Depending on how large the area is and how deep the sand is, it might be advisable to remove as much of the sand as is practical before proceeding.
Then set out about improving/replacing the soil. One of the best ways is to work in large amounts of compost. If you're lucky, a local landscaping company will have a supply that you can purchase in bulk, keeping the cost down.Otherwise, purchase the best quality topsoil you can. Be careful, though, because what is passed off as topsoil is often low quality. Be there the day they deliver to check it out and make sure it's rich and crumbly?not chunks of clay or very sandy.Once you've prepared the soil?absolutely the best thing you can do?then choose a drought-tolerant grass for the site. You didn't say where you live, and that determines what type you should plant. So ask at a local good-quality garden center what type of grass would be drought-tolerant in your area.