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15 Best Desert Safaris in Dubai

By Maresa Manara

A desert safari is one of the best ways to experience Emirati culture. From quad biking over sand dunes to camping under the stars to taking a sunrise hot air balloon tour, here's our pick of the very best desert safaris in Dubai. Ante up the adrenaline, and dive on in.

Bedouin Life, Falconry, and Wildlife Drive by Platinum Heritage Arrow

While this tour’s selling point is that it lets guests "experience life as a Bedouin nomad," being picked up at your hotel door in a luxury Land Rover sets things off on a more comfortable foot. Camels will take you to the Bedouin camp in time for sunrise, and the wildlife safari in the Desert Conservation Reserve, which stops to see local animals, is once-in-a-lifetime. Guides are great: they’ll help you prepare traditional Arabic dishes (Ful medames, Arabic bread, and desserts) and explain the ins and outs of local Arabic dancing.

Overnight Safari by Rayna Tours & Travel Arrow

Drivers take Al Awir road into the desert for some dune driving and photos at sunset. From there, head to the camp for camel rides. Next up, there’s a belly dancing show and open bar, henna painting, and a fire show. However, it’s the overnight experience that is truly special. Once all the other guests have left, guides set up camp with sleeping bags and blankets, and a special star gazing talk. Watching the sunrise from your camp over breakfast is unforgettable. If you pre-book, guides will stop for some sand skiing and quad biking opportunities on the way back to Dubai.

Evening Desert Safari by Atlanta Safari Dubai Arrow

There’s something magical about venturing into the desert at night, and this late afternoon-evening safari is no different. This is the kind of tour where guests feel completely looked after. Once everyone reaches camp, there are pre-dinner snacks, henna tattoo opportunities and live dance shows. The buffet barbecue dinner (couscous, fresh salads, lamb roasted below ground, grilled prawns, chicken and apricot stews) is one of the best we’ve had on a desert safari.

Overnight Desert Safari and Hot Air Balloon flight by Platinum Heritage Arrow

Luxury safaris don’t get much better than this, and the hotel pick up in an open-top vintage Land Rover’s your first clue. As you leave the city behind and head for the desert, guides regale guests with tales of Dubai’s history, as well as a run-through of local customs and traditions. Once you reach the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, the tour turns safari, African-style. The camels that take you back to your Arabic tent in the evening are an extra special touch, and the early morning hot air balloon flight is a magical experience.

Charlie Hobbs

Maya Silver

CNT Editors

Dune Riders (Adventure Unlimited) by Dream Explorer Dubai Arrow

Adventurous travelers make up this tour’s tribe. Once you get to the desert, there’s a swift safety briefing and then you’re off: dipping and diving over sunburnt sand dunes, some of which lie at a stomach-dropping 90 degree angle. The trip happens in convoy, so there’s no need to worry about ending up lost in the middle of the desert. An hour of sand boarding adds extra thrills.

Quad Bikes Safari by Red Dunes Desert Safari Arrow

There’s nothing quite like charging over dunes and across the desert on your very own quad bike. Everyone is picked up at the hotel, and driven 30 minutes to the quad biking spot in the desert. While this certainly isn’t the most luxurious, or in-depth desert safari, it’s ideal for anyone who wants to experience local Arabic culture and have a bit of adventure on a short time frame.

Hummer H2 Safari by Sand Trax Dubai Desert Safaris Arrow

This four-hour tour begins with a hotel pick up in a huge white Hummer, which will whisk you out to the desert. Drivers are super organized and run you through the itinerary: thrilling dune drive, photos at sunset, a barbecue dinner, belly dancing, a dizzyingly good whirling dervish, shisha, and Arabic coffee so strong your spoon stands upright in it. Most people do desert safaris in a Land Cruiser, so the experience in a Hummer is completely different, and novel.

Desert Safari by Arabian Nights Tours Arrow

The adrenaline charge that bumping over the steep sand dunes gives you is amazing, but it’s the post-drive camp time that really stands out. Rather than the usual all-you-can-eat buffet and barbecue, this camp offers shawarma – a typical Arabic dish of ground meat, falafel or chicken with vegetables and fries, served in a wrap. There are opportunities to get henna tattoos or watch a belly-dancing show, or just spend time with friends at the table, before being driven back to your hotel.

Morning Desert Safari with Sand Boarding by Arabian Expedition Arrow

If you get to bed early, a desert safari in the morning is rather special – and this one with Arabian Expedition is one of the best. The drive over Dubai’s undulating dunes is fun, with experienced drivers navigating some hair-raisingly steep drops. Once you've caught your breath there’s sand boarding, with a guide showing you to how whizz down the slopes.

Desert Safari by Adventure Leisure Tourism Arrow

Adventure Leisure Tourism offers plenty of safaris, but their straight up desert safari is by far their best—and the range of activities included is far more eclectic than most. This activity-led tour will take guests dune bashing, on a camel ride, and through a whirlwind of cultural experiences, with a variety of shows you won't see elsewhere. For an extra fee, guests can add quad biking to the mix.

Flying Carpet with Dinner for Two Safari by Orient Tours Arrow

This romantic tour runs on request for parties of two. Things kick off with a dune drive in one of their luxury Jeeps, before you’re taken to a very impressive lump of sand for a sand-boarding lesson. A local camel farm follows, and finally a well-deserved private barbecue dinner at a desert camp, with performances. The pre-dinner falcon show is great, but it’s the whirling dervish performance that really captured our imagination.

Sunrise in the Desert Safari by Tribal Trail Tourism Arrow

Anyone wanting a personalized tour will love Tribal Trails’ early morning take on the desert safari. This tour is popular with families and older travellers who rise early, but are still up for an adventure, and the option to request a private car is part of the appeal. Drivers are attentive and kind, and safety conscious: a boon when navigating the rollercoaster-like dunes, and when strapping guests into sandboards.

Premium Sundowner Dune Dinner Safari by Arabian Adventures Arrow

A desert safari is one of the best things to do in Dubai, and this is the crème de la crème. Jump in the Land Rover and make for the desert, where you’ll get to experience a sunset dune drive in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (knowing a portion of your ticket goes to conservation). A glass of bubbly calms any post-dune-bashing nerves, as does kicking back on Arabian-style blankets with a shisha pipe. Of course, don’t forget to enjoy the dinner: an Arabic-style buffet and barbecue that are well worth writing home about.

Exclusive Morning Safari by Funtours Arrow

A cheerful morning pick up sets the tone for this family-friendly tour. Guides are smiley and informed – and they’re great drivers, too. There’s a definite game plan, with exactly 20 minutes of dune driving, followed by a camel ride and a short but sweet sand boarding session. Ideal for anyone with a short window to experience Dubai’s desert, this tour checks all the boxes.

Evening Red-Dunes Desert Safari Dubai by OceanAir Travels Arrow

This full-day desert safari packs adventure in, making it possible to experience the best of the desert in just a day. The dune bashing is great, but it’s the sand surfing that’s the real highlight. Guides show you how to soar down the dunes, before everyone piles back into the Land Cruiser and heads to the desert campsite. Anyone with leftover energy can head to the camel rides, but there’s henna painting and shisha pipes waiting on the colorful Arabian carpets, too.

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15 Best Desert Safaris in Dubai You Can’t Go Wrong With

It’s sleek and modern but Dubai is hiding an abundance of heritage beneath those shiny skyscrapers, malls, and luxury hotels. A short journey into the United Arab Emirates inland and you’ll find swathes of red sand dunes that gift you with rip-roaring adrenaline pursuits, exotic desert wildlife, and a glimpse into traditional Bedouin culture.

The most exciting way to experience this sprawling desert-scape for yourself is to book a safari tour in Dubai!

If you’ve already read my 4 days in Dubai itinerary then perhaps you’re already feeling inspired to tap on your own trip to the Dubai desert. Now, to help you make that dream reality, I’ve rounded up the best desert safaris in Dubai that you can book right now!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Quick Lockdown of the Best Dubai Desert Safaris

Whether you want to take the backseat or grab the reins and drive your own quad bike or dune buggy, I’ve rounded up the most popular, most adventurous, and most unique desert safari tours in Dubai.

Among the safaris I have collated, you will find options suited for solo adventurers, couples, friends, and families. There is something for everyone to enjoy so all you have to do is pick the one that most appeals to you and press ‘book’! 

