Dune buggy in Dubai – A legacy transported from the Californian beaches

History

Once upon a time, the very first dune buggies were Volkswagen Beetle taken out of their bodies. The Beetle was generally used for dune buggies because of its unique rear-mounted engine. During the late 1950s and early 1960s, these funky rides could often be seen cruising down the sandy beaches of California.

Back in 1958, Daniel Rettig, hailing from Oceana, CA, had a bright idea. He took a Volkswagen Bug, and crafted a snazzy short pan buggy. Daniel was just one of the many visionaries working on these off-road wonders that were getting popular in that era. Meanwhile, a VW dealership in Los Angeles, named EMPI joined the club and began offering dune buggy kits which were called – 'Sportsters'.

That’s when the dune buggy craze really caught on. A much lighter, aluminium-based buggy called the Burro was designed by Hilder 'Tiny' Thompson. Rumor has it that Tiny’s creation was the spark of inspiration behind the iconic 'Manx' buggy

After that, the dune buggy craze really caught on. A lighter, aluminum-based buggy called the Burro was designed by Hilder 'Tiny' Thompson. Some say that his design was inspired by the famous 'Manx' buggy designed by Bruce Meyers in the 1960s.

Dubai Deserts and Dune Buggies in Dubai

For decades, the deserts of Dubai have served as a playground for adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers. From heart-pounding 4X4 dune bashing and off-roading races, quad biking to serene hot-air ballooning and traditional camel racing, the Dubai deserts offer it all. Among these adventures, dune buggies have surprisingly found a special place in the hearts of Dubai residents and tourists alike.

Here are some common uses of dune buggies in Dubai:

Racing and Motorsports: The UAE hosts various motorsports events and races in the desert, including dune buggy racing. These events attract both professional and amateur racers who compete in off-road races and rallies using some of the super-costly dune buggies which produce massive horsepower.

Recreational Use: Locals in Dubai who enjoy outdoor recreational activities often use dune buggies for weekend adventures in the desert. It's a way to escape the city and explore the natural beauty of the surrounding desert landscapes.

Film and Entertainment Industry: Dubai's unique desert landscapes have also made it a popular location for film and television productions. Dune buggies are sometimes used in these productions to capture dynamic desert scenes and action sequences.

Customised Dune Buggies: Some individuals and enthusiasts in Dubai have customised dune buggies for their specific needs and preferences. These custom vehicles may be used for dune bashing, desert exploration, or even as a unique mode of transportation in remote desert areas.

Dune Bashing for General Public and Tourist Attraction: Dune buggies in Dubai are perfect for dune bashing, an activity that involves navigating the sand dunes at high speeds, and providing an adrenaline rush for thrill-seekers.

In summary, a dune buggy ride in Dubai is a highly sought-after outdoor tourism activity that provides a remarkable range of unforgettable experiences. After all, Dubai is known for crafting indelible memories amidst the desert's heart.