Dune buggies are all-terrain vehicles, similar to off-road vehicles, specifically designed for riding on sand dunes. Unlike other off-road vehicles, though, the dune buggies don’t have regular doors or a fixed roof, and in some cases, they appear almost wholly composed of tubes. These vehicles have the necessary bodywork and very wide wheels and are lightweight enough to be driven on soft sand.
Dune buggies were named after a basic American carriage of the late 19th century called ‘buggy,’ a word that years later was adopted to describe the bodies of earlier automobiles. Rent a Dune buggy when you travel to Dubai and enjoy the experience.
Types of Dune Buggy
Fiberglass Dune Buggies
Fiberglass Dune Buggies are recreational off-road vehicles designed for driving on the beach or desert dunes and on public roads. These buggies are generally used for riding on dirt and sandy terrains and can be built and modified to ride on different types of pavement as they are customisable.
Sand Rails
Sand rails are vehicles created for riding on dunes, and unlike dune buggies, the sand rails are built from scratch and not modified from existing cars. They are built using tubular, open-frame chassis with incorporated roll cages and rails. Sand rails are referred to as “carros tubulares” in some Spanish-speaking countries meaning tubular cars.
Sand rails are designed for driving on soft sand, not hard pavement, as they are much lighter than regular cars and do not sink on soft sand.
Desert Racing and Dune Bashing
Dune buggies are one of the most common off-road vehicles used in desert races. Desert racing is prominent in North America (US, Mexico), Africa (Senegal), and the Middle East (UAE, Qatar).
Dune bashing has gained popularity as a recreational activity and a tourist attraction in several regions of the world. Dune bashing involves driving a buggy up and down sand dunes to experience the thrill of a very bumpy ride. The activity is far more enjoyable than it sounds.
Top Dune Buggies
1. Meyers Manx
Meyers Manx is the original buggy and is considered the father of dune buggies. It was basically an off-road refit iconic Volkswagen Beetle when it was first introduced in 1964. The vehicle took the world by storm with its off-road
capabilities and its uniqueness, thus dominating dune racing and breaking tens of records immediately.
A California-based company makes Meyer Manx and now has plenty of options, including different body kits, classic custom setups, and extensive individual parts. This cool ride is inexpensive, a DIY option, and a vibrant car to add to your collection. A classic Meyers Manx kit will cost you around $2,400 only.
2. Joyner Sand Viper 1,100cc
The Joyner Sand Viper 1,100cc is a lot more expensive than the Meyer Manx (starting at $10,000) and has a speed of up to 70 miles per hour (113km/h). the vehicle has a powerful water-cooled 86hp four-cylinder engine hence the speed.
Additionally, this package includes a 14-inch ground clearance, hydraulic disc brakes, and an 11-gallon gasoline tank. Joyner Sand Viper will make you smile the instant you get in it, and you are guaranteed a lot of fun, great handling, and unforgettable experiences.
3. Polaris Double Seater Dune Buggy
Polaris RZR XP 1000 is one of the most powerful double-seater dune buggies available in the Dubai desert. This machine is engineered for steadfast performance with the optimum balance of power, suspension, and a flexible structure that gives you the ultimate assurance and control.
4. CAN-AM Buggy Dubai
Experience a mind-blowing through the desert sands with the 2-seater dune buggy, Maverick X3 XRS Turbo RR. X3 RS Turbo, one of the most powerful buggies in the Dubai desert, has a 200 hp Rotax ACE (Advanced Combustion Efficiency) and a 900 cc Turbocharged Triple-cylinder.
This good-looking buggy is unbelievably suspended and guarantees a fantastic experience. The leading manufacturer of these dune buggies is Can-am.
5. BMS Sand Sniper T-1500 4S
The BMS Sand Sniper T-1500 4S is in the same price range as the Joyner Sand Viper but is very different from it. The four-seater vehicle has 108 ponies that ensure you are never short of growl and has a roof rack if you want a unique picnic location.
The sandpiper is the perfect option for you if you are seeking to experience an off-road adventure with your friends.
6. Drakart Intimidator
With a name that’s, intimidating to some people, Drakart’s hard-core, purpose-built buggy combines a special lightweight body with a ton of power. The are two alternative engines to choose from, one a 1,300cc Hayabusa and an even more powerful 1,340cc linked to a six-speed manual transmission.
The Drakart Intimidator has enough power to get you through sand, dirt, or any obstacle on your way. If you are worried about going airborne, the Drakart packs a high-end suspension from Tornado that allows it to land however you wish.
In Conclusion
Adventure lovers, whether beginners or experienced riders, can have a thrilling experience with the Dubai dune baggies. You get to feel the desert landscape and enjoy the trip on these four-wheel vehicles. To explore the Dubai sand dunes, ensure you choose a reputable operator and follow the safety guidelines.