MY TOP 5 PICKS FOR THE BEST DESERT SAFARIS IN DUBAI

• Overall Best Dubai Desert Tour: Premium Red Dunes, Camel Safari, & BBQ at Al Khayma
• Most Budget-Friendly Safari Tour in Dubai: Morning Desert Safari with Sandboarding & Camel Ride
• Most Luxurious Desert Safari Tour in Dubai: Dubai Private Night Safari & Astronomy
• Most Adventurous Dubai Desert Safari: Hot Air Balloon, Desert Safari, Quad Biking, and More
• Best Overnight Dubai Desert Tour: Red Dunes and Camel Safari with Overnight Camp

Keep reading to know more about each tour and to find some more desert safaris in Dubai to choose from!

15 Best Desert Safaris in Dubai

A quick note to say that most tours include pick up and drop off from your hotel or a chosen location in central Dubai. I have specified any exceptions to this rule. Your pick-up time is generally an hour before the tour start time. The exact time will be communicated with you at the time of booking.

Do check the terms carefully to ensure that the area where you stay in Dubai is covered in the transfer service. Bear in mind that religious holidays such as Ramadan do affect certain elements of the tours such as the cultural performances and dances. 

Hold onto your hat, now for the full desert safari guide! 

Most Popular Desert Safaris in Dubai

The following 5 listings are the most popular desert safari tours in Dubai based on the opinions of previous customers. These tours offer a balanced blend of adrenaline and culture and each has various additional extras if you want to personalize your tour. 

1. Dubai: Premium Red Dunes, Camel Safari, & BBQ at Al Khayma

Price range: $$ Duration: 7 hours  Meals: BBQ buffet  Highlights: Dune bashing, camel safari, sandboarding, falconry show

An excellent all-rounder tour, this desert safari takes you across the Lahbab Desert where you will experience the thrill of dune bashing. Once you’ve worked up an appetite you will be taken to the Al Khayma Desert Camp for an evening of relaxation and further activities.

A short camel ride is included in this tour and there is the option to add a second ride and feed the camels yourself. You are also invited to partake in a spread of cultural activities including henna painting, meeting the resident falcons, and watching a traditional dance performance. 

Additional add ons include the chance to go quad biking or expand the dune bashing to a longer duration. The meal included is a BBQ buffet but another upgrade gives you the choice to receive VIP table service. 

Setting the precedent for most of the tours on this list, the excursion includes your pick up and drop off from your chosen hotel by a licensed desert guide in an air-conditioned 4X4 Land Cruiser. Lasting 7 hours in total, the tour usually starts at 3 pm.

Considering the inclusions, tour duration, price point, and customizations, I consider this to be the best Dubai desert safari in terms of the overall experience. 

Customer review: “This excursion was a 10/10 experience!!! It was well worth every coin, most especially the dune bashing. Mansoor Manz was such an amazing host, if you are able to request anyone request him! He went above and beyond to make sure this experience for my family was special- the drive to the desert was accompanied with a full on tour, facts and history about the UAE, and good humor mixed in it all. This is a must book!” – Ahlam, May 2021

2. Dubai: Red Dunes Safari, Quad Bike, Camel Ride & Sand Board

Price range: $ Duration: 4 hours  Meals: None  Highlights: Dune bashing, camel safari, sandboarding 

This Dubai desert safari is essentially a condensed version of the first tour on my list. The shorter time span (and subsequent reduction in price) means that this one is ideal for those on a shorter stay in Dubai or who are on a tighter budget.

The dune bashing aspect of the safari will last around 40 minutes after which you can enjoy a short camel ride and a spot of sandboarding. If you’d rather not take part in this then you can simply relax and soak up the landscape. There are plenty of opportunities to take photos during the safari. 

Starting times vary from 8 am, 9 am or 10 am in the morning, and 3 pm in the afternoon which means that you will catch the sunset before you depart. Again, you will be collected from your hotel or desired location.

As with the first tour, this safari offers a couple of customization options. Those include upgrading from a shared tour to a private tour and adding quad biking if you wish.

However, there is no inclusion for food with this excursion so ensure that you eat well prior to leaving and pack some snacks to keep your energy levels up.

Customer review: “This tour was exactly what we paid for! Nabeel, our tour guide, was great with pictures and super fun in the safari ride! He was very attentive and communicative. The camel ride was amazing and I was happy that the camels look cared for. Would recommend this to anyone looking for a desert experience.” – Paola, April 2021

3. The Sunriser: 4-Hour Sunrise Safari from Dubai

Price range: $$ Duration: 4 hours  Meals: Breakfast picnic  Highlights: Sunrise in the desert, falcon show

If you’ve ever fantasized about witnessing the sunrise above the Arabian Desert, then this is the best Dubai desert safari for you.

Once you’ve got the early pick-up out of the way (don’t worry, you can snooze in the car) your licensed guide will whisk you away to the remote sand dunes where you will watch the horizon glow with the first rays of sunshine. 

As the sun makes its final ascent you will be invited to take your seat for an Arabian breakfast picnic while you watch the falcon show. There will be plenty of time to ask questions about the desert lifestyle and customs, and you will gain heaps of trivia about the birds of prey during this tour.

This option is perfect for the culturally curious and those with an interest in wildlife – and early birds, it goes without saying. 

This sunrise safari is perfect for bucket listers, photographers, and couples seeking one of the most romantic activities that the UAE can provide. But please note that this tour does not include dune bashing or any other extreme activities. The tour starts at 4.45 am, which means pick up is around 4 am. 

Customer review: “We were picked up from the port on time. The guides prepared a great breakfast for us in the desert and we could calmly wait for the sunrise. Even if the falcon show was a typical tour program, it really fascinated us. However, this only took about 10 minutes. Dune bashing with the pick ups was also a lot of fun and we can only recommend the trip!” – Theresa, December 2019

4. Dubai: Morning Desert Safari with Sandboarding & Camel Ride

Price range: $ Duration: 4 hours  Meals: Light snacks or brunch (optional) Highlights: Dune bashing, camel safari, sandboarding 

If sunrise is pushing you too far out of your comfort zone then how about a more leisurely safari with the option to add brunch? This desert safari combines the rush of dune bashing and sandboarding in the Dubai desert with the opportunity to experience the landscape in tranquility before the afternoon tours arrive. 

Once you’ve had your fill of adrenaline your guide will take you to Al Khayma where you will be greeted with traditional Arabic coffee (Gahwa), dates, and other sweets. Once at the camp you will have the chance to meet and ride the local camels and learn about the Bedouin way of life.

If you want to indulge in the traditional Arabian brunch then this will take place upon completion of the safari quest, at Al Khayma Heritage House in the Al Fahidi Historical District. 

This safari offers four morning start times of 7.30 am, 8 am, 9 am, and 10 am. However, there is also the opportunity to book an afternoon slot at 3 pm or 3.45 pm which will conclude with golden hour. Again there is the option to add quad biking to your session.

This is the best Dubai desert safari for those on a budget who still want to experience a bit of everything. For those seeking luxury, you can select the private tour version of this excursion. 

Customer review: “Bash, our guide picked us up right on time, then he drove us to the desert and during the ride he showed us some attractions and told us about the history. Sand duning was fun but you shouldn’t do it if you have motion sickness. Sand boarding and the camel ride were a nice experience, would definitely recommend!” – Sarah, April 2021

5. From Dubai: Red Dunes and Camel Safari with Overnight Camp

Price range: $$ Duration: 17 hours  Meals: Light snacks, BBQ buffet, breakfast  Highlights: Dune bashing, sandboarding, camel safari, camping overnight in the desert, sunset, and sunrise 

Now that you’re all warmed up with the first couple of tours, how about upgrading your desert safari to a camping adventure? Surely the most immersive safari tour in Dubai, this option gives you the chance to live the real desert life by spending a night in a Bedouin tent!

Following your hotel collection, you will journey to the desert and enjoy a sequence of dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding. If you so wish you can also add quad biking at this stage for an additional fee.

After all the excitement you will be offered Gaymat (Arabic sweets) and Chai (Arabic tea) before making yourself comfortable to observe the sunset in the camp. 

