Top Cars Used for Desert Safari in Dubai

Expert Picks for Desert Safari Cars in Dubai 2025

Taking a desert safari in Dubai is an experience of a lifetime. On this stunning and adventurous journey, you get to witness the expansive deserts of western Asia, a visit to Lahbab to encounter "Big Red" (the tallest sand dune in Dubai), and so much more.

But here is the thing no one puts on the glossy travel brochures: soft sand and rough terrain are no joke. Your average four-wheeler won’t cut it. You need something built for the journey something sturdy, off-road capable, and preferably with a little muscle.

Luckily, Dubai has options. So, before you set off on your grand Dubai adventure, let’s talk about the best wheels for the job.

Top 5 Cars for Desert Safari Dubai

Not all cars are up for the job. You need something that can tackle rugged terrain, keep you comfortable, and maybe even make you feel a little invincible.

Here are five top picks to make your Dubai safari trip one to remember:

Nissan Patrol

This is one of the top models for SUV rental in Dubai, offering rugged durability and luxurious features. With its strong engine and advanced 4x4 features, it ensures a thrilling dune-bashing experience. Rent a Nissan Patrol for your adventure and conquer Dubai’s desert. To rent this vehicle in Dubai, you have to pay 700 AED per day, as per the sources.

Technical Details

• Engine: 5.6l V8
• Power: 400 hp
• Torque: 560 Nm
• Ground Clearance: 272 mm
• Transmission: 7 -speed automatic
• Towing Capacity: 3,500 kg (when the trailer is braked) and 750 kg (when the trailer is not braked)

Advantages

• Comfortable and spacious interior with a seating capacity of 7.
• Intelligent Cruise Control mirrors advanced safety features.
• Satellite Navigation with 3D mapping.

Disadvantages

• Requires higher fuel consumption.
• Its larger size can be challenging when it comes to parking situations.

Mitsubishi Pajero

Experience the thrill of Dubai’s desert with a Mitsubishi Pajero rental! This powerful 4x4 SUV is perfect for dune bashing, offering excellent off-road capabilities, reliability, and comfort at an affordable rate of 190 AED per day.. With a sturdy build and advanced features, the Pajero ensures a smooth and adventurous ride through the stunning desert landscapes.

Technical Details

• Engine: 2.4l
• Power: 400 hp
• Torque: 255 Nm
• Ground Clearance: 215 mm
• Transmission: 8 -speed automatic
• Towing Capacity: 3,000 kg

Advantages

• Strong off-road capability with a comfortable space of 7 seats.
• Satellite navigation with 7 airbags facility to ensure safety.
• Advanced Infotainment systems.

Disadvantages

• Requires high maintenance cost.
• Its clunky rear seats may spoil your Dubai safari journey.

Renault Duster

The Renault Duster car, with its desert-friendly feature,s delivers a comfortable driving experience for you to enjoy the modern streets of Dubai. You can get this car from Renault Duster rentals at 120 AED per day.

Technical Details

• Engine: 1.2l
• Power: 153 hp
• Torque: 204 Nm
• Ground Clearance: 217 mm
• Transmission: Manual
• Towing Capacity: 1,500 kg

Advantages

• Comfortable sitting and driving experience with fabric seats.
• Provide unmatchable safety with front and rear airbags.
• Features cruise control and ABS for enhanced safety.

Disadvantages

• You may encounter issues like engine performance, fuel economy, and gearbox.
• Lack modern features such as wireless charging, keyless entry, etc.

Ford Ecosport

This compact SUV is quite a good choice for exploring Dubai’s sandy paths due to its compatible features. You have to pay around 180 AED per day to rent a Ford Ecosport in Dubai.

Technical Details

• Engine: 1.5l
• Power: 122 hp
• Torque: 150 Nm
• Ground Clearance: 200 mm
• Transmission: 6 -speed automated gear box
• Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs

Advantages

• Features large grill, extended wheel arches, and angular lines to aid driveability.
• Comfortable sitting experience with 5 spacious seats.
• Adjustable Speed Limiter Device with cruise control.

Disadvantages

• Restrictive boot lid can be challenging in tight parking spaces.
• Tight rear seat may limits your passenger sitting capacity.

Chevrolet Groove

This American automaker offers one of the most affordable rentals for exploring Dubai’s thrilling sand dunes, with two trims available: LT and Premier. The Chevrolet Groove combines top-tier safety and technology, available to rent for 99 AED per day plus 5% VAT, with a refundable security deposit after 30 days. Rent a Chevrolet Groove for your Dubai desert adventure!

Technical Details

• Engine: 1.5l
• Power: 110 hp
• Torque: 147 Nm
• Ground Clearance: 160 mm
• Transmission: 6 -speed automatic
• Towing Capacity: NA

Advantages

• Features bold front grille, LED headlights, fog lights, and daytime running lights for enhanced visibility on sandy terrains.
• Comfortable driving experience with breathable cloth fabric, and a multifunctional steering wheel.
• Powering entertainment features with a 6-speaker sound system, an 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, AUX, and USB ports, plus Apple and Android CarPlay.

Disadvantages

• Comparatively lower interior quality due to the presence of too many plastic parts.
• Lower engine performance compared to other SUVs.

Choosing the Right Car for Desert Safari in Dubai

Experiencing a trip on a desert safari in Dubai is the most memorable day of your life. But, if you're not well prepared for the challenges of a Dubai trip, like dealing with soft sand and tough terrain, you're going to miss many surreal experiences. Considering one of the cars from the aforementioned sections can help you face this unwanted challenge.

Consider Gulf Oasis Rent A Car, where you can find the perfect rental cars to match your adventure and ensure a smooth and exhilarating desert safari experience.