Listly by Raphael Fitzherbert
Be it high dunes or long sand valleys, Abu Dhabi is an awe-inspiring desert. It awaits you with many activities, which are adrenaline-filled. Settle yourself in a Sir Bani Yas Hotel and breathe in the adventure.
In Abu Dhabi sand skiing is completely a different experience. Reach Liwa Oasis and feel the utmost bliss of sand skiing. Take your sand board and glide along the red sand slopes. It sure gives you an exciting experience. Recommended for a novice is skiing along gentle slopes. That could be a good starting point to master sand skiing.During the daytime, the desert's temperature will be high. Better reach the dunes in the wee hours. You will need to be dressed comfortably and lightly. A sunglass and a hat are required to keep off sun. You need to apply a lot of sunscreen.
This activity is quite popular in the Arab region. However, you require some expertise as it involves driving off-road – in mud and over hills. Dune bashing lets you imbibe in the magnificent stretch outside Liwa Oasis. The activity is guaranteed to keep you out of boredom as the dunes are high and sand valleys are long.
Ever tried riding a bike on sand dunes? Possibly no! Get yourself to register with Dune Buggy Tour to thrill yourself. Those quad bikes are the ultimate choice for you, apparently under strict observance for protection. This quad bike journey is very much popular among tourists. You can also grab some refreshment on the way back to the camp.
Camels could be quite a strange sight for you, but not for the Arabs. This resourceful animal is part and parcel of Arab culture. Head to Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara and ride on a camel to breathe in the mystic charm of the desert. It will be a welcome change from a four-wheel drive to ride on a camel, as it offers irreplaceable view of desert sunset.
Shisha cafes are a common sight in Abu Dhabi, as smoking shisha tobacco is a national hobby. Wherever you take a stroll, a Shisha cafe is guaranteed to be in view. Both natives and expatriates gather in these cafes for various functions. They would just give a cold shoulder to health warnings against tobacco, and give in to temptation. The government, however, is working on imposing strict laws on how the cafes should run. Apart from serving shisha tobacco, these cafes also offer hot beverages such as tea and coffee in addition to snacks.
This walk is the ideal opportunit to breathe in the scenic beauty of the desert. Virgin sand dunes, ancient fossils, animals and rock corridors are a treat in this walk. Walks are organized by groups, seven people each. The walks however depend largely on weather conditions. You will require items such as hiking shoes, camera, hat and sunglasses. The walk will approximately take one-and-half hour.