You will spend the night sleeping in a Nawar, a Bedouin-style bed housed within a tent, beneath a quilt of stars. But before you hit the hay you will share a BBQ feast while you watch Tanoura dancing and belly dancing displays.

There is also the option to smoke shisha and meet the resident falcons, and ladies may participate in henna painting.

You will start your second day by rising early to undertake a camel trek through the dunes to the nearby sunrise spot. Before returning to Dubai bright and early, you will tuck into a freshly cooked Arabian breakfast. The tour starts at 3.30 pm and is excellent value for what you receive. 

Customer review: “Unbelievable from start to finish. I was with the team leader Rav, and he just crushed the dune bashing. The camp in the desert was lovely, the bed and tent they had prepared too. MUST DO in Dubai, like seriously. Worth all your money….. And more!” – William, May 2021

Best Dubai Desert Safaris for Adrenaline Junkies

Did the first 5 tours pique your interest, but would you say you’re a self-confessed daredevil seeking something even more adventurous? In that case, I’m sure one of the following desert safari tours in Dubai for adrenaline junkies will satisfy your thirst for thrills!

6. Dubai Evening Desert Quad Bike Adventure and BBQ Dinner

Price range: $$ Duration: 7 hours  Meals: BBQ buffet Highlights: Quad biking, Tanoura and belly dancing show

Hang on tight, very tight, this exhilarating desert safari invites you to rev up and tackle the dunes yourself on the back of your own quad bike.

Prior to starting the Dubai desert tour, you will receive a comprehensive safety briefing about how to drive and control your vehicle. Your professional guide will then embark across the red dunes as you follow courageously in their stead. Each quad bike is designed to carry one rider, there is no option to ride pillion. 

After exhausting yourself with this high octane activity you will be presented with a shisha and Arabic-style BBQ dinner. For entertainment, you can look forward to a cultural display of Tanoura and belly dancing. There is also the opportunity to enjoy a brief camel ride in between relaxing in the camp. 

The tour starts at 3.15 pm and comes as both a shared tour and the possibility to upgrade to a private tour. 

Customer review: “Karnain was great! He was a great driver and very informative. As we were driving to our location he made great suggestions on what to do while in Dubai on vacation. He took very nice pictures and videos and took our safety seriously. I would definitely want him as a driver again!” – Alexis, May 2021

7. Dubai Evening Dune Buggy and BBQ Desert Adventure 

Price range: $$$ Duration: 7 hours  Meals: BBQ  Highlights: Dune buggy experience, sandboarding, Tanura and belly dancing show

If quad biking isn’t for you but you’re looking for a more daring way to experience the Dubai desert then a dune buggy is the perfect compromise. This desert safari provides two-seater buggies so you can buddy up with your travel mate or go solo.

Safety is paramount and each buggy is equipped with a full roll cage and a full safety harness. Before your guide unleashes you on the dunes they will provide a full safety briefing to give you the confidence to tackle the giant dunes. 

The dune buggy expedition lasts one hour after which you will disembark at the desert camp and feast on a lavish desert BBQ while the sun sinks into the horizon. Make sure you grab the opportunity to surf down the dunes before the desert is plunged into twilight.

You will spend the rest of your excursion being entertained by an Arabian dance performance and sharing stories with the desert residents. Female guests may have a customary henna tattoo, the perfect souvenir of a wonderful Dubai desert tour. 

The starting time for this tour is 3.15 pm. Children are welcome on this tour but those younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 

Customer review: “The excursion was perfect, the activities offered as well as the dinner with shows really lived up to our expectations! Special mention for our guide Niaz who was really brilliant, caring and great advice. I highly recommend this excursion and especially this guide which will make you enjoy your stay in Dubai in the most beautiful way.” – Nicolas, January 2021

8. Dubai: Self-drive Guided Desert Adventure by 4WD Dune Buggy 

Price range: $$$ Duration: 1-2 hours  Meals: None Highlights: Self-driving your own customized dune buggy

Cranking up the volume a notch, this tour invites you to take charge of your own Polaris XP 1000 customized 4WD dune buggy. Pay attention while making your reservation as there are several variations available to suit your requirements.

For example, you may choose a one-seater, two-seater, or even a four-seater if you wish to turn this into a family bonding experience! You also have the option of a one or two-hour experience. 

From behind the wheel, you will explore the most breathtaking desert and mountain areas in the whole of the UAE, such as Big Red, Pink Rock, and Fossil Rock. The buggies are top-notch and you will be fully kitted out with a helmet, goggles, and gloves. 

Children from age 10 are permitted to ride in the buggy but the minimum age to drive the vehicle is 15. You must take your passports or ID in order to proceed with this hair-raising tour. Tour start times are typically 6.30 am, 7.30 am, 8.30 am, 3.30 pm, 5 pm and 5.30 pm depending on the selected tour.

Customer review: “If you’re into driving then just go for it. The buggies are powerful and fun to drive, it’s not that cheap Chinese buggy you can rent as a tourist in other places. I had Jamie and Adriaan as guides and they did a great job. I’d recommend two hours tour and no passenger, so you can enjoy all of it yourself.” – Alexander, April 2019

9. Dubai: Self-drive 2000cc Ranger-Dune Buggy

Price range: $$$ Duration: 4-6 hours Meals: BBQ dinner (for 6-hour tour) Highlights: 50-minute drive in a customized desert buggy 

If you want to go even faster then this spine-tingling self-drive adventure might be the best Dubai desert safari for adrenaline junkies. Your customized ‘ranger’ buggy enables you to get even closer to the dunes and feel every twist and turn as you navigate your way through the desert. 

These buggies accommodate one or two passengers so you can book this activity as either a solo driver or as a duo. The driver must be aged 16 or over and an adult over the age of 16 needs to accompany those between the age of 10 and 15. 

There are two time durations available. However, regardless of whether you book the 4 or 6-hour tour the total drive time is 50 minutes. Both tours also include the provision to try sandboarding and take a short camel ride.

The 6-hour option (starting at 3 pm) includes the cost and time for dining on a desert BBQ dinner and additional activities within the Al Khayma Camp. Only soft drinks are provided to those who opt for the 4-hour tour (starting time at 7.45/8.45 am).

Customer review: “This was one of the best experiences I have ever had! The tour had everything, a buggy ride, camel ride, falconing, henna tattoo, dance shows and barbeque dinner. The highlight was the buggy tour though, absolutely incredible feeling! Nabeel, our guide was extremely friendly and welcoming. Thank you again for such a memorable experience!” – Felix, February 2020

10. Dubai: Hot Air Balloon, Desert Safari, Quad Biking, and More

Price range: $$$ Duration: 5 hours Meals: Breakfast  Highlights: Sunrise hot air balloon flight, quad biking, camel safari 

Packing in adrenaline left, right and center, this tour starts with a sunrise hot air balloon over the dunes and concludes with quad biking and camel riding across them! 

Subject to the weather conditions your flight will last 45-60 minutes and enable you to appreciate sunrise from a whole new perspective. There’s no time for jelly legs because the second you land you will plunge straight into a thrilling quad bike ride before the bulk of the morning tours arrive.

You also have the pleasure of riding a camel and sometimes there is the option to ride a horse too. Not forgetting meeting the falcons of the traditional Bedouin camp and diving into a gourmet Arabic breakfast.

This is the best desert safari in Dubai for adrenaline junkies who want to experience the majesty of the red dunes from all angles. It’s perfect for couples and families, with children over the age of 5 permitted to take part.

There is no dune bashing in this offering however the other inclusions more than make up for it and the quad biking is automatically included at booking. 

As hot air balloon flights must depart early to beat the wind, the start time of this activity is 3 am.

Most Unique Desert Safari Tours in Dubai

For the final section of my guide to the best Dubai desert safaris, I’ve chosen 5 tours that offer something utterly unique.

The following tours are preoccupied with showcasing the heritage, culture, nature, and wildlife of the desert and sustainable tourism. None of these excursions include dune bashing but they all offer something remarkable in its place. 

11. Heritage Desert Safari from Dubai

Price range: $$$ Duration: 7 hours  Meals: Dinner Highlights: Vintage Land Rover transportation, tour of Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, bread making experience 

This safari tour in Dubai is radically different from the others. First of all, you’ll notice that your vehicle is a vintage, open-air 1950’s Land Rover rather than a modern 4X4.

