From Madinat Zayed
Tours starting from Al Dhafra Resort
Al Dhafra Resort guests have the option to book multiple desert excursions with Rub Alkhali Desert Tours based on exclusivity.
Tour Itineraries
Liwa Dune Adventure (MZ-1)
Duration: 2 hours / 30 km
Timings: 09:00
Tour Highlights: Camel Farms, Dune Drive, Unique flora & fauna, Desert Landscape
Begin your day with an unforgettable journey across the golden dunes surrounding Al Dhafra Resort. Visit a local camel farm and hear fascinating stories of the ancient caravans that once crossed these vast sands.
Your expert guide will reveal the secrets of the desert’s unique flora and fauna as you enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Arabic coffee with dates atop a scenic dune — a perfect spot to gaze over the endless sea of sand and feel the spirit of the Arabian desert.
Liwa Day Adventure (MZ-2)
Duration: 6 hours / 160 km
Timings: 09:00 – 15:00
Depart from Al Dhafra Resort, heading 60 km south toward Mezairaa along scenic tarmac roads. Pass the impressive Shams Solar Power Station (Masdar’s $600M landmark) and enjoy the drive through lush windbreaks that shield the highway from drifting desert sand.
First Stop – Liwa Fort
Explore the historic Liwa Fort, once home to tribal chiefs. This beautifully restored structure offers a glimpse into the region’s proud heritage and makes a perfect photo stop.
Second Stop – Liwa Date Shop
Visit the Liwa Date Factory, where you can sample and purchase premium Emirati dates — a delicious symbol of local culture and hospitality.
Next Stop – Camel Farm
Get up close to the “ships of the desert” at a local camel farm and learn about their vital role in Bedouin life.
Dune Drive – Into the Empty Quarter
Begin your thrilling desert adventure deep into the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter). Traverse sabkha flats, salt lakes, and towering dunes, with opportunities to spot Arabian gazelles along the way.
Moreeb Dune & Sand Adventure
Drive near the majestic Moreeb Dune, one of the tallest in the world, and feel the excitement of Liwa’s famous dune drives across rolling golden terrain.
Picnic Lunch in the Desert
Relax at a secluded desert spot and enjoy a freshly prepared picnic lunch, complete with salads, light bites, mats, shade, and chilled water — the perfect mid-day retreat.
Sand Roses & Singing Sands
Experience the mysterious hum of Liwa’s “singing sands” — a rare natural sound created by shifting dunes — and stop to admire the stunning Desert Sand Roses, delicate gypsum formations shaped by the wind and earth.
Liwa Sunset Adventure + BBQ Dinner (MZ-3)
Duration: 4 hours / 30 km
Timings: 15:30 – 19:30
Tour Highlights: Camel Farm, Dune Drive, Sunset, BBQ Dinner, Starry Night Sky
This captivating experience follows the same route as the Liwa Desert Express (MZ-1) but comes alive under the magic of the setting sun.
As the horizon glows in hues of gold, orange, and crimson, your guide chooses a quiet, secluded dune to set up camp and prepare a live BBQ over an open fire — a delicious spread of grilled meats, fresh salads, fragrant rice, sweet dates, and traditional Arabic tea.
Enjoy this golden hour — the best time for desert photography — as the soft light bathes the dunes and the landscape transforms into a photographer’s dream.
Relax as twilight deepens, stars shimmer above, and the desert falls silent around you.
The night drive back to Al Dhafra Resort completes your adventure — peaceful, scenic, and truly unforgettable.
Included in All Tours
- Private 4×4 vehicle with an English-speaking professional guide
- All tours are conducted on an exclusive vehicle basis (no sharing)
- BBQ Dinner: Includes three types of meat, three types of salad, rice, dates, tea, water, and soft drinks
What to Bring
- Camera, video, or mobile phone
- Light clothing during warm months; jacket or pullover in cooler weather
- Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
- Sandals or light trekking shoes suitable for sand walking
Terms & Conditions
- Excursions operate from September to May each year; other periods available on request and subject to weather conditions
- All rates are inclusive of 5% VAT and applicable service charges
- Bookings must be made at least 48 hours in advance
- Full payment is required upon confirmation
- Once a booking is confirmed and paid, no refunds can be made
- Rub’ Al Khali Desert Tourism LLC reserves the right to cancel or postpone any tour prior to departure in the event of unsuitable weather or unforeseen circumstances