Planning a dune buggy adventure in the deserts of Dubai? Renting a dune buggy can provide an incredibly fun as well as thrilling way to explore the sandy landscapes. However, not all dune buggy rental companies are created equal. To ensure you select the right rental company and buggy for your needs, avoid these common mistakes others make when booking dune buggies for rent.
Neglecting Transmission Type
When renting a dune buggy, one of the most important factors is whether it has manual or automatic transmission. Dune buggies are specially designed for maneuvering sandy dunes and unstable terrain. This makes manual transmission the better choice for handling the constant shifting desert surfaces. Automatic transmissions can struggle as well as get stuck on steep dunes. Before booking, confirm the buggy you’re reserving has a manual gearbox. This small detail makes a huge difference in the handling as well as performance capabilities of the vehicle.
Not Checking Age and Condition
You’ll want to avoid renting an old, worn out dune buggy. Check that the paint and body panels aren’t covered in dents, rust, or extensive scratches. Look at the tread wear on the tires to make sure they still have decent grip and aren’t bald. Lift up the hood to see the engine appears properly maintained. Test all buttons and equipment like the horn, lights, brake pedal, accelerator, etc. Renting an aging buggy in poor condition can lead to breakdowns and accidents. Take time to inspect the vehicle thoroughly beforehand.
Not Looking at Safety Features
No doors, no windows, no roof-you’re wide open on a dune buggy. When renting buggies, make sure they are equipped with basic safety features such as side bars, seat belts, roll bars and secure handles. The two side bars offer stabilization and protection in the event of tilting over or rolling over. The multi-point seat belts prevent you from flying over the dunes. Roll bars increase safety in event of a roll-over. They also provide handles for a grip if the ride becomes too rough. When renting a buggy, don’t settle for less than safety.
Neglecting Insurance/Paperwork
You can get a dune buggy in Dubai, of course, but you need to present papers, such as an international drivers ‘license, a rental contract, and insurance. Don’t fall into the trap of making your payment without first confirming that all documents are in order. Examine the rental contract in detail and check for traps. Make sure it includes collision damage waiver and accident liability insurance. Inquire about deductibles and what precisely is included in the policy. It is important to take the time to review all rental paperwork thoroughly
Not Booking in Advance
In high season, dune buggies fill up fast in Dubai. But if you wait until the last minute, your choices will be limited. Instead, rent a buggy as soon as you can and as long as you can. This allows you to obtain the precise vehicle, rental period, and accessories that you desire. Booking in advance also helps lock in pricing, which varies depending on demand. To ensure that you find your dream dune buggy, make sure you plan ahead and reserve early.
Choosing Style Over Substance
Some rental agencies have fleets of brightly colored or stylishly painted dunes buggies. But flashy paint jobs don’t make up for poor performance and handling. Don’t let eye-catching designs distract you from inspecting the engine, transmission, interior, and undercarriage. Make sure to take the buggy for a short test drive. Ensure it accelerates, steers, and brakes smoothly. The style of a dune buggy shouldn’t outweigh mechanical condition and safety. Keep priorities straight when selecting your rental.
Not Checking Size Capacity
It’s important to consider the number of people in your group when renting a buggy. Trying to cram too many people into a 2 or 4-seater buggy is unsafe. Check the listed capacity and confirm it provides enough comfortable seating for everyone in your party. Trying to squeeze in too many passengers will make the buggy harder to control on dunes. Book a larger 6 or 8-seater buggy if you’re traveling in a bigger group. Don’t underestimate occupancy restrictions.
Underestimating the Terrain
Many first-timers make the mistake of underestimating the challenging landscape of desert dunes. The constantly shifting slopes and valleys demand more from a buggy than flat gravel trails. Ensure the buggy you rent has a suspension system and sufficient ground clearance to handle uneven terrain. All-wheel drive capabilities and wide tires are also better equipped for sand. Don’t realize too late that the basic buggy you reserved can’t handle rough desert conditions.
Choosing the Wrong Location
Dubai stretches across a vast area, so rental agencies can be scattered far apart. Avoid the mistake of booking with an agency conveniently located near your hotel or city center. Their dune driving location may end up being over an hour away from you. Instead, research agencies positioned closest to prime dune bashing areas like Al Qudra Lakes, Lahbab, and Tal Moreeb Dunes. Choosing a rental spot nearby major dune fields saves you time driving to and from your hotel.
Not Asking About Add-Ons
Most rental agencies offer additional add-ons beyond just the buggy. You can enhance your experience with a professional dune guide, refreshments, meals, photography, camel rides, and more. Don’t forget to inquire about available upgrades and combo deals. Add-ons like sunset tours and overnight camping can take your basic rental to the next level. Asking about bolt-on options gives you the chance to customize your perfect buggy excursion.
Conclusion
Renting a dune buggy in the Dubai desert can be an amazing adventure – if done right! Avoid these common mistakes like neglecting transmission type, limited safety features, poor condition, insufficient insurance, etc. Carefully researching rental agencies, inspecting vehicles, asking questions, and booking ahead ensures a safe, thrilling experience. Putting in the effort upfront allows you to sit back and enjoy cruising the golden dunes by desert buggy ride dubai getaway.