As I explained, there is no dune bashing in this tour but rather the safari focuses on the heritage of desert culture and the exotic wildlife that resides in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

This is a 225 square kilometer (87.1 square miles) natural reserve which limits the number of tour operators who are permitted to organize trips here. This means that with minimal impact on the environment you can see what the region would have looked like centuries ago. In fact, another wonderful factor about this safari tour is that a contribution is made directly to the reserve when you book your place. 

After taking an informative tour through the conversation reserve you will relax at an evocatively lit Bedouin camp and immerse yourself in activities such as camel rides, henna artistry, shisha, and befriending the falcons.

Another unique feature that this tour offers is that you will learn how to prepare a local bread recipe that has been carefully handed down through the ages. The tour starts at 2.30 pm and your booking includes your dinner beneath the stars. 

Customer review: “Fantastic from start to finish. The guides really cared about the experience they were delivering and all felt very authentic and premium. Particularly liked the awareness of sustainability of the experience by not offering dune bashing, sticking to the tracks and not using plastic bottles, rare to see in Dubai!” – Max, December 2020

12. Dubai Private Night Safari & Astronomy

Price range: $$$ Duration: 5 hours Meals: 3-course dinner Highlights: Vintage Land Rover transportation, twilight desert walk, astronomy session

If you’re waiting for me to share the best desert safari in Dubai for a romantic date night then this is the one you’ll want to surprise your other half with. Pick up for this unique night safari is 5.30 pm.  

Each booking covers two guests and you will venture into the desert after sunset in an open-top 1950’s Land Rover. After a drive through the cooling dunes, you will participate in a twilight nature walk where you might see anything from creepy crawlies to fauna.

Night vision binoculars are provided so that you can see the full might of the desert-scape and its nocturnal residents. This activity is led by a highly trained conservation guide with extensive knowledge of ecotourism and the local environment. 

In addition to the wildlife safari, you will take part in an astronomy session with a professional telescope which allows you to fully comprehend the star-studded sky. Your evening concludes with a decadent three-course dinner at an exclusive camp within the desert retreat of the local royal family. As you see, this safari oozes romance!      

Customer review: “We had the best guide ever, speaking Russian German and also English fluently!! Amazing Tour, very entertaining and interesting you get a lot of impressions about the beduines. I really recommend this tour if you like to a different view of Dubai. The food was also really tasty. we started from 6.30 pm until 12 pm, be prepared to wear comfortable shoes.” – Ngan, May 2021

13. 1 or 1.5 Hour Horseback Dubai Desert Park Ride

Price range: $$ Duration: 1-1.5 hours  Meals: None Highlights: Experience the desert by horseback, washing and tending to your horse, possibility to see native wildlife 

Giddy up, this is one of the best desert safaris in Dubai for horse lovers! You will mount your friendly horse and follow your guide through the dunes of the National Mushrif Park.

Along the way, you can keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife that resides in the region such as the desert fox. Even without spotting any fauna, the scenery is breathtaking and you can soak up nature far from the sounds of the dune bashing 4X4s and quad bikes.        

Upon conclusion of the trek, you will be invited to wash and groom your companion horse and give them a reward of carrots. The tour is best suited for those with some horse riding experience as at times you will trot and canter. 

This tour is available at 5.30 am, 6.30 am and 6 am. Please note that unlike most of the other safaris on this list, for this activity you will need to arrange your own transport to and from the horse stables.

Customer review: “Amazing experience in the nature, beautiful surrounding, great horses. All very organized and professional.” – Julia, May 2017

14. Dubai: Private Falconry Safari

Price range: $$$ Duration: 5 hours  Meals: Luxury breakfast (optional) Highlights: 1.5 hours of falcon handling, nature drive  

Designed for those with a keen interest and appreciation for birds of prey, this safari provides you with the bucket list experience of training a falcon to fly from your own wrist.

During the course of the private safari, you will also interact with an owl and an eagle. The falconry experience of the tour lasts 1.5 hours and is led by a professional falconer who is passionate and committed to taking care of the beautiful creatures. 

For the remainder of the tour, you will be able to enjoy a nature drive by 4X4 during which you will be poised to spot the likes of houbara bustards, Arabian oryx, and sand gazelles. As you can imagine, this is the best desert safari in Dubai for those who possess an eagle eye of their own! However, your qualified guide will do his/her best to help you detect the wildlife. 

As the tour starts at 5 am you may want to upgrade the experience to include a luxury breakfast. At least two participants are required to book this unique tour. 

Customer review: “Wonderfully personal experience among the untouched dunes of the Desert Conservation Reserve: for nature lovers interested in learning about falconry and the flora and fauna of the Arabian Peninsula, this tour offers an authentic, hands-on experience with a knowledgeable guide. Rather than watching birds being flown, you become a trainer yourself and get a taste of how various birds of prey hunt and form working bonds with falconers. Worth the extra Money.” – Viktoria, December 2019

15. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve 5-Hour Tour with Breakfast

Price range: $$ Duration: 5 hours  Meals: Breakfast  Highlights: Chance to spot native wildlife, expert knowledge from conservationists 

For the final tour on my list, you will head deep into the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. As you observe the likes of native birdlife, Arabian Oryx, desert monitors, and free-roaming gazelles, your safari guide will nourish your exploration with a wealth of knowledge about the flora, fauna, and history of the first national park in the United Arab Emirates.

It’s not guaranteed but if you’re really lucky you might even catch a glimpse of the rarely sighted Gordon’s wildcat.

Children over the age of 10 are welcome on this tour and it’s the perfect activity for solo wanderers, families, or couples alike. The start time for this tour is a languid 7.30 am and it concludes with a decadent breakfast at the Al Maha Desert Resort before you return to the city.  

Customer review: “One of the highlights of our visit to Dubai, our driver and guide, Peter, was an accomplished naturalist. He quickly picked up on our interest in birds and wildlife and we had some great views of oryx, two species of gazelle, numerous LBJ’s and fine views of a Pallid Harrier, all from the comfort of a splendid silver Range Rover. The desert landscapes are spectacular and the stop for a relaxed breakfast was a welcome break at the unexpectedly luxurious Al Maha “desert resort”.” – Philip, December 2020

Useful Info for Planning Your Trip to Dubai

Where to stay in dubai.

There is no shortage of places to stay in Dubai, from high-end luxury hotels to more affordable options. Contrary to belief, you can find good deals on hotels in Dubai, no matter your budget.

The most important thing to keep in mind when booking your hotel room is the location. Dubai is huge and spread out, so you want to make sure you’re staying in an area that’s close to the sights and attractions you want to see.

Generally speaking, here are the best areas to stay in Dubai:

Deira – If you’re looking for a more traditional Arabic experience, you can’t go wrong with Deira. It’s also one of the more affordable areas in Dubai.

Bur Dubai – This is a great option if you want to be close to the action. Bur Dubai is home to many of the city’s best hotels, restaurants, and nightlife venues.

Palm Jumeirah – If you’re looking for a luxurious and relaxing vacation, look no further than Palm Jumeirah. This artificial island is home to some of Dubai’s most exclusive hotels and resorts.

Downtown Dubai – This is the best area for those who want to be close to the city’s most popular attractions, like the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall.

Dubai Marina – This is a great option if you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. The Dubai Marina is home to many restaurants and bars, as well as a beautiful waterfront promenade.

In case you’re curious to know more about each area with pros and cons and hotel recommendations, make sure to check out my in-depth article about  where to stay in Dubai .

If you want to make your Dubai trip even more memorable, read my post about the best hotels in Dubai with Burj Khalifa views !

Do you prefer staying in Airbnbs rather than hotels? Then you need to check out my article about the best Airbnbs in Dubai , including beautiful Marina views, penthouses, and many more!

If you’re in a hurry, here are my top recommendations for different budgets.

LUXURY – Atlantis the Palm

Located on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah Island and enjoying a private sandy beach, the 5-star Atlantis offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It provides an underwater aquarium and complimentary access to the Aquaventure water park and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.

MID-RANGE – Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina

Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina has a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a bar in Dubai. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, room service, and currency exchange for guests.

BUDGET – Gulf Inn Hotel Al Nasr

Gulf Inn Hotel Al Nasr (formerly Roda Links Al Nasr) features a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a shared lounge in Dubai. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace. Gulf Inn Hotel Al Nasr offers a continental or buffet breakfast.

