Sandboarding is one of Dubai’s most exciting desert adventures, offering the thrill of sliding down golden dunes on a board. 

To enjoy it safely and get the most out of the activity, you need proper guidance, the right posture, and awareness of desert conditions.

In this article, we’ll guide you step by step on how to do sandboarding perfectly. You’ll learn the essential safety measures, how to choose the right dunes, the difference between sitting and standing techniques, and tips from expert guides. 

Whether you’re a first-time adventurer or someone looking to improve your skills, this guide will help you ride with confidence and make your desert experience unforgettable.

What is Sandboarding?

Sandboarding is like snowboarding, but instead of snow, you glide down sandy dunes. You use a special board to slide down the soft desert slopes, feeling the rush of the wind and the thrill of the ride.

Dubai’s golden desert dunes create perfect conditions for sandboarding. The sand is soft enough to be safe, yet firm enough to give a smooth ride. The wide open desert offers plenty of space to practice without crowds, and the warm weather makes it an enjoyable experience throughout the year.

The best part? Sandboarding is for everyone. Whether you are a beginner or have never tried anything similar, you can enjoy it safely. Kids, families, couples, or solo travelers can all experience the fun. 

Expert guides, like those from Trawey, provide step-by-step instructions to make sure everyone can slide down the dunes confidently and safely, making it a must-try desert adventure in Dubai.

Gear You Need for Sandboarding

To enjoy sandboarding safely, you need a few essential items:

• Sandboard: The main board for sliding down the dunes. Some have bindings to keep your feet secure.
  
• Helmet: Protects your head in case of falls.
  
• Knee and Elbow Pads: Helpful for beginners to prevent scrapes and bruises.
  
• Comfortable Clothing: Lightweight, long sleeves and pants are best to protect from sun and sand. Closed shoes are recommended.
  

Most guided tours, like those offered by Trawey, provide quality equipment and expert guidance. You can either request the gear when booking or bring your own. 

While sandboarding is generally safe on soft desert sand, having the right gear helps beginners feel more confident and comfortable. Guided tours also ensure you get tips on posture, balance, and controlling speed, making your first sandboarding experience smooth and enjoyable.

Why do you need sandboard training? 

You might think sandboarding looks easy. But a bit of training makes a big difference.

• Learn how to balance properly on the board.
  
• Understand how to control your speed and direction.
  
• Know how to stop safely to avoid minor falls.
  
• Build confidence before tackling higher dunes.
  

At Trawey Tours, our expert instructors like Jackson and Hamdan give quick, practical training before every session.
They make sure you know the basics so your experience is safe, easy, and full of fun.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Sandboarding

Sandboarding is fun, but getting comfortable with balance, turns, and stopping safely is key, especially for first-timers. In this section, we’ll share practical tips to help you stay steady, control your speed, and enjoy a smooth ride down the dunes. 

Step 1: Find the Right Dune

Choose a dune that is safe and suitable for beginners. Look for a gentle slope with soft, smooth sand. Avoid dunes that are too steep or crowded. Soft sand helps reduce the risk of injury if you fall.

Step 2: Position Your Feet

Decide whether you are left-foot-forward or right-foot-forward on the board. Place your feet firmly on the board, either in the bindings or positioned comfortably. Make sure your stance feels natural before starting.

Step 3: Balance Your Body

Bend your knees slightly and keep your arms open for balance. Lean slightly forward, keeping your weight centered over the board. 

This posture helps you stay stable and absorb any bumps as you slide down. Beginners can start by sitting on the board, which gives more control and grip.

Step 4: Start Sliding Smoothly

Give a gentle push with your hands or feet to start. Keep your body relaxed and lean forward slightly. Avoid leaning back too much, as this can slow you down abruptly or cause a fall. Smooth movements help maintain balance.

Step 5: Control Speed & Stop Safely

Use your heel edge to dig into the sand and slow down if needed. Beginners can sit down to stop safely while keeping feet forward. 

Practice turning by shifting your weight slightly to one side. Choosing the right dune and maintaining proper posture makes speed control easier and your ride more enjoyable.

Why Training Makes a Difference

Learning sandboarding may look simple, but proper training makes all the difference. With the right guidance, beginners can avoid injuries, build confidence, and enjoy the sport fully.

• Safety first: Sand might be softer than snow, but wrong posture or sudden falls can still hurt. Leaning too far forward or backward is a common mistake that can throw you off balance.
  
