Motocross bikes are not ridden inside Dubai itself. It all happens in the desert to the southeast, around Lehbab and Al Faya, some forty minutes from the centre. Machines fall into two groups: pit bikes of 125 to 150cc for people sitting on a bike for the first time, and full-size 250 to 450cc motocross bikes for those who have ridden before, with electric models on a few fleets. Time is sold in blocks of one to three hours, almost always with an instructor riding in front to set the pace. Protection comes with the rental: helmet, goggles, knee and elbow guards, chest protector, gloves.

The distance between this and a quad bike is wider than it looks. A motorcycle asks for real skill, and sand behaves nothing like dirt — it will not hold the front wheel, and on a climb you need drive or the rear buries itself. Coming off at these speeds is part of the outing, so many operators either ask for riding experience up front or keep a newcomer on a pit bike on flat ground beside the camp.

The practical side is short but firm. Riders take the controls from 16 as a rule; a few schools work with children from six on electric pit bikes. The season runs October to April, and in summer groups go out at first light only, because by midday the sand climbs past 50 degrees. Bring closed flat-soled shoes, sleeves, a neck scarf and water. Settle three things before paying: whether experience is required, whether insurance is included, and whether a damage deposit is held against the bike.