How to get to Dubai

Being the biggest hub between Europe and Asia and one of the busiest airports in the world, Dubai International Airport (DXB) welcomes a huge number of airlines and connects the city with the rest of the world.

Located only 15 km (9.3 miles) from Downtown Dubai, flying to DXB is the most convenient way to get to the city. Once you land, there are several ways to get into the city center: you can take a taxi, the metro, or even the bus.

Although DXB is the biggest airport in Dubai, you can also choose to fly to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). This airport is located in the Jebel Ali area, about 50 km (31 miles) from Downtown Dubai, and it mostly handles cargo flights and low-cost carriers.

How to get around in Dubai

Dubai is an enormous city and getting around can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re not used to such big metropolises. The good news is that there are plenty of options when it comes to transportation.

Public transportation – Dubai has both metro and public bus systems in place. Although the metro is the most efficient way to get around, it only covers certain areas of the city. The bus system, on the other hand, covers a larger area but it can be quite slow during rush hour. This is definitely the cheapest way to get around Dubai, however, it can be pretty time-consuming.

Taxis – Taxis are widely available in Dubai and they’re relatively affordable, especially if you’re splitting the fare with someone. Your best bet is downloading the Careem app, which is similar to Uber, and lets you order a traditional Dubai taxi or a private vehicle.

Car rental – If you want the freedom to explore Dubai at your own pace, then renting a car is the way to go. Just keep in mind that traffic can be pretty bad during rush hour, so you might want to avoid driving during those times.

Best time to visit Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is between November and March when the weather is cooler and more bearable. This is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect higher prices and bigger crowds.

If you don’t mind the heat, then you can visit Dubai during the summer months (June to August), when temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F). Each and every place is air-conditioned in Dubai, so you can take refuge from the heat indoors.

Just keep in mind that outdoor attractions such as gardens and water parks will be much less enjoyable during this time and it’s practically impossible to swim in the ocean because of the high temperatures.

If you want to avoid the crowds and get cheaper rates, then April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit Dubai. Prices will be lower and the weather will still be relatively pleasant.

Another thing to keep in mind: Ramadan takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar but the exact dates change every year (usually it falls between March and May).

During this time, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and many restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day. Alcohol is also not served during Ramadan. However, nightlife carries on as usual and many hotels offer special rates during this period.

If you’re not Muslim, then you can still visit Dubai during Ramadan, you just need to be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

Planning a trip to the UAE?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about the United Arab Emirates. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• Top 10 Best Areas to Stay in Dubai
• 23 Incredible Dubai Hotels with Burj Khalifa View
• 21 Super Unique Airbnbs in Dubai for Every Budget
• How to Spend 4 Days in Dubai: The Perfect Dubai Itinerary
• 24 Most Beautiful Instagrammable Places in Dubai
• 15 Best Desert Safaris in Dubai You Can’t Go Wrong With
• 88 Best Dubai Quotes & Dubai Captions for Instagram
• Hotel Review: Fairmont The Palm, Dubai
• Hotel Review: Th8 Palm, Dubai
• Where to Stay in Abu Dhabi: 7 Best Areas & Hotels
• How to See the Best of Abu Dhabi in One Day
• 7 Epic Instagrammable Places in Abu Dhabi You Can’t Miss
• Abu Dhabi vs Dubai: Which One to Visit and Why
• Hotel Review: Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
• Hotel Review: The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

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10 best desert safaris in Dubai

By Joan Torres Leave a comment Last updated on April 9, 2024

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No trip to Dubai would be complete without a desert adventure and there’s no better way to explore that sandy realm than with a safari.

But, how to choose which one’s best for you?

Do you want to take to the dunes on a camel, camp out under the stars or float above high above in a hot air balloon?

We’ve rounded up our best desert safaris in Dubai to help you choose , read on to plan your escape. 

In this guide to how to choose the best desert safari un Dubai, you find:

Table of Contents

• Desert safari Dubai cost
• Best desert safaris in Dubai
• Cheap safari
• Overnight camping safari
• Luxurious safari
• Private safari
• Sunrise safari
• Hotair Balloon safari
• Dune bashing safari
• Authentic safari
• Camel safari
• Practical information

Remember to get travel insurance for Dubai Dubai’s health care is terribly expensive, so insurance is a must. IATI Insurance offers different plans, for all budgets. Get your 5% exclusive discount if purchasing via this link

Price of a desert safari in Dubai. How much does it cost?

How much your Dubai desert safari costs is totally up to you and the activities you want to enjoy, there’s really something for every budget.

If you want to save a few pennies you can book a day trip for as cheap as $20, where you can still enjoy driving through the sand dunes, camel rides and a desert barbecue.

If you’re looking for something a little more high end you can enjoy a private desert safari for $280, a luxury adventure for $395 or even a hot air balloon safari for $335.

All you need to do is to decide which you’d prefer!

The 10 top desert safaris in Dubai

The cheapest desert safari un dubai.

Dubai might be known for its lavish events and big spenders but you can still have an epic desert escape without spending too much.

This super budget desert safari will lead you out to the Red Dunes of Al Hibab where you’ll have a go at dune bashing, before heading to a desert camp to enjoy traditional dance shows, a barbecue dinner and a camel ride.

You might be saving money but you’re not missing out on anything. 

Price: $ Duration: 4-7 hours

The best overnight desert safari in Dubai

To get the full desert experience we’d recommend spending a night in this arid landscape, nothing quite beats desert camping under the night sky.

You’ll spend your day enjoying dune bashing and sandboarding and your evening swapping stories as you enjoy dinner around the fire, smoking shisha and taking in local customs such as dancing and henna.

The next morning you’ll have a chance to soak up the sunrise with a traditional camel caravan. 

Price: $$ Duration: 17 hours

The best luxury desert safari in Dubai

If money’s no object, this is the top-rated 5-star desert safari in Dubai, an exclusive experience not many travelers can do.

Live like a king or queen for the day as you head out into the dunes in the Dubai royal family’s car of choice, the Range Rover.

You’ll travel to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to spot local wildlife, watch a falconry display as the sun sets, take a camel ride to your dinner venue before enjoying a  three-course meal in a private cabana at this exclusive royal retreat. 

Price: $$$$ Duration: 7 hours

Best private desert safari in Dubai (night)

Our favorite private safari also happens to be the best nighttime desert safari in Dubai.

Wait until the sun sets before you head out into the desert in a vintage 1950s Land Rover with a set of night-vision binoculars in search of nocturnal animals.

After you’ve enjoyed exploring the cool and quiet nighttime desert, you’ll dine under the stars as you enjoy a three-course dinner, shisha and Arabic coffee at an open-air camp (belonging to a local royal family no less).

Price: $$$ Duration: 5 hours

Best sunrise safari in Dubai

One of the best times to take in this arid desert landscape is early in the day before the sun rises.

You’ll set off on your adventure at the crack of dawn to ensure you get to watch the day begin as the sun crests over the sand dunes.

Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife at the Al Qudra Lakes before you sit down to a traditional Arabic picnic breakfast. 

Price: $ Duration: 4 hours

Best hot air balloon safari

Exploring the desert from the ground is one thing, but taking it all in from above is a totally different (and a once-in-a-lifetime) experience.

You’ll set off first thing in the morning whilst it’s still dark as you head to the Margham Desert where your hot air balloon awaits.

Next, you’ll float up to 4000 feet and watch as the sun rises over your spectacular desert surroundings, and after, enjoy quad biking, camel riding and a gourmet breakfast. 

Best desert safari for dune bashing

There’s little that can beat the adrenaline rush of hurtling up and down a sand dune, you’ll feel like a modern-day Lawrence of Arabia.

You can choose to hit the dunes in a jeep, quad bike, or buggy and you’ll have an hour to get your thrills as you take on the desert landscape.

Those looking for even more of an adventure can tack on sandboarding too. 

Price: $$ Duration: 4 hours

Most authentic desert safari in Dubai

If you want a taste of old-world desert safari charm, this is the trip for you.

You’ll feel as though you’ve been whisked back in time as you hop in your classic 1950’s Land Rovers as you drive through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve spotting wildlife.

