Desert safety

Dune bashing safely: what to know and who should skip it

Dune bashing is fun when the driver is skilled and the car is equipped. Here is our drivers' advice, and who we suggest takes a quiet road instead.

Reading time: 2 minutes Written by the السعودية بأختصار guide team

A 4x4 among pale dunes, with footprints in the sand
A 4x4 among pale dunes, with footprints in the sand

Dune bashing, driving up and down the dunes, is the highlight of the evening safari for many guests. Done the right way, it is both fun and safe.

What we do

  • Licensed drivers with years on these dunes
  • Cars checked every morning, and a seat belt for every seat
  • A short safety briefing before we set off, and a radio link to the camp
  • No more than six guests per car
The trip driver at the wheel, the dunes ahead
The driver reads the dunes before every slope

What you do

Keep your seat belt on all the way, hold the side handle and keep your phone in your pocket on the slopes. If you feel uncomfortable, tell the driver straight away; he will slow down or stop.

Who should skip it

We do not recommend it for pregnant guests, anyone with back or neck problems, children under 3, or anyone who should avoid strong jolts for any reason. They are our guests too: we arrange a car that takes a quiet road to the camp, and they enjoy the sunset, dinner and shows in full.

Motion sickness

Sit in the front seat if you can, look at the horizon and avoid a heavy meal before the trip. Ask the driver to keep the pace gentle from the start.

For your safety: These are general tips from our guides. Always follow the driver's and guide's instructions on the trip, and never go into the desert alone without experience. In an emergency call the police on 999 or an ambulance on 997.

Desert tips

Getting ready Reading time: 1 minute

What to wear on a desert trip

Light clothes that protect you from the sun, shoes that suit the sand and a warm layer for the night: a short guide from our team.