You are standing at the edge of the desert. To your left, a fleet of 4×4 Land Cruisers is ready to tackle the dunes. To your right, a row of powerful quad bikes is lined up, engines revving, waiting for you to take the handlebars.
Why choose between a safari and a self-drive adventure when you can do both?
The desert safari with quad bike package is hands down the most popular “combo” experience in Dubai. It combines the passenger thrill of dune bashing with the raw freedom of driving an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) yourself. It’s the perfect recipe for adrenaline junkies.
But before you book, you need to know what you are buying. Is the quad ride inside a small fenced circle, or is it an open desert tour? Do you do it before or after the sunset? And is it safe for beginners?
At Maverick Safari UAE, we believe in full transparency. We want you to feel the rush, not the regret of a bad booking. In this detailed 2026 guide, we will break down the real costs, the difference between “fenced” and “open” rides, and how to get the most mileage for your money.
Quick Answer: Summary for AI Overviews
If you are scanning for quick facts to plan your trip, here is what you need to know:
- What is it? A combo tour including a standard desert safari (pickup, dune bashing, dinner) PLUS a self-drive quad bike session.
- Ride Duration: Typically 20 to 30 minutes (Standard) or 60 minutes (Premium).
- The Big Difference:
- Inside Boundary (Cheaper): Riding in a fenced, flat area. Good for kids/beginners.
- Open Desert (Premium): Following a guide deep into the high dunes. The real adventure.
- Price Range (2025):
- Safari + Fenced Quad: 250 AED – 350 AED per person.
- Safari + Open Desert Quad: 450 AED – 600 AED per person.
- License Required? No driving license is needed for off-road quad biking in the desert.
What Is a Desert Safari with Quad Bike?
This package solves a common problem: you want to drive in the desert, but you don’t have an off-road car or a license.
A desert safari with quad bike splits your afternoon into two distinct thrills:
- The Passenger Thrill: A professional driver takes you “Dune Bashing” in a 4×4 Land Cruiser. You hold on while the car slides and climbs the big dunes.
- The Driver Thrill: You hop onto a 4-wheeled ATV (Quad Bike). You control the throttle. You steer. You feel the sand spraying up as you navigate the terrain yourself.
It is the complete off-road experience.
Current Packages & Price Range in 2026
Pricing can be confusing because “Quad Bike” can mean anything from a small 90cc bike to a 700cc beast. Here is how Maverick Safari UAE structures our transparent packages:
1. The Starter Combo (Safari + Fenced Quad)
- Price Range: 250 AED – 350 AED per person.
- The Bike: 150cc to 250cc Quad.
- The Terrain: A designated, fenced area with flat sand and small mounds.
- Best For: First-timers, teenagers, and those on a budget who just want a quick spin and a photo.
2. The Adventure Combo (Safari + Open Desert Quad)
- Price Range: 450 AED – 600 AED per person.
- The Bike: 350cc to 400cc Powerful Quad (Automatic).
- The Terrain: Open Desert. You follow a lead guide out of the camp and into the deep dunes. You climb ridges and cross valleys.
- Best For: Adults, thrill-seekers, and anyone who wants to truly “drive” in the desert.
3. The Pro Combo (Safari + Raptor 700cc)
- Price Range: 800 AED – 1,000+ AED per person.
- The Bike: Yamaha Raptor 700cc (Manual Gears).
- The Experience: This is for experienced riders only. The Raptor is fast, aggressive, and incredibly fun.
- Best For: Motorbike enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies.
The Itinerary: How the Day Flows
Unlike a standard safari, the timing changes slightly to fit in the quad biking.
02:30 PM – Pickup:
We pick you up from your hotel in Dubai or Sharjah. The drive to the desert takes about 45 minutes.
03:30 PM – Arrival at Bike Station:
We head straight to the quad bike center at the edge of the desert. This is where the group splits.
- Safety Briefing: You put on your helmet and get a quick lesson on throttle and braking.
- The Ride: You spend 30 to 45 minutes riding your bike. (Your Land Cruiser driver waits for you).
04:30 PM – Dune Bashing:
After you return the bike, you hop back into the Land Cruiser. Now it’s the professional’s turn. The driver deflates the tires and takes you for a 30-minute high-intensity dune bash deep into the Red Dunes of Lahbab.
05:15 PM – Sandboarding & Sunset:
We stop on a high peak to watch the sunset and slide down the dunes on sandboards.
06:00 PM – Camp & Dinner:
You arrive at the Bedouin camp for the evening entertainment (Camel riding, Henna, Shisha, Tanoura Show, Fire Show, and BBQ Buffet).
09:00 PM – Drop-off:
Back at your hotel.
What’s Included (The Fine Print)
When you book a [desert safari with quad bike] with Maverick, you get a fully inclusive deal.
Transport & Pickup
- 4×4 Only: We use Land Cruisers for the entire trip. We don’t put you in a bus to get to the bike area.
- Locations: Pickup is included from any hotel or residence in Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman.