You’ll enjoy traditional Dubai activities such as learning to bake bread, falconry demonstrations, camel rides, shisha and henna tattoos before tucking into a delicious dinner under the stars. 

Price: $$ Duration: 7 hours

Best camel safari in Dubai

If you say the words ‘desert safari’ the first image to come to mind is probably of riding across the dunes on camelback, and this is the best camel desert safari to go in Dubai.

You’ll have the opportunity to travel the same way people have been for thousands of years as you climb aboard your trusty stead and trek across the desert – and by sunrise, no less.

Once you’re finished with your ride, you’ll sit down to a light breakfast and sample Arabic coffee. 

Best horseback desert safari in Dubai

Horse lovers are well catered for too and can happily gallop into the desert on a horseback safari.

4x4s and buggies might be the most well-known mode of transport in these parts but there’s nothing quite like getting in the saddle and feeling the breeze in your hair as you ride through the striking desert landscape. 

Price: $$ Duration: 1 hour

Practical information for doing a desert safari in Dubai

What to wear for a desert safari in dubai.

You’ll want to make sure to choose the right clothes for a Dubai desert safari, layers of comfortable, breathable clothing that you can add or remove depending on the temperature because whilst the desert is hot in the day, it can drop to freezing once the sun’s set.

Women are advised to wear modest clothing that covers their knees and shoulders.

The ideal attire would be trousers made of a breathable fabric, a t-shirt and a lightweight shirt or jacket with a scarf for extra layers if needed. 

Dubai desert safari location

It’s approximately 55km from the center of Dubai to the desert so it takes around 35 minutes to reach.

What’s the best time to do a desert safari in Dubai

The best season is November to March, as the weather is much cooler than summertime and more bearable.

Can you go on a desert safari in the summer? You can but of them most run in the late afternoon and evening to avoid the overwhelming morning heat.

More information for your trip to Dubai

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Access blocked sites in Dubai – Remember that, if you want to use Skype, Whatsapp Call or Tinder you will need a VPN. For that, I recommend ExpressVPN, the best and fastest VPN in the market.

More UAE Articles:

• Most authentic restaurants in Dubai
• Dubai Travel Budget Guide
• Dubai off the beaten track
• Where to Stay in Dubai
• VPN for Dubai
• Dubai Itinerary
• North Korean Restaurant in Dubai
• Best tours, excursions and activities to do in Dubai
• Travel Guide to Liwa Oasis and the Moreeb dune

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Best Dubai Desert Safari – 10 Epic Desert Tours in Dubai

Posted on Last updated: May 15, 2023

Planning a desert safari in Dubai but not sure what to expect? You’ve come to the right place!

In this guide I have outlined everything you need to know to plan the perfect Dubai desert safari, including; the best Dubai desert safari tours, activities you can expect to do in the desert, what to bring to the desert and more!

I also go over whether it’s worth doing a desert safari, or if it’s just a tourist attraction. Personally, it took me a six trips to Dubai to convince myself to go on one, and I wish I’d done it sooner!

The desert of Dubai is a unique natural landscape, where golden dunes stretch as far as the eye can see.

It’s not the sort of place you see very often, and in my opinion, no Dubai trip would be complete without a little desert adventure.

So without further ado, let’s dive in and start planning the perfect Dubai desert tour!

• 1 Best desert safaris in Dubai at a glance 
• 2 What does a Dubai desert tour include?
• 3.1 Overall best Dubai desert tour
• 3.2 Best overnight safari in Dubai
• 3.3 Best budget safari in Dubai
• 3.4 Best luxury desert safari in Dubai
• 3.5 Other noteworthy desert tours in Dubai
• 4 Should you do a Dubai desert safari? 
• 5 What to pack for a desert safari in Dubai
• 6 Where to stay for your Dubai desert safari

Beautiful sunset views in Dubai desert

Best desert safaris in Dubai at a glance  

If you’re looking for the best desert safari tours in Dubai, here’s where you should pay attention.

These are some of the most highly recommended and most popular tours out there, so you’re bound to find something to suit you amongst these.

Overall best tour: Dubai Premium Red Dunes, Camel Safari, & BBQ at Al Khayma  –   Boasting rave reviews, this complete tour provides an amazing experience with friendly guides to really make the most of your time in the desert. Includes just about everything you could want.

Best overnight safari: From Dubai: Red Dunes and Camel Safari with Overnight Camp   – All the activities plus spending a night in the desert? A magical experience and totally worth it.

Best budget safari: Dubai: Red Dune Safari, Camel Riding, Sandboarding & BBQ – Travelling on a budget in Dubai doesn’t mean you have to miss out on activities. On this Dubai desert tour, you still get to do most activities, but just at a cheaper price.

Best luxury safari: 7-Hour Platinum Desert Safari from Dubai  – With this tour starting in the day and going through to an evening desert safari from Dubai, it’s an extensive – and exclusive – option.  

Getting ready to go dune bashing in Dubai

The iconic red dunes of Dubai desert

What does a Dubai desert tour include?

Good question. Dubai desert tours are usually jam packed with activities, but not all tours include every activity. There’s a lot of mixing and matching going on.

So if you’re particularly keen on doing certain things, you’ll want to make sure that’s included in your tour. Here’s what you can expect to find.

Dune bashing – This is when you take to the desert sands in a 4×4 with expert drivers, driving at full speed up and down the dunes.

The air is let out of the tyres for extra traction. A modern Dubai experience, which usually all tours include.

Dune bashing in Dubai desert

Our 4×4 jeeps driving on the sand dunes in Dubai

Quad riding – Similar to dune bashing, except you’ll be driving yourself instead of being driven around. It’s super fun and a good way to get the heart pumping!

Sandboarding – Like snowboarding but on the sand. Most desert safaris will include this experience as part of the package. Equipment is provided.

Henna painting – A traditional kind of body art that some tours include. It’s souvenir that you’ll have on your hands for a while.

Me trying my hand at sandboarding in Dubai

Falcon experience – People used to hunt with falcons out here, so it’s cool to see the skills of their trainers and the relationships between them and their birds.

Camel riding – The most traditional way to get around the desert. I wouldn’t say this is a comfortable experience, but it’s not one you’ll forget in a long time!

Hot air balloon – Not cheap, but really adds the magic to an already stunning experience.

Enjoying a camel ride in Dubai desert

Seeing the sunset in the desert – Actually magical. There’s something about the desert scenery that really suits a sunset. Luckily there are a lot of evening desert safaris from Dubai that provide this spectacle.

Barbecue dinner in the desert – Many of the tours include a dinner at the end of the day, where you’ll be served food in a traditional Bedouin camp. Some include a traditional performance of music and dance.  

Spend a night in the desert – For a complete experience, nothing beats staying overnight in the desert. The sunset is only matched by the sunrise.

Bedouin Oasis Camp, where we did our overnight Dubai desert safari

The evening show at our overnight Dubai desert safari

Best Dubai desert safari tours

Overall best dubai desert tour.

Dubai: Premium Red Dunes, Camel Safari, & BBQ at Al Khayma

The most popular Dubai desert tour out there with thousands of glowing reviews from happy customers, and it’s easy to see why.

You’ll get the chance to have an exciting adventure on a full day and evening in the Dubai desert. First up, you’ll be taken out of the city in a 4×4 and embark on a bit of dune bashing. There’s also the option of sandboarding.

Then there’s a camp with traditional snacks, a camel ride across the sand, henna painting and the chance to meet some falcons. As night falls, you’ll enjoy a buffet BBQ and enjoy traditional performances.

Click here to book your Dubai Premium Red Dunes desert safari, or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Going on a camel ride in the desert in Dubai

The jeep for our dune bashing tour in Dubai

Best overnight safari in Dubai

From Dubai: Red Dunes and Camel Safari with Overnight Camp

This is your chance to make the most of your time in the Dubai desert: by spending the night under the stars. Once you’re in the Lahbab Desert, you’ll be able to do some quad biking and dune bashing over the sands.

Afterwards, you can try out sandboarding too (fun!). Then it’s on to your campsite for the night, followed by a camel ride to watch the sun set over the dunes.

Back at the camp, there’ll be traditional dance and a lavish dinner to enjoy. Sitting around the campfire and listening to desert stories is a memorable way to end the day.

