Dubai, United Arab Emirates - February 2006; The Empty Quarter outside Dubai. Deserts are majestic and beautiful.They are also harsh and unforgiving,. This dichotomy lies at the heart of the fascination they hold over us. Sunset over the orange sands of the deserts outside Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Regrettably, uncontrolled dune safaris and tourist exploitation are ruining many areas. As seen here... Dune bashing is a particularly egregious example of this. Driving in a 4WD or dune buggy may be good for a cheap thrill, but it is emblematic of our broader disrespect for our planet and its beautful life and ecosystems.