Off-roading in Dubai

[captain mad]

Just taken delivery of a 2015 FJ Cruiser so would like to use it for what it was intended. Anybody on here experienced in going out in to the desert/mountains etc, who could give me a few pointers on driving skills/ routes etc or any trips planned I could join in on? Much appreciated in advance.

[KieronGSi]

First thing is to look at the equipment you'll need, always bring recovery equipment i.e. snatch rope, shackles, spade and you can bring an air compressor although we normally exit the desert via a petrol station. Tyre pressures are hugely important in the desert and i normally run 15psi on my LR3 but that will differ from vehicle to vehicle so probably best to do some research on yours. The driving aspect you will pick up on the way.

A good desert run is Al Aweer to fossil rock.

[85Carrera]

www.me4x4.me

Well organised trips and always a few more experienced members who are happy to share their knowledge.

[shirt]

a guy at work got his wife some desert driving tuition recently as previously she had been unwilling to share driving duties in the soft stuff. apparently it was well worth the money, i will ask for details.

buy the dubai and oman explorer guides. there are some really great routes in there. fossil rock is a nice easy starter [unless you get cocky and straightline it to the end point as i did once, then it takes more guts and/or stupidity!]. oman is more wadi trails, easier to drive on and stunning views but more of a weekend camping jaunt. i did a pretty serious weekend trek with just my ex and zero experience and it was easy enough.

i would advise buying a basic socket set and spanners. your car is new but the wadi's are great at shaking your suspension to pieces.

i'm not a member, but these guys seem to be popular as well:

http://www.almost4x4.com/vb/