The Liwa region lies in the far south-west of the emirate, a long drive from the city, on the northern fringe of the Rub al Khali, the Empty Quarter, one of the largest sand deserts on earth. Here the dunes grow far higher than the ones near Abu Dhabi, rolling away in enormous orange and red waves, with palm-fringed oases tucked between them. A full-day Liwa safari is the way to see this landscape properly, and it is a very different experience from the short evening safaris that leave from the capital. The tour drives out in the morning, usually with a stop or two along the way, then spends the afternoon in the dunes, with 4x4 driving, photo stops and the chance to take in the silence. It finishes with a sunset over the sand and an oasis dinner or picnic, before the long drive back after dark. It suits travellers who have already done a short safari and want something grander, photographers who want the big sweeping dunes, and anyone who enjoys the sense of distance. Pickups, meals and activities vary by operator, so check exactly what is included when you book.
How it works
You are collected from your hotel in the morning, usually in a comfortable 4x4, and driven south on fast desert highways. The journey to Liwa takes a couple of hours each way, so the tour is a long day, and the comfort of the vehicle matters.
What to expect
After the drive, the programme usually includes time in the dunes with 4x4 driving, stops at viewpoints and a sunset session, followed by a meal or picnic at an oasis. The scale of the dunes is the main attraction, and the quiet away from city noise is striking. Some operators add camel encounters or short dune walks. Facilities are simple, so expect a basic camp or roadside stop rather than a resort.
Making the most of it
Wear layers, since mornings and evenings can be cool in winter and the desert cools quickly after sunset. Bring sunglasses, a scarf for the wind, a camera with plenty of storage and snacks for the long drive. Travel-sickness tablets are worth packing if you are sensitive to motion, as dune driving and long roads can be bumpy.
Good to know
This is an outing for the cooler months, as Liwa in summer is extremely hot. Children are welcome on many tours, but very small ones may find the journey long. Return times are usually late evening. Pickup points, language options and meal choices vary, so check when you book, and if you want a more private or overnight experience, ask about camping options at Liwa.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day guided drive to the Liwa dunes by 4x4, with dune driving, viewpoints, a sunset and a picnic or dinner at an oasis.
Best time
The cooler months, when the long day in the desert is comfortable.
How long
A long day, usually ten to twelve hours including the drive each way.
Tips
Wear layers, bring a scarf and sunglasses, pack snacks and travel-sickness tablets and check what meals are included.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want the biggest dunes and a real sense of the Empty Quarter.
- Families
- Fine for older children who cope with a long day, but a lot for toddlers.
- Couples
- A sunset over enormous dunes and an oasis dinner make it a memorable day.
- Pair with
- A quiet day afterwards, or an overnight stay in a desert camp.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How far is Liwa from Abu Dhabi?+
It is a couple of hours each way by road, which is why the tour is a full day.
Is it very different from the evening safaris near the city?+
Yes. The dunes are far higher and the setting is much quieter, though the day is longer and the facilities simpler.
What should I wear?+
Layers, closed shoes, sunglasses and a scarf. The desert cools quickly after sunset in winter.
Is it suitable for children?+
Many tours welcome children, but the long drive and bumpy dune driving can be tiring for very young ones.
When is the best time to go?+
The cooler months. Liwa in summer is extremely hot, so most operators focus on the winter season.
