What Are the Different Types Of Dune Buggies In Dubai?

dubai-dune-buggy-guide

So, you are in Dubai, and the wonderful long stretches of sand dunes are calling you. Every sand ridge promises a huge adrenaline rush. But, before you choose to move ahead with the ride of your life, there is one question that is in the minds of every first-time adventure seeker  which buggy is the right one for me? 

When you walk through the office of the dune buggy operator in the city, you find a lot of names  like Can-Am Maverick X3, Polaris RZR, and various turbocharged beasts. The choice can feel overwhelming. 

This comprehensive guide helps you make the right choice. We will break down the options by seating capacity, engine performance, and brand so you can select the machine that matches your adventure style. 

Classification by Seating Capacity (The Most Popular Choice)

When most travelers search for dune buggies, they start with the simplest question: how many people need to fit? 

Single-Seater Buggies: The Solo Ranger

Best for: Solo travelers, experienced drivers, and adrenaline junkies who demand complete control.

A single-seater buggy is the minimalist’s choice—just you, 1000cc of responsive power, and the endless dunes.  lighter through the sand, responding instantly to throttle inputs and steering corrections. This setup attracts competitive riders and those seeking an introspective, almost meditative connection with the desert.

However, you would miss out on the social experience of the buggy ride. 

Monster offering – The Polaris RZR 1000cc single-seater exemplifies this category, delivering nimble handling.

Two-Seater Buggies: The Dynamic Duo

Best for: Couples, best friends, parent-child adventures, and any pair wanting to share the experience.

Two-seater models represent the sweet spot for most desert tourists. These rides should be an excellent pick for several reasons. It balances power, comfort, and maneuverability in a package that feels special without being overwhelming.

Monster Experience – The Can-Am Maverick X3 two-seater has become the industry standard. 

Four-Seater Buggies: The Family Beast

Best for: Families with children, groups of friends, double dates, and anyone prioritizing social adventure over individual performance.

Four-seater dune buggies are the democratic choice—your entire crew experiences the desert together in one machine. These vehicles prioritize safety and comfort. The four seaters are the perfect pick for long drives.  Everyone experiences the same magnificent vistas, the same moments of exhilaration.

Monster offering – The Can-Am Maverick X3 Max in four-seater configuration exemplifies this category, featuring a longer wheelbase, reinforced suspension, and enhanced stability systems.

Classification by Engine & Performance (Technical Authority)

There are different types of dune buggies depending on the engine and the performance. Horsepower, turbocharged vehicles, suspension, and other parameters make a lot of sense when choosing the right buggy to enhance your experience. 

Standard and Sport Models (800cc–1000cc)

These engines have the adequate power without the need for expert level skills. These machines excel for first-time riders, families, and anyone prioritizing accessibility over extreme performance. A standard Can-Am Maverick Sport is a capable and predictable choice from Monster Experience for newbies and sport centric adventurists. 

These vehicles have no violent surge of acceleration to catch you off-guard. The suspension is typically tuned for comfort rather than extreme travel. 

Turbocharged “Super” Buggies: The Real Deal

Want to take the Dubai sand dune experience from exciting to legendary level? Turbocharged engines inject forced air into the combustion chamber, multiplying power output. The Can-Am Maverick X3 Turbo produces 135 horsepower. The flagship Maverick X3 Turbo RR reaches an astonishing 195 horsepower. 

Long-travel suspension systems (typically 22-24 inches of travel compared to 16-20 inches on standard models) absorb the massive forces generated by these machines. This should be helpful in letting you control even at speeds exceeding 140 km/h on soft sand.

​These vehicles offer a critical advantage on the signature red dunes in Dubai. Without sufficient power, conventional vehicles sink and bog down. Turbo engines punch through with their continuous torque delivery.

Classification by Brand: Can-Am vs. Polaris

The two brands that dominate the desert buggy landscape include Polaris and Can-Am. Each of them represents a different philosophy when it comes to delivering an exceptional dune buggy experience.  

Polaris RZR: Agility and Technical Precision

Polaris vehicles have built a reputation of being the masters when it comes to sharp handling and versatility. The RZR XP 1000, with its 114 horsepower and shorter 90-inch wheelbase, excels at technical driving. 

The Polaris vehicles offer best steering inputs, quick to change direction, and confident navigation. They can be an excellent pick in sand dunes that have rocky terrains. The agility of the Polaris RZR is outstanding. Its lighter build accelerates faster through flat sections. 

