Sand Sherpa doesn’t “dune bash”!

Learn why Sand Sherpa prioritises conservation over thrills in Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

When it comes to exploring the natural wilderness of the UAE, many immediately think of thrilling dune bashing adventures. At Sand Sherpa, however, our approach is very different.

Operating within Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR), the first national park in the UAE, we are privileged to experience the desert’s beauty in its most naturally pristine state. This protected wilderness is home to a variety of wildlife, including gazelles, Arabian oryx, desert foxes and countless migratory birds. In fact, due to the efforts of the DDCR, the Arabian oryx has become the only species in the world to go from Extinct in the Wild to Vulnerable, making it a remarkable conservation success story.

More than just sand and rocks, the world’s deserts are delicate, living environments that have survived for centuries, and all desert flora and fauna have adapted to thrive in this environment. Many animals live in sand burrows, use the dunes as part of their natural habitat or even lay eggs beneath the sand. Every plant, dune and burrow plays a role in keeping the ecosystem balanced and these are exactly the elements most at risk from dune bashing.

Driving over these habitats without consideration disrupts delicate ecosystems in multiple ways. It disturbs resting and burrowing animals, erodes dunes, destroys plant life and contributes to long-term degradation. Such activity can forcibly displace wildlife.

Our philosophy is simple: exploration should never come at the expense of nature. That’s why we focus on immersive, low-impact adventures. Guests enjoy scenic drives in specially adapted ex-military vehicles, guided walks, wildlife tracking and camp experiences that allow them to connect with nature, all without harming the environment or its inhabitants. From the quiet moments of spotting a gazelle at dusk to the soft sounds of desert birds at sunrise, our experiences are designed to celebrate the desert in its natural rhythm.

Choosing Sand Sherpa means experiencing the desert as it is meant to be: peaceful, protected and alive with wildlife. Our team of Sherpa guides ensures that every adventure is not only safe and comfortable but also respectful of the land we are privileged to operate in. We also believe in leaving a positive footprint: a portion of every adventure goes directly to supporting the efforts of the DDCR.

By choosing experiences that protect the environment, our guests become part of a community that values the desert’s unique biodiversity and cultural heritage. So while we don’t offer dune bashing, we promise an experience that is unique, unforgettable and completely in harmony with nature – one that lets you appreciate the desert’s true beauty without disturbing the life that calls it home.