City to Desert: Dubai to Liwa
United Arab Emirates
From the hypermodern towers of Dubai across the Abu Dhabi desert to the Liwa Oasis on the edge of the Empty Quarter, the largest uninterrupted sand desert on Earth. The Moreeb Dune (300m, one of the world's highest natural dunes), the ancient falaj irrigation system of the oasis, and the vast silence of the Rub' al Khali beyond the date palms are the rewards.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Dubai
The Burj Khalifa, gold souqs of Deira, and wind-tower houses of Al Fahidi frame a city built in a generation. Head south-west toward Abu Dhabi.
- Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque fits 40,000 worshippers under white marble domes. The Louvre Abu Dhabi sits beneath Jean Nouvel's rain-of-light dome.
- Madinat Zayed
The regional hub of the Al Dhafra desert district, where camel markets and date farms mark the transition from coastal city to Empty Quarter frontier.
- Moreeb Dune
One of the world's tallest natural sand dunes at roughly 300m. The annual Moreeb Hill Climb sends dune buggies straight up its near-vertical face.
- Liwa Oasis
A 100 km crescent of date palms on the Empty Quarter's northern edge. Ancient falaj irrigation channels thread between the groves in eerie silence.
Where to Eat
- Al Fanar Restaurant & CaféEmirati
Experience traditional Emirati cuisine in a setting reminiscent of 1960s Dubai.
- Al Dhafra RestaurantSeafood
Enjoy fresh seafood with views of the Arabian Gulf in a traditional setting.
- Al Liwan RestaurantMiddle Eastern
Savor Middle Eastern dishes in a cozy atmosphere within the Liwa Hotel.
- Al Falaj RestaurantInternational
Dine on a variety of international cuisines overlooking the desert landscape.
Things to Do
- Sheikh Zayed Grand MosqueLandmark
Marvel at the architectural grandeur of one of the world's largest mosques.
- Louvre Abu DhabiMuseum
Explore art and artifacts from around the world in this iconic museum.
- Qasr Al WatanLandmark
Discover the opulent presidential palace showcasing Arabian heritage.
- Liwa FortHistoric Site
Visit this historic fort offering insights into the region's past.
Travel advisory
Reaching the Moreeb Dune and exploring the edges of the Empty Quarter near Liwa requires a high-clearance AWD vehicle and experience with sand driving. Deflate tyres before entering soft dunes and carry recovery boards, extra water, and a satellite phone. Stick to established tracks and avoid venturing into open desert alone.