However, the vehicles have a shorter wheelbase and thus may not offer the stability at high speeds. But, then, if you need some agility, you should sacrifice stability to certain extent. 

Can-Am Maverick: Raw Power and Premium Comfort

Monster Experience is proud of its Can-Am Maverick range of dune buggies. In fact, they have several buggies that are considered to be the Rolls Royce of the dune buggies. The extended 102-inch wheelbase creates a noticeably longer footprint that translates to exceptional stability on high-speed runs.

The turbocharged engine is more powerful than RZR competition. Maverick simply climbs larger dunes, accelerates more aggressively, and carries speed through terrain where RZRs would lose momentum.

Even the interiors of the Maverick vehicles talk of sophistication. Ergonomic bucket seats, intuitive controls, and a sophisticated suspension tuning are just a few wonderful additions. The Maverick X3 Max four-seater extends this philosophy to families. It offers roll cages and safety systems specifically engineered to protect four occupants across challenging terrain.

 

Comparison Table: Quick Summary

The table below should give you a good “at a glance” look at the best dune buggies that you can choose. 

Buggy Type Seating Capacity Engine / Horsepower Best For Stability Skill Level
Single-Seater Buggy 1 Polaris RZR 1000cc / 114 HP Solo adventurers, experienced drivers Medium Advanced
Two-Seater Turbo 2 Can-Am Maverick X3 / 135 HP Couples, pairs, intermediate drivers High Intermediate
Family Four-Seater 4 Can-Am Maverick X3 Max / 135 HP Families, groups, children Very High Beginner-friendly
Performance Flagship 2–4 Can-Am Maverick X3 Turbo RR / 200 HP Thrill-seekers, advanced drivers High Advanced

​Why Monster Experience Offers the Best Buggy Types?

Choosing a dune buggy type is an important decision you should make. But, equally important is where to experience the glorious dune buggy experience. 

We at Monster Experience stand apart from the competitors with a wide range of services and powerful dune buggy fleet. 

  • Can-Am Authorized Specialist – We operate exclusively premium Can-Am Maverick X3 models—the industry standard for capability and comfort. It is our commitment that is focussed on delivering the machines that create unforgettable experiences
  • Fleet Ownership and Maintenance – We own the entire fleet that we operate. That would mean every vehicle in our fleet receives the equal maintenance. That should translate into a better safety for you and your family.
  • Safety gear and equipment – We provide you a complete safety gear set up – irrespective of the dune buggy you choose. Pre-tour safety briefings train every guest before entering the desert.
  • Custom tour matching – We assign the types of buggies based on your skill level and group composition. Beginner families get four-seaters on gentle terrain. Experienced thrill-seekers get two-seater Turbos on advanced dunes.
  • Premium desert location – Our Sharjah base places you immediately on Al Badayer’s spectacular red dunes. 

Conclusion 

Desert can be an excellent option for multiple adventure requirements. Some of you may want to conquer extreme terrains. Some others may look for family moments of shared wonder beneath endless skies.  

Ready to experience the power of the Can-Am Maverick X3? Browse our Dune Buggy Rental Packages at Monster Experience and book your desert adventure today. From turbocharged performance machines to family-friendly four-seaters, we match you with the perfect buggy for your skill level and group composition. Your unforgettable desert experience starts here.

FAQs

Do I need a driver’s license for these buggies? 

No. For guided desert tours in designated off-road zones, a driver’s license isn’t required. Valid identification (ID or passport) confirms age compliance, but formal driving credentials are unnecessary. Professional guides accompany all tours to ensure safety.

Which buggy type is safest for kids? 

Four-seater models with full roll cages and four-point (or five-point) safety harnesses. The vehicle’s inherent stability and lower speed settings accommodate younger passengers securely.

Can I switch drivers in a 2-seater?

Yes. Most two-seater tours allow driver rotation halfway through, ensuring both participants experience control. Confirm this option when booking.

What is the difference between a Quad Bike and a Dune Buggy? 

Dune Buggies: Steering wheel, enclosed cockpit, roll cage, safety harnesses, seatbelts. They accommodate 1–4 passengers with inherent stability

Quad Bikes: Handlebar-controlled, open platform, solo operation. They’re lighter and more agile but demand higher skill levels and offer less safety equipment.

For families, groups, and safety-conscious adventurers, dune buggies win decisively.