Desert driving is an adventurous activity that is part of the unique UAE experience. Visitors from across the globe come here to explore these amazing off-road trails and dunes. However, it is not something you can enjoy or even attempt in your average sedan. Even sports cars are no match for these trails. The best cars for desert driving are the rough and tough 4-wheel drive vehicles with unmatched power and superior control.
Luckily, you can find a significant collection of off-road vehicles, including automatic or manual 4-wheel drive vehicles, in the Emirates. If you wish to explore the dunes of the UAE desert on your own, here are some of the best desert-driving cars you can consider.
Best Cars for Desert Driving
The foremost criteria for a good desert driving car are its power and toughness. The UAE desert is unforgiving even under good weather conditions, so you need a car that is strong and resilient. A car that can keep going on over the rough terrain and under the brutal sun. Technically speaking, you need a car with good ground clearance. A lower gear ratio, good torque output and locking differential.
All the cars in our list today fulfil these basic criteria. However, we will make your choice easier by sharing more details that matter.
Nissan Patrol
- Engine: 275-428 hp
- Ground Clearance: 273 mm
Nissan Patrol has surpassed the expectation with a major facelift in 2020. The model features various upgraded security features and a modernised outlook with its signature c-shaped LED lights. Low maintenance and access to spare parts across the UAE, makes it a popular choice among the residents. Check our collection of Nissan Patrol for sale online:
- Used Nissan Patrol 2020 in Dubai
- Used Nissan Patrol 2020 in Sharjah
- Used Nissan Patrol 2020 in Abu Dhabi
- Used Nissan Patrol 2020 in Ajman
Its variants come in two engines, V6 (275 hp) and V8 (400 hp) with an adequate ground clearance of 273 mm.
Land Cruiser
- Engine: 271-362 hp
- Ground Clearance: 225 mm
Toyota Land Cruiser is a dependable SUV, remaining true to the original design. It can be bought in two different engine variations V6 (271 hp) and V8 (362 hp). At a ground clearance of around 225 mm, it works well along the off-road trail. Check out available used Toyota Land Cruisers for sale on dubizzle:
- Used Toyota Land Cruiser for sale in Dubai
- Second-hand Toyota Land Cruiser for sale in Abu Dhabi
- Used Toyota Land Cruiser for sale in Ajman
- Second-hand Toyota Land Cruiser for sale in Sharjah
Range Rover
- Engine: 380-557 hp
- Ground Clearance: 295.5 mm
Range Rover is a luxury model with spacious interior and a passenger capacity of 5. The 2020 model comes with no major changes as compared to the previous model. The engine is capable of producing 380 horsepower to 557 horsepower depending on its type. With a ground clearance of 295.5 mm, you can take Range Rover to the thrilling desert trails without fear.
If you are interested to own Range Rover for an exciting off-roading experience, then have a look at the listings on dubizzle:
- Second-hand Range Rover in Dubai for sale online
- Second-hand Range Rover in Abu Dhabi for sale online
- Second-hand Range Rover in Ajman for sale online
- Second-hand Range Rover in Sharjah for sale online
Jeep Wrangler
- Engine: 285 hp
- Ground Clearance: 250 mm
Jeep Wrangler sports a classic design for which the brand is known for. The 4 to 5 seater features 285 horsepower V6 engine and offers a high ground clearance of 250 mm. Doors and roof can be removed for a more adventurous ride along desert trails. The durable SUV is designed to tackle tough terrains. The off-roading enthusiasts who want to get started with the adventure may opt for a well-maintained and affordable Jeep Wrangler on dubizzle. Take a look at the available models of Jeep Wrangler:
- Used Jeep Wrangler in Dubai
- Used Jeep Wrangler in Abu Dhabi
- Used Jeep Wrangler in Ajman
- Used Jeep Wrangler in Sharjah
Mercedes G Class
- Engine: 422-585 hp
- Ground Clearance: 241 mm
Mercedes G Class holds up to its timeless design with a refined interior. The G Class features an engine of 422 hp to 585 hp. This gives you access to all the power needed to traverse the desert dunes in addition to a ground clearance of 241 mm. The old gen infotainment system still leaves something to be desired as the screen lacks touch capabilities and needs to be controlled via touchpad and knob.
If Mercedes G Class suits to your needs, check out available models for sale:
- Used Mercedes G Class in Dubai for sale
- Used Mercedes G Class in Abu Dhabi for sale
- Used Mercedes G Class in Ajman for sale
- Used Mercedes G Class in Sharjah for sale
Chevrolet Tahoe
- Engine: 335 hp
- Ground Clearance: 200 mm
Chevrolet Tahoe is among the best SUV cars for desert driving, featuring four different model variants LS, LT, Z71 and Premier. The standard 5.3L engine comes with 335 horsepower and 6-speed automatic transmission. Low ground clearance and average cargo space may play a down factor but its engine potential is enough to easily carry you through the deserts of UAE. You can look for Chevrolet Tahoe that are up for sale on dubizzle if you are in emirates:
- Second-hand Chevrolet Tahoe in Dubai
- Second-hand Chevrolet Tahoe in Abu Dhabi
- Second-hand Chevrolet Tahoe in Ajman
- Second-hand Chevrolet Tahoe in Sharjah
Ford 150 Raptor
- Engine: 250-450 hp
- Ground Clearance: 249-251 mm
Ford 150 Raptor offers a lot of customization options in terms of engine power, cab style and accessories. In fact, the Raptor is among the high end variant models with access to 3.5 litre 450 hp high output engine. Access to cutting edge safety features like 360 cameras can help navigate tight spots along the off-road trails or crowded city roads.
Check out our listings for Ford F-series Pickup for sale across the UAE:
- Used Ford F Series Pickup in Dubai
- Second-hand Ford F Series Pickup in Abu Dhabi
- Used Ford F Series Pickup in Sharjah
- Second-hand Ford F Series Pickup in Ajman
Every off-road car comes with its own perks. Some offer speed and power while others exceed in reliability. Before you plan to go dune bashing in the deserts, make sure you pack essential equipment like a shovel, jack, communication and important car accessories and spare parts. It is advisable for first-timers to take desert driving lessons offered by several driving institutes or tour companies in the UAE.
With access to a plethora of car brands and models for off-roading in the UAE, you can choose one that best suits your needs and budget. Stay tuned to our auto blogs for more information on car parts, market trends, repairs and more.
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