Liwa Desert Safari is a unique opportunity to explore the vast and magnificent Rub al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter.
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Embark on an otherworldly journey that will open your eyes to the beauty that lies in the UAE’s Empty Quarter – the Liwa Desert Safari promises an experience filled with exciting activities, relaxing moments, and breathtaking photo opportunities.
Spend an afternoon tumbling through the dunes with an adrenaline-filled dune bashing excursion, or bask in the ethereal beauty of the moonlit sands on an overnight desert safari experience. Whether you're the type to marvel at a star-filled sky or prefer the wind in your hair at high speeds, your Liwa Desert Safari can be cumstomised to suit your taste in adventure. What awaits you is a memorable experience available nowhere else on the planet – from the haunting elegance of the Milky Way glimpsed from the Liwa Oasis to the heart-racing thrill of conquering the steep slopes in a powerful 4x4, the endless golden dunes promise limitless opportunities to create memories that last a lifetime. Your comfort and safety are assured at all times under the care of traditional Bedouin hospitality, with the opportunity to partake in their ancient customs and sample the delicious dishes of Arab cuisine. Moreover, your entire journey will take place in line with sustainable tourism practices to ensure the pristine landscape is preserved to flourish well into the future. Book your Liwa Desert Safari today and customise an itinerary that meets your expectations with tranquil cultural experiences, sites of incomparable natural beauty, and exciting desert excursions – our expert guides will see to the rest.
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.
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.
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.
Your safety is our priority, with well-maintained vehicles, emergency support and expert briefings for a worry-free adventure.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 |
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:
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.
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.
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 |
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.
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.
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.
To avoid crowds, plan your safari on a weekday. Weekends (Thursday to Saturday) attract both tourists and local residents.
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.
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.
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.
Dressing appropriately for a desert safari ensures both comfort and protection from the extreme conditions of the Liwa Desert.
Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay cool during the day. Loose-fitting pants or slacks are ideal for activities like camel riding and sandboarding. In summer, wear light-coloured clothing for sun protection, while in winter, carry a jacket or sweater for the chilly evenings.
Choose closed sports shoes or boots for better grip and protection, especially when exploring wildlife-prone areas. Flip-flops or slides can be convenient for short walks but may not be ideal for all activities.
A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential to shield yourself from the harsh desert Sun.
By wearing the right attire, you can fully enjoy the adventure while staying safe and comfortable.
Liwa desert safari with children can be safe and enjoyable with proper planning. Many tour operators offer family-friendly packages tailored for young travellers.
Yes, we offer customizable tour options to cater to individual preferences. Our team of experienced tour planners is dedicated to creating personalized vacation experiences, taking into account any special needs or requests you may have.
A Liwa Desert Safari offers the perfect mix of adventure, luxury and culture in the Empty Quarter. From dune bashing on Tel Moreeb to stargazing under pristine skies, it's a journey through breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.
With expert guides, well-maintained vehicles and diverse activities, travellers can explore safely and comfortably. Whether visiting camel farms, historic forts, or enjoying sandboarding, there's something for everyone.
Don't miss out—book your Liwa Desert Safari today for an unforgettable adventure!
Book Your SafariPage last modified on: April 03 2025