering a rewarding, budget-friendly adventure.

When to Visit Liwa Desert: Seasonal Guide & Weather Tips

Ideal Months

The best time for a Liwa desert safari is October to April, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities. This is peak season, so booking in advance is recommended.

Budget-friendly Options

Hotel and flight prices are higher from October to April, but budget travelers can find better deals in summer, though the heat can be intense. Late April and late September offer a balance of affordability and manageable temperatures. Proper planning ensures a rewarding adventure.

Low-Crowd Tips

To avoid crowds, plan your safari on a weekday. Weekends (Thursday to Saturday) attract both tourists and local residents.

Liwa Desert Festivals: Tel Moreeb, Dates Festival & Cultural Events

Tel Moreeb Festival
Dec 13, 2024 - Jan 4, 2025

Tel Moreeb Festival

The Liwa International Festival, also known as the Tel Moreeb Festival, is an annual event held in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region from December 13, 2024, to January 4, 2025. Renowned for motorsport competitions, including drag racing, freestyle drifting and the iconic Moreeb Hill Climb—a challenge to conquer a 300-meter dune with a 50-degree incline—the festival also offers cultural and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy camel and horse racing, falconry, traditional crafts, live music and dining at Liwa Village, alongside carnival rides and the immersive Night Oasis museum. For the best experience, visit between January 2nd and 4th during the Moreeb Dune Car Championship. This festival blends adrenaline-pumping action with Emirati heritage.

Liwa Dates Festival
Jul 17 - Jul 27

Liwa Dates Festival

Held annually in the Liwa Oasis, this festival celebrates Emirati heritage and the cultivation of date palms. A key highlight is the 'Best Date Fruit' competition, where local farms compete for the title of 'Best Date Grower,' alongside auctions where prices can exceed AED 6,000 per kilo. The festival also features traditional dance, Bedouin crafts and educational sessions for date producers. Over the years, it has grown in prominence, attracting visitors and companies passionate about Emirati culture, solidifying its status as a key event honoring the date palm’s significance.

Al Gharbia Watersports Festival
April 20 - April 30

Al Gharbia Watersports Festival

Held annually in Mirfa, Abu Dhabi, this festival spans 20,000 square meters along the beachfront and features diverse water-based competitions, including dhow sailing, kite surfing, kayaking and swimming. A standout event is the Marawah Dhow Sailing Race, which has grown significantly. Beyond sports, the festival offers a Traditional Market, heritage performances and children’s activities, showcasing Emirati maritime traditions. Organized by the Cultural Programmes and Heritage Festivals Committee – Abu Dhabi, in collaboration with local organizations, the festival promotes Al Gharbia as a marine sports hub while supporting the economy. It has become a premier cultural and sporting event, attracting participants and visitors from across the UAE and beyond.

Liwa Desert Safari FAQs: Everything You Need to Know Before You Book

Prices start from AED 499 per adult for a full-day Liwa safari. If you would like to spend the night in the desert, overnight camping packages are available from AED 649. The self-drive 4x4 adventure is priced at AED 1,499. Hotel pickup from Abu Dhabi is included with all tours, and Dubai pickup can be added to most packages for a small additional fee.

View all tour prices and inclusions →

Absolutely. A Liwa Desert Safari delivers something that a standard city desert tour simply cannot replicate. The dunes here are genuinely enormous, the landscapes are untouched, and the crowds are minimal. You will explore the fringes of the world's largest continuous sand desert, visit working camel farms, and experience Bedouin culture in a setting that feels completely removed from modern life. For travellers who want an authentic desert experience rather than a tourist attraction, Liwa is the clear choice.

For most travellers, yes. Tel Moreeb towers at over 300 metres, making it roughly three times the height of the dunes found near Dubai. Beyond the scale, Liwa offers far fewer tourists, a genuinely pristine Bedouin landscape, and direct access to the Rub' al Khali. A Dubai safari is a solid introduction to desert driving; a Liwa safari is the complete experience.

The Liwa Oasis sits approximately 240 km from Abu Dhabi city centre, and the drive takes around 2.5 hours along well-maintained roads. All our Liwa Desert Safari packages include door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle, so you can relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about navigation or parking.

Yes, and Abu Dhabi is actually the best base from which to do it. Our guided tours depart from Abu Dhabi hotels and travel directly into the Rub' al Khali via the Liwa Oasis, giving you access to one of the most spectacular and least-visited landscapes on the planet. Certain areas of the Empty Quarter require government permits to enter; we handle all permissions on your behalf, including access to restricted zones that independent travellers cannot reach.

Browse our Empty Quarter tours →

Yes. Our full-day and sunset safari packages include hotel pickup from Dubai, though the drive is approximately 3.5 hours each way, so an early start is essential to make the most of your time on the dunes. If you are travelling from Dubai, the overnight package offers considerably better value. Waking up in the middle of the Empty Quarter makes the journey far more rewarding.

Book with Dubai hotel pickup →

Your overnight safari package covers everything you need for a complete desert experience: return hotel transfers, a certified guide, dune bashing at Tel Moreeb, sandboarding, a camel farm visit, a traditional Arabic BBQ dinner, Bedouin-style tented accommodation with full bedding, guided stargazing, and a continental breakfast the following morning.

