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Driving in the desert is a thrilling activity; however, it brings unique difficulties. The extreme climate, erratic weather, and special terrain necessitate proper preparation. It also needs a good grasp of the driving safety rules. This guide is about what you need to prepare for your driving, driving skills, and safety tips. So, you can experience a secure and unforgettable trip to the desert.
Off-Roading Course
Before you hit the off-road trails in UAE, proper training is very important to ensure safety. To take part in such activities, individuals are strongly advised to sign up for an off-roading course. Not only do these courses familiarize you with the problems of desert driving. But they also make you self-assured to take on really tricky surfaces.
Countless certified institutions are offering off-roading courses. These training programs provide the necessary skills to ride on different grounds like mud, sand, and gravel. The overall cost of these courses would be at least AED 1,500 for just basic training up. It can be AED 9,000 for more detailed courses.
Preparations Before Diving into the Desert
- Car Inspection
Before entering the desert, you must check if your vehicle is in excellent condition. Confirm that the tires are fine and properly inflated. Check the battery, brakes, fluids, and air filters to see if they need to be replaced. - Emergency Kit
Bring along an emergency kit filled with essentials like enough water and non-perishable snacks. Get along a first-aid kit, a flashlight, extra batteries and necessary medications. You have to carry an essential tool: a shovel, tire pressure gauge, and a spare tire. - Navigation and Communication Tools
Have a backup GPS and your cell phone charged as you carry a power bank. Plan for a physical map as a backup. Also, tell someone about your trip and expected return time.
Desert Driving Issues
- Visibility Maintenance
Dust storms and bright sunlight make visibility a challenge. Maintaining a clean windshield, wearing sunglasses, and switching on headlights will all enhance visibility. - Handling Sand and Dunes
First, to drive on sand, you have to decrease the tire pressure. When you approach the dune, make it direct by stopping and not turning sharp. Keep the speed steady, and use the mechanism of movement to navigate rightly. - Extreme Weather Situation
In addition to the temperature extremities of the desert, extra care is required. Like in scorching heat during the day and freezing cold at night. Water, good dressing, and your car’s climate control system will keep you comfortable.
Things to Maintain in the Desert!
- Hydration and Nutrition
In the harsh desert environment, keeping yourself well-hydrated is the sole key. Keep drinking water frequently and avoid the consumption of caffeine and alcohol. As they will cause the body to dehydrate. Pack naturally energizing snacks to remain nourished and maintain your energy. - Knowing the Time to Rest
Frequent breaks are important, especially when making long-speed runs. Resting without distraction and stretching without aching just preserves your mind’s attention. It helps your brain stay alert. - Wildlife Noticing
Awareness of wildlife will help you, especially in dawn and dusk periods of animals’ life. Be careful while driving, and remember that animals need space to avoid accidents. - Driving in the Desert at Night
When driving at night in the desert, you must be more alert. Lower your speed, use high beams as needed and watch out for the wildlife crossing the road.
Common Problems & their Solutions in Desert
What To Do When You Are Stuck?
Should you happen to get stuck in the sand, do not give in to the temptation of spinning your wheels. This will only make things worse. Take a shovel and dig the sand away from the tires. Then place traction mats or a spare tire to make a solid path for the vehicle to move forward.
How to Signal for Help?
Put on your hazards, go ahead and set up the flares, if you have one. Make use of reflective materials like a mirror or a whistle to try and signal assistance.
Survival Tips Until Help Arrives:
Stay in your vehicle it is usually more visible to rescuers than you walking. Use water sparingly, take shade as a heat exposure, and while you wait be patient and think of help.
Best Cars for Desert Safari in UAE
The selection of the right vehicle is crucial for safe and enjoyable desert driving. Deserts are among the most complex driving environments. So, the cars must have high ground clearance, strong engines, excessive off-roading technology, and durable suspension. Therefore, we have pulled together a select list of cars best for desert driving. You can hire a car in Dubai for a better experience.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Land Cruiser is placed at the top of the desert SUV hierarchy. Renting a car in Dubai boasts extreme durability, high ground clearance, and advanced off-roading capabilities.
Safety Features: Crawl control, terrain response system, and incredible traction control.
Nissan Patrol
A favorite among the desert enthusiasts in the Middle East, this model brings high levels of luxury, muscle, and reliability.
Safety Features: Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC) and multiple terrain modes.
Jeep Wrangler
A truly capable 4×4 has a rugged yet stylish design and is suitable for sand dunes.
Safety Features: Removable doors, skid plates, and high axle articulation.
Ford F-150 Raptor
A super-fast pick-up truck comes with great off-roading performance and heavy-duty suspension.
Safety Features: Fox Racing shocks, long-travel suspension, and terrain management system.
Mitsubishi Pajero
A cost-effective SUV with reliable off-roading capabilities and functionalities.
Safety Features: Super Select 4WD system and adjustable ride height.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G-Wagon)
With iconic fashion and durable off-road abilities this luxury SUV is a powerful vehicle.
Safety Features: Three differential locks, permanent 4WD, and good ground clearance.
Land Rover Defender
With its reputation as an off-roader, the Defender is a combination of cutting-edge technology and ruggedness.
Safety Features: All-Terrain Progress Control and adjustable air suspension.
Lexus LX Series
This SUV entails luxury combined with off-road capabilities and is perfect for the comfort level: it takes you to the desert and back.
Safety Features: Crawl control and multi-terrain select system.
Key Features for the Desert Vehicle
- High Ground Clearance: It keeps the underside of the vehicle from hitting the sand dunes.
- 4WD and AWD Systems: They will give you better traction and handling on sandy terrain.
- Durable Tires: Off-road or all-terrain tires with deflation capability for better grip.
- Powerful Engine: It will be the torque that is needed to drive up the steep dunes.
- Suspension System: It should handle the rough terrain in a smooth way.
The right vehicle choice and thorough preparation are enough to deal with the desert’s uncommon challenges, and your drive will be exciting!
Final Words
Desert driving can be an extraordinary journey only if it is presented with the right approach and careful arrangement. The vehicle’s readiness, carrying essentials and following tips will enable you to battle the tough desert. This leaves you the opportunity to relish its beauty.
Must Read to make your Desert Trip more Amazing & Fun:
