If you’ve ever felt drawn to the stillness of the desert or wanted to see what it’s like to stand in a place that feels completely untouched – Liwa might just be calling your name. Set along the edge of the Rub’ al Khali (also known as the Empty Quarter), this part of Abu Dhabi is as wild as it gets. And the best part? It’s not just scenery. There’s a whole world of adventure waiting.
Whether you’re looking for a rush of adrenaline or just a quiet moment under the stars, here are five desert adventures in Liwa that are totally worth the drive.
1. Dune Bashing: The Classic Kickstart
This one’s the ultimate crowd favorite. Dune bashing in Liwa isn’t just a joyride – it’s a full-body experience. You’re in a 4×4, cruising up steep dunes and flying down the other side like it’s a rollercoaster built by nature. The drivers? Pros. They know exactly how to make your stomach drop (in a good way).
If you’re serious about trying the best desert adventures in Liwa, don’t skip this. Try to go around golden hour – the dunes practically glow and the sky? Unreal.
2. Sandboarding: Yes, Like Snowboarding – But Hotter
If balance is your thing, or you just like a bit of a challenge, sandboarding is a solid pick. Imagine hiking up a dune with a board under your arm, catching your breath, and then gliding down like you’ve done this your whole life.
The slopes in Liwa are no joke – some dunes here are among the tallest in the UAE. It’s easily one of the more unique desert adventures in Abu Dhabi, and you don’t need to be an expert. Just some patience, a little courage, and ideally…a soft landing.
3. Camel Trekking at Sunset
There’s a calm that hits different when you’re riding a camel through open desert, especially as the sun dips and the heat eases up. It’s slow, it’s quiet, and honestly, kind of meditative.
This isn’t about thrill—it’s about taking it all in. The colors, the wind, even the occasional silence. Among all the desert adventures in Liwa, this is the one where you might actually forget to look at your phone.
4. Overnight Camping under the Stars
Spend a night in the desert and you’ll see the sky like never before. No buildings, no noise, just stars. Lots of them. Most desert camps in Liwa are well set up with comfortable tents, cushions, local food, and fire pits. And the nights get surprisingly chilly—so pack a hoodie.
If you’re into photography or just want to feel completely off-grid, this might be your favorite of all the desert adventures in Abu Dhabi. It’s not luxurious in the traditional sense, but somehow it feels richer than most five-star stays.
5. Desert Fat Biking or Horseback Riding
Want something different? Fat bikes—those bulky-tire bikes made for sand—are a thing here. You can rent one and head out over the dunes at your own pace. It’s a workout, sure, but the views make it worth the sweat.
Alternatively, go old-school and ride an Arabian horse across the open plains. There’s something timeless about it. It’s less about speed and more about connection—with the land, the horse, and the moment. Either way, it’s a different side of the desert you don’t get from the backseat of a 4×4.
Where to Stay
Now, after all that sand and sun, you’ll want a proper place to crash. A solid Desert Hotel in Abu Dhabi can make all the difference. Imagine waking up with dune views right outside your window, then heading to a breakfast spread before your next excursion.
For comfort, service, and desert access, the Best resort in Abu Dhabi has you covered. And if you’re balancing budget with quality, a 4-Star Hotel in Abu Dhabi nearby will still give you top-notch amenities—without going overboard.
There’s no single way to experience the desert. Some people chase thrills, others come for the quiet. But either way, the desert adventures in Liwa hit differently. They’re not just about action—they’re about disconnecting from noise, from city rush, and reconnecting with something real.
If your idea of a good weekend includes golden sand, dramatic skies, and stories worth telling, then these desert adventures in Abu Dhabi are your perfect excuse to pack a bag and go.
Ready for a desert escape? Book your stay at Western Hotel Liwa now and turn your adventure dreams into reality!