Plus, just imagine the iconic Dubai Instagrammable shots you’ll get in the desert at night!

Check out prices and availability for your overnight desert safari in Dubai here, or check out the calendar below!

The tents at Bedouin Oasis Camp, where we slept during our overnight desert safari in Dubai

The pool at Bedouin Oasis Camp – the camp for our Dubai desert safari

Best budget safari in Dubai

Dubai: Red Dune Safari, Camel Riding, Sandboarding & BBQ

Not all things have to cost big bucks in Dubai – in fact this desert safari is affordable and still offers up a lot.

First of all, you’ll be driven out into the desert in a land cruiser, after which you’ll have a go at some dune bashing.

Then it’s time for some sandboarding over the dunes, before heading out to watch the sunset at a Bedouin camp. There’s also the opportunity for a camel ride and some henna painting in the evening (and with a BBQ dinner).

Super affordable and highly reviewed.

Click here to book your budget desert tour in Dubai, or check out prices & availability below!

One of the camels in our Dubai desert camp

Best luxury desert safari in Dubai

7-Hour Platinum Desert Safari from Dubai

For those of you who like a little more luxury, and you don’t mind paying the price for it, then you’ll enjoy this Dubai desert safari. You’ll be picked up in a Range Rover and then head off-road into the desert.

Your guide will take you to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to see some wildlife and a falconry demonstration.

Then you’ll get to watch the sunset and enjoy a private silver service dinner among the dunes at an exclusive venue.

Don’t miss out, book your luxury desert safari in Dubai here!

Or check out prices & availability for your chosen date below!

One of our cars got stuck in the Dubai desert while dune bashing

Dune bashing in Dubai

Other noteworthy desert tours in Dubai

Dubai: Hot Air Balloon, Desert Safari, Quad Biking, and More

Fancy a hot air balloon ride? Then this is going to be the best Dubai desert tour for you.

It’s not every day that you get to see desert dunes while you’re floating high up in the sky (4,000 feet up high, by the way!) so I would say this is a pretty unique option.

But it’s not only a balloon ride that you’ll get to enjoy; there’s also quad biking and other fun activities to try your hand at.

Click here to book your Dubai desert safari & hot air balloon experience, or check out prices & availability below!

My friend speeding down a sand dune in Dubai with his sand board

Dubai: Evening Desert Quad Bike Tour with BBQ Dinner

For an evening desert tour from Dubai, this one is a great option. You’ll get to escape the city in an air-conditioned jeep and make your way to the Lahbab Desert.

First up: a spot of quad biking. Unlike dune bashing, you’ll get to drive yourself over the dunes, making for an exhilarating experience.

After that, it’s time to head to a Bedouin camp for a traditional meal as the sun sets – a perfect way to end the day. Evening entertainment includes belly dancing and musical performances.

Check out prices and availability for your Dubai desert quad bike tour here, or in the calendar below!

Bedouin Oasis Camp, where we did our Dubai desert safari

Beautiful desert views in Dubai

Overnight Dubai Desert Safari & Gourmet Breakfast

Here is another option for an overnight experience in the desert. It starts out pretty cool: you’ll be driven out of the city in an authentic 1950s Land Rover.

You’ll spend time spotting wildlife in the beautiful Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, and afterwards head to a Bedouin camp.

Here you’ll watch demonstrations of cultural activities such as bread-making, henna painting and music, before enjoying a delicious dinner under the stars.

On waking you’ll have a traditional breakfast with freshly brewed coffee waiting for you. A great way to start the day!

Click here to book your overnight Dubai desert safari with gourmet breakfast, or check out prices & availability below!

The evening show during our desert safari

The common sitting area at Bedouin Oasis Camp, where dinner is served

Dubai: Sunrise Balloon Flight with Breakfast & Falcon Photo

For early birds who like to seize the day, this morning desert safari from Dubai is truly an unforgettable experience. Be warned though: it really does start early. Before sunrise, in fact.

You’ll head out of the city and into the desert, where a hot air balloon will be waiting for you to take you high above the sand for one epic sunrise.

You’ll be able to spot wildlife in its natural habitat, including the Arabian oryx, and spot green oases dotting the dunes.

After the balloon ride, you’ll be able to enjoy a freshly cooked breakfast before heading back to the city (to hang out by the pool – that’s just me though!).

Click here to book your Dubai desert safari with sunrise flight and falcon experience, or check out prices & availability below!

The decorations at Bedouin Oasis by night

Should you do a Dubai desert safari?  

Totally! A Dubai desert safari is a completely unique adventure, allowing you to experience the wilds of the desert. Even if you’re only in Dubai for a long layover , it’s an activity you should consider!

Not only that, but it gives you an insight into older traditions as well as newer, exciting activities like sandboarding and dune bashing.

You may think that Dubai is all skyscrapers and artificial islands, but when you head out on a desert safari – just 45-minutes drive out of the city – the natural, wide open landscape reveals itself with dunes that seem to go on forever.

If nothing else, it’s an interesting break from the Dubai city life. You can also do a desert safari from Abu Dhabi , but the Dubai ones are usually quicker to get to.

If you really want to make the most of this unique experience, I highly recommend joining an overnight desert safari .

While dune bashing and seeing the desert in general is without a doubt a fun activity, spending a night under the stars is simply magical.

Enjoying the sunset over the red sand dunes of Dubai desert

The desert camp and tents of Bedouin Oasis

What to pack for a desert safari in Dubai

While Instagram may be flooded with photos of girls in flowing white dresses walking on top of sand dunes, that might not necessarily be the most appropriate clothing to wear in the desert.

In fact, you won’t want to be wearing the best outfits of your Dubai packing list for the desert, because you’ll get hot, sweaty and (most likely) very, very sandy.

You should opt for loose, flowing clothes that are ideally breathable, and comfortable enough to move freely in; you shouldn’t be wearing anything that’s going to make you sweat excessively.

You’ll also be in the desert, so a shawl or scarf to cover your head in the heat, as well as your mouth when you’re sandboarding or quad biking, would be a good idea.

When it comes to the colour of your clothing, I would steer clear of black or dark colours; that’s just going to soak up the sun and make you overheat. Go for light colours or white. Sunglasses are a must!

The crew ready to go sand boarding in Dubai desert

Where to stay for your Dubai desert safari

Since most Dubai desert safaris include pick-up and drop-off, it doesn’t really matter where you stay in Dubai . You can choose the area and hotel that best suits your travel style.

I have listed below some great accommodation options in Dubai for every budget.

Budget: Ramada Downtown Dubai   – Overlooking the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, this is a polished, modern property made up of studio rooms, suites and a penthouse.  

Click here to book your stay at Ramada Downtown Dubai!

Mid-range:  25hours Hotel One Central – I spent one night here and loved it. This hotel has an epic rooftop pool with a view of the Museum of the Future (one of the coolest views in Dubai !) and the interior design is truly unique.

Click here to book your stay at 25hours Hotel One Central!

Luxury: Address Downtown Dubai – Among other things, this luxury hotel features an incredible infinity pool with an equally incredible view of Burj Khalifa: the world’s tallest building. The location in Downtown Dubai is prime for exploring top sights, and the spacious rooms offer a luxurious experience.

Click here to book your stay at Address Downtown Dubai!

Enjoying the pool with view over the Museum of the Future at 25hours Hotel One Central in Dubai

Final thoughts on the best Dubai desert safaris

There you have it, the ultimate guide to doing a desert safari in Dubai! Have you ever visited the Dubai desert? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

For me, spending a day exploring the red sand dunes, doing fun activities like sandboarding, dune bashing and camel riding, and then spending the evening eating delicious Emirati cuisine and watching a local show was simply incredible.

Add to it a night spent sleeping under the stars, and you have a one-in-a-lifetime travel bucket list experience.

I really believe everyone should add a desert safari to their Dubai itinerary . Getting out of the city, going beyond the dhow dinner cruises , and seeing a completely unique landscape is an experience you won’t forget.

I hope you have found this guide useful in planning your own Dubai desert tour . I tried to include everything you need to know before visiting, as well as the best tours you join.

Make sure to book your desert tour online beforehand , so you have it confirmed and don’t miss out! If you have any questions about doing a Dubai desert safari, just let me know in the comments below!