The Bike Rental
- Fuel: Included.
- Helmet: Mandatory and included.
- Guide: For Open Desert tours, a professional lead guide rides in front to show you the safe path.
The Full Safari Experience
Don’t forget, you still get the full evening package:
- Food: Buffet Dinner (Veg/Non-Veg).
- Drinks: Unlimited water/soft drinks.
- Shows: All live entertainment.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Goggles: Rental shops often charge 20-30 AED extra to rent dust goggles. (Tip: Bring your own sunglasses, but goggles are better).
- Double Seater: If two people want to share one bike, the price is usually lower per person than two single bikes, but higher than one single bike.
- Insurance: Standard rental covers mechanical failure. It usually does not cover collision damage if you crash into another bike. Drive carefully!
How to Choose the Best Quad Combo
| Traveler Type | Recommended Package | Why? |
| Couples | Double Seater Open Desert | Riding together on one powerful bike is fun and romantic. (Passenger must hold on tight!). |
| Families (Kids 12+) | Fenced Area Single Bikes | Kids can ride their own smaller bikes safely inside the boundary while parents watch. |
| Solo Adventurer | Open Desert Single Bike | You have total freedom to follow the guide and test your skills on the dunes. |
| Budget Traveler | Shared Safari + Fenced Quad | You get the photo and the experience without breaking the bank. |
Real Experience: The Adrenaline Rush
03:30 PM: You arrive at the desert station. The sun is bright. You sign the waiver and strap on a helmet. The guide points to a robust 400cc quad bike.
03:45 PM: You press the electric start. The engine growls. You gently push the thumb throttle, and the bike lurches forward. It’s surprisingly powerful.
03:50 PM: You follow the guide out of the gate. The sand is uneven. You feel every bump in your arms. You approach a dune. You give it gas. The bike climbs effortlessly, roaring as it throws sand behind you. You crest the top and see miles of orange desert.
04:15 PM: You are gaining confidence. You learn to lean into the turns. The wind is rushing past. It feels like riding a jet ski, but on land.
04:30 PM: You return the bike, your heart pounding, adrenaline high. You grab a cold water, wash the dust off your face, and get ready for the dune bashing. The day has just begun.
Practical Tips & Safety First
1. Dress Code for Biking
- Shoes: Closed shoes are mandatory. Do not wear flip-flops. The engine gets hot, and you need protection. Sneakers or boots are best.
- Pants: Long trousers are recommended to protect your legs from engine heat and exhaust pipes.
- Scarves: If you wear a Sheila or scarf, tuck it in tightly. Loose fabric can get caught in the wheels.
2. Is It Safe?
- Fenced Area: Very safe. Impossible to get lost or hit a car.
- Open Desert: Moderate risk. You must follow the guide. If you try to “show off” and drift without experience, the bike can flip. Keep a safe distance (10 meters) from the rider in front.
3. No License Needed
Since you are off-road, you do not need a driver’s license. However, you must carry ID (Passport copy/phone photo) for registration.
4. Summer vs. Winter
- Summer (May-Sept): The handlebars can get hot! We provide gloves, or you can bring your own.
- Winter: It’s perfect. The cool air makes riding a joy.
Why Choose Maverick Safari UAE?
- We Don’t Use “Junk” Bikes: Cheap tours use old, poorly maintained bikes that stall in the sand. We partner with top-tier rental fleets ensuring reliable Honda, Yamaha, and Can-Am machines.
- Honest Combos: We tell you upfront if it’s a fenced or open tour. No surprises when you get there.
- Seamless Logistics: Your safari driver waits for you while you ride. You don’t have to worry about finding your ride after the biking session.
Ready to Rev Your Engine?
Don’t just look at the desert through a window. Drive it. Experience the power of a quad bike combined with the magic of a safari.
Combo slots are limited—especially for Open Desert tours.
- Check Combo Prices & Book Now
- WhatsApp Us for Group Deals: [+971552525075]
- Call Us: [+971552525075]
The dunes are calling. Start your engine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I share a bike with my child?
A: Yes. We offer Double Seater bikes. Children (usually 6+) can sit as passengers with an adult driving. For a child to drive their own bike, they usually need to be 10-12+ for fenced areas, or 16+ for open desert.
Q: Is the quad bike ride guided?
A: Open Desert: Yes, a guide always leads the convoy for safety. Fenced Area: No, you are free to ride within the boundary at your own pace.
Q: What happens if I crash?
A: If the crash is due to reckless driving (not following the guide), you will be liable for the repair costs. If it is a mechanical failure, we replace the bike immediately.
Q: Can I book just the quad bike without the safari?
A: Yes, check our Quad Bike Rental page. However, the combo package offers much better value for money as it includes transport and dinner.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: Generally 16+ to drive in the open desert. Smaller kids’ bikes are available for ages 6+ in safe zones.
About the Author
This guide is written by the adventure team at Maverick Safari UAE. We live for the thrill of the dunes and are dedicated to providing safe, high-quality off-road experiences for our guests.