• Avoiding beginner errors: Many first-timers either lock their knees or keep their body too stiff. Others fall forward or lean back too much, which increases the chance of slipping or landing awkwardly.
  
• Expert guidance: With Trawey’s certified instructors by your side, you learn how to position your feet, bend your knees correctly, and balance your body safely. Our guides explain each step clearly and make sure you practice in the safest way possible.
  
• Faster progress: Instead of struggling on your own, expert coaching helps you get the hang of sandboarding quickly. With small corrections and the right tips, you’ll start sliding smoothly in no time.
  

At Trawey, we encourage everyone, from beginners to adventure lovers, to try sandboarding with our professional guidance. It’s fun, safe, and the perfect way to enjoy Dubai’s golden dunes.

Sandboarding Precautions You Should Know

Sandboarding is exciting, but it’s important to take a few precautions to stay safe and enjoy it fully:

• Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes; loose or baggy clothing and sandals can make it harder to balance.
  
• Use safety gear like helmets or knee pads if available, especially for beginners.
  
• Stay hydrated; the desert heat can make you tired quickly.
  
• Follow your guide’s instructions carefully. They know the dunes and the safest spots to ride.
  
• Avoid sandboarding after meals or if you feel dizzy or unwell.
  
• Never try steep dunes without your instructor.

Sandboarding Training with Trawey Tours

At Trawey, we believe sandboarding should be exciting, safe, and enjoyable for everyone That’s why our tours come with skilled and certified instructors who guide you step by step. Their goal is to make sure you learn the right techniques, avoid injuries, and gain confidence on the dunes.

• Certified instructors for all levels: Our guides are trained to teach both beginners and experienced riders. They focus on posture, balance, and safe landings so that every ride is smooth and fun.
  
• Beginner-friendly environment: Safety is always our priority. We provide quality equipment, including boards and protective gear, and carefully select dunes that are perfect for learning. This ensures kids, families, and first-timers feel comfortable.
  
• Family-inclusive activity: Sandboarding is one of those rare adventure sports that everyone can enjoy together. Whether sitting down for more stability or standing up for a bigger thrill, there’s a way for every age group to join in.
  
• More than just sandboarding: With Trawey, you can also combine this activity with other exciting adventures like dune bashing, quad biking, buggy rides, camel riding, and even an evening BBQ dinner under the stars.
  

We recommend sandboarding to all our guests because it’s safe, unique, and fun for all ages. With Trawey’s support and training, it becomes one of the highlights of your desert safari.

Practical Tips for Sandboarding Success

Before you hit the dunes, keeping a few basics in mind can make your sandboarding experience safer and more enjoyable. These small steps go a long way in ensuring you focus on the fun instead of the discomfort.

• Protect your skin with sunscreen: The desert sun is strong, even in the early hours. Applying a good SPF before your safari helps prevent sunburn and keeps you comfortable for the rest of the day.
  
• Dress smartly: Wear light, breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs. Closed shoes are best for grip and to avoid burning your feet on the hot sand.
  
• Stay hydrated: The desert can dehydrate you quickly, especially when you’re active. Carry water and take small sips often to maintain energy and avoid dizziness.
  
• Choose the right time: Morning and evening are the best times for sandboarding. The sand is cooler, the sun is softer, and the experience is more enjoyable without extreme heat.
  
• Best months to try: October to March is the ideal season. The weather is pleasant, with cooler mornings and evenings, making outdoor adventures comfortable.

Who Should Avoid Sandboarding

Even though sandboarding is generally safe, it’s not for everyone.
You should avoid sandboarding if:

• You have back, knee, or joint problems.
• If you were injured recently.
  
• You’re pregnant.
  
• You have heart conditions or any health issues that make balance or sudden movement risky.
  
• Very young children or older adults may find it difficult to maintain control on the dunes.
  

It’s always best to consult your guide before starting if you’re unsure about your fitness level.

By following these simple tips, you’ll create memories without any hassle.

Sandboarding is one of the most exciting and accessible ways to enjoy Dubai’s golden desert. It combines adventure with simplicity, making it perfect for families, first-time visitors, and thrill-seekers alike. With the right posture, gear, and guidance, anyone can learn to ride the dunes safely and confidently.

At Trawey Tours, we make sure every guest enjoys this activity with the support of trained instructors, quality equipment, and a beginner-friendly environment. Safety, comfort, and fun go hand in hand, so you can focus on the thrill without worry.

Book your sandboarding safari with Trawey today and experience the desert adventure of a lifetime.