Not included: alcoholic beverages, personal travel insurance, and gratuities.

See full overnight safari details →

Sandboarding is included in our overnight and full-day packages at no extra cost. Tours also include a visit to a working Majaheem camel farm, where you can observe and learn about these remarkable animals at close range. Specific inclusions vary between tour types, so we recommend reviewing the "What's Included" section on each individual tour page before booking.

Compare what each tour includes →

Every tour on our roster can be arranged as a fully private experience for couples, families, or groups of up to 20 people. Whether you would like a leisurely sunset drive for two, a family-paced day without dune bashing, or a full Empty Quarter expedition with a custom itinerary, we can build it around your needs. Private departures come with a dedicated guide and flexible timing. Rates are typically 30 to 50% above shared tour prices.

Request a private tour quote →

Liwa is a great destination for families when the right tour is selected. Here are the key age guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Dune bashing: Not suitable for children under 5. Children aged 5 to 12 are welcome with parental consent, provided they are secured in a properly fitted seatbelt throughout.
  • Baby seats: Available on request at the time of booking only. Please provide your child's age and weight when you reserve so we can arrange the correct seat.
  • Toddlers and infants: Family-friendly packages with gentler driving are available on request for guests travelling with very young children.

We recommend getting in touch before booking so we can recommend the most suitable tour for your family's needs.

WhatsApp us for family tour advice →

We offer door-to-door pickup from all major hotels across the Corniche, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, and Abu Dhabi city centre. Dubai hotel pickup is available on most tours for a small surcharge. Departure times differ by tour type:

  • Full-day safaris: 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM
  • Sunset safaris: 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
  • Overnight tours: Early morning departure to maximise your time in the desert
  • Dubai pickups: Approximately 90 minutes earlier across all tour types

Your confirmed pickup time and exact meeting point will be included in your booking confirmation email.

Confirm your pickup details via WhatsApp →

Each vehicle accommodates up to 5 passengers, including the driver and guide. All safari vehicles are fully air-conditioned, regularly safety-inspected Toyota Land Cruisers with seatbelts fitted on every seat. Seatbelt use during the dune bashing portion is mandatory for all passengers, and a thorough safety briefing takes place before the off-road section begins. Private tour guests have exclusive use of their vehicle, with additional vehicles provided for larger groups.

Tours run every day of the week, including weekends and public holidays. For most dates, booking at least 48 to 72 hours ahead is sufficient. However, during peak season (October to April) and around the Tel Moreeb Festival, we strongly recommend securing your place two to four weeks in advance, as overnight packages in particular sell out well ahead of schedule.

To confirm your reservation, please have the following ready: your full name, phone number, email address, hotel name and room number, number of guests (adults and children, with ages for any children), your preferred tour date, and details of any special requirements such as dietary restrictions, medical conditions, or accessibility needs. Private and group bookings may require a deposit at the time of reservation.

Alcohol is not permitted at the desert camp, in accordance with UAE law and the customs of the local community. A generous selection of non-alcoholic drinks is provided throughout the evening at no extra charge, including traditional Arabic coffee, fresh fruit juices, and soft drinks.

Overnight guests stay in furnished Bedouin-style tents set within the Empty Quarter dunes. Each tent is equipped with comfortable mattresses, pillows, and full bedding, so there is no need to bring a sleeping bag. Shared toilet facilities are available at all camp locations. Basic shower facilities are provided at most sites, though they are functional rather than hotel-grade. Packing a small supply of wet wipes and your own toiletries is a sensible precaution.

The ideal window for a Liwa Desert Safari is October through to March, when temperatures are comfortable during the day and pleasantly cool after dark. The summer months (May to September) bring intense heat, with temperatures frequently above 45°C, making outdoor activities physically demanding. December and January are the most popular months, combining perfect weather with the annual Tel Moreeb Festival.

Choose loose, lightweight clothing in light colours, ideally made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. If you are joining an overnight tour, bring a warm layer such as a fleece or thick jumper, as temperatures in the desert can drop significantly after sunset. Closed-toe shoes are essential for walking on dune terrain; flip-flops or sandals are not practical. Do not forget sunscreen, a good pair of sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle.

Our cancellation terms are straightforward:

  • Free cancellation up to 48 hours before your departure date, with a full refund.
  • Cancellations within 48 hours of departure are non-refundable.
  • No-shows on the day of the tour are non-refundable.
  • Rescheduling is complimentary if requested more than 48 hours in advance, subject to availability.
  • Cancellation by the operator due to adverse weather or force majeure entitles you to a full refund or a complimentary rebooking.

Refunds are returned to the original payment method within 7 to 10 business days. Different terms apply to group and private bookings.

Read the full cancellation policy →

Explore the Rub' al Khali with Abu Dhabi’s Leading Experts.

Don't leave your bucket-list adventure to chance. With certified guides, premium 4x4s, and permitted access to the deepest parts of the Empty Quarter, we ensure your journey is as safe as it is spectacular.

Secure Your Expert-Led Safari

Last updated: March 07, 2026