Big Red (also known as Al Hamar) is a massive 300ft high sand dune (with sides the steepness of a black ski run), its red colour comes from it’s high iron oxide content. Located 25 minutes along the Hatta Road, heading south from Dubai, just follow signs for Hatta from anywhere in Dubai.
Avoid Big Red on Fridays and public holidays, as the dunes become dangerously crowded with Emirati riders bent on terrifying charges to the top and the access roads may well be jammed. During these busy times, a local tour guide will be able to take you to some less busy dunes.
Quad Bike and 4×4 Hire
At Big Red you can hire a quad bike from a fenced off area nearby. It will cost you just over five pounds (over ten US dollars) for half an hour, but don’t accept the price you’re initially offered without haggling.
While you can also hire a 4×4, never go off-road with just one vehicle. Always be accompanied by another vehicle, with the means to tow each other out should you get into difficulties, as well as a plentiful supply of water.
Local Tours
Alternatively combine sand boarding with a local tour operator such as Orient Tours, just give them a call a couple of days before you want to go or book it online before you go.