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The 5 Best Dubai Desert Safaris [2024 Reviews]

Dubai is one of the hottest tourist destinations in the world, with everything from the tallest skyscrapers in the world, beautiful beaches, and amazing sand dunes!

While many people set apart time to explore the city, many forget about the majesty and excitement the desert offers, too! The best way to venture out into the desert is by going as part of a reputable tour.

You need someone who’s rated highly, is safe, and will make sure you have fun! We have all of the top desert tours in Dubai right here, so don’t go anywhere!

Best Dubai Desert Safaris

Quick answer: the 5 best rated dubai desert tours for 2024.

• Dune Buggy Desert Safari (Morning Adventure) From Dubai
• 4WD Desert Safari Tour with BBQ Dinner and Live Show
• Overnight Dubai Desert Safari trip
• Desert Quad Bike Safari, Camel Ride, Sand Surf, & BBQ From Dubai
• Dubai Desert Safari with Dinner and Alcohol

Dubai Desert Tour Reviews

1. dune buggy desert safari (morning adventure) from dubai.

• Duration: 3 hours
• Departure: Pickup and drop-off included
• Departure Time: Variety Available
• Includes:  Pick-up and drop off in central Dubai, s oft drinks, r iding instructions, s afety gear, d une buggy

One of the best ways to start out the day is with an exhilarating dune buggy ride through the sand! You can experience all that and more with the From Dubai: Dune Buggy Desert Safari (Morning Adventure) !

This 3-hour tour is great if you have a packed schedule and need something that will fit a lot of adrenaline into a more compact amount of time!

With hotel/residential pickup and drop-off available, you don’t have to worry about spending extra time and money on arranging other transportation.

Not only that, but you get to skip the entrance line with a VIP entrance, meaning that you get to head right into the fun. Ideal for both private and small groups, you can take your significant other or the entire family!

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Once you arrive, you’ll get to hop in to a twin-seater dune buggy which is great if one of you doesn’t want to drive or if you just want to experience it with someone else.

This off-roading is incredible, thanks to how expansive the desert is and the varying peaks/dips in the dunes. This makes for an exciting excursion great for all experience levels.

Each one is designed with your safety and mind – complete with a full roll cage, comfortable bucket seats, and a full safety harness. Not only that, but your guides will complete a safety briefing beforehand and ensure everyone’s buggies are in good working order.

If you have questions, they’ll answer them and provide you with instructions on how to operate the vehicle through the dunes. They also include soft drinks and water, so you stay well-hydrated the entire time.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. 4wd desert safari tour with bbq dinner and live show.

• Duration: 6 hours
• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off available
• Departure Time: 2:30 to 4:00 pm (varies)
• Includes: Dune drive, s unset watch, c amel rides,  Henna painting, s and boarding (on a hill behind the camp),  Shisha (hubbly bubbly) corner, f ull buffet dinner, u nlimited soft drinks, coffee and tea,  Shawerma station,  Arabic bread station

Next up, we have a tour that’s known as one of the top-rated adventures in Dubai. The 4WD Desert Safari Tour with BBQ Dinner and Live Show is a magical experience that will give you a bit of insight into some of the fun many locals partake in.

The 6-hour tour will not only take you on a fun spin through the sand dunes, but offer camel rides, Henna painting, sand boarding, and much more!

Depending on the season and demand, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or residence anywhere from between 2:30 pm to 4 pm. Upon arrival, they serve you either a welcome tea or coffee, to ramp up the energy you will surely need!

Begin by heading out to the Arabian desert where you’ll receive a safety briefing and instruction on how to drive the vehicles correctly. Take some time zipping across the vast sea of sand, making sure to drink up the complimentary mineral water to stay hydrated.

Next up, you’ll be able to partake in a camel ride across the dunes and dress up in traditional Arabic wear with photo opportunities. Of course, this is all up to you – you get to fully customize your tour according to the activities that most interest you.

You’ll then head over to an interesting Bedouin campsite located right in the center of this enormous desert, where you’ll get even more activities to choose from! We highly recommend the sandboarding, especially if you’re experienced in board sports!

It hurts much less falling on sand than cement or ice! One of the most popular options is Henna designs, which has grown popular in the “Western world” as well.

Finally, after all that you’ll enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner with belly dancers to entertain as you eat! Flatbread, Shwarma wraps, and much more are available! Oh, and you’ll also get a traditional dessert.

Other Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. overnight dubai desert safari trip.

• Duration: 16 hours
• Departure: Pickup and drop-off is included
• Departure Time: Between 3:30 PM and 4 PM
• Includes:  Desert Dune bashing with professional driver, welcome drink with Arabic sweets, unlimited drinks, Fire Show and Belly Dance Buffet Dinner, Hubbly Bubbly corners, breakfast, Arabic coffee/tea, milk, and dates, sleeping bags, tents, cushion and mattress

Perhaps you’re looking for a more immersive tour that offers more of an in-depth experience of Dubai and the traditional culture. If so, you’re going to love the Overnight Dubai Desert Safari Trip ! It makes for an educational, exciting outing for a couple or for the entire family!

The trip starts out with you and the rest of your group being picked up from your hotel or residence by a luxury Land Cruiser perfect for this type of environment.  The journey out to the desert is a beautiful one, and on the way there, your guide will tell you all about the area’s history and traditions.

Once you arrive, they’ll offer you a delicious welcome coffee or tea which is a nice way to start things out and will give you that boost of energy you need for a day of fun.

Your first activity after drinking your beverage and enjoying some Arabic candies, will be to head out to your dune buggies!

Your professional driver guide will give you all instructions on how to use them as well as a safety briefing.

You’ll have plenty of time to speed around the valleys and hills before participating in a short camel ride. These are quite brief as they don’t want to overwork the camels, while still offering an interesting option for you. Then head over to a traditional Bedouin desert camp. Here, there are even more excursions to enjoy.

As the sun goes down, your guide will offer you and your group the chance to go take some photos at the top of the sand dunes which offer the best vantage point.

Once you arrive back to camp, you’ll be greeted with a delicious international buffet and BBQ dinner as you watch the Arabic Belly and Tanoura dancing.

They’ll provide you will traditional Arabic dress which is always a fun time!Should you choose, you can get Henna art on your hands and feet as well!

When it’s time to sleep, you’ll all be provided with sleeping bags, tents, a cushion and mattress to sleep comfortably under the stars. When you wake up, you’ll start the day off right with a tasty continental breakfast!

4. Desert Quad Bike Safari, Camel Ride, Sand Surf, & BBQ From Dubai

• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Includes:  BBQ buffet (vegetarian and non-vegetarian options), t ransportation by air-conditioned vehicle,  f uel, h elmet,  Arabic coffee,  Henna painting on women’s hands,  Shisha smoking , u nlimited water and soft drinks

While many people are under the impression that to have fun in Dubai, you need bags of money. This is simply not true at all, and the Dubai: Desert Quad Bike Safari, Camel Ride, Sand Surf, & BBQ tour prove that!

This is another 6-hour tour that’s perfect for those looking to get the adrenaline pumping while enjoying some of the area’s traditional culture and customs.

The tour starts out by them picking you up at your hotel or residency, so you don’t have to fret with planning transportation. The air-conditioned vehicle is very comfortable, and the ride out to the desert is quite pleasant as well.

While you ride, your guide will tell you all about the history of the area as well as its unique geography. Once you arrive, you’ll take a break to stretch your legs, use the restroom, drink a cup of Arabic coffee or tea, and listen to the instruction and safety briefing.

They’ll supply each of you with a helmet as well, which we do recommend wearing. You’ll be riding around for an hour through the beautiful, red sand dunes and can choose to follow your leader for the best spots.

Afterward, you’ll take a little breather before you try some sandboarding! These are a ton of fun, even if you’ve never had experience with them before. Just strap them to your shoes and carve down the dunes! No special boots, clothing, etc. necessary!

After that rush of adrenaline, head to the Al Khayma desert camp where you’ll get some more Arabian coffee, sweets, and dates in you for some refueling.

Then, meet the sweet camel you’ll get to ride briefly while admiring the majestic dunes. After taking plenty of photos, sit down and enjoy a mouthwatering BBQ meal while watching Tanoura and Khaliji dance performances with amazing music!

5. Dubai Desert Safari with Dinner and Drinks

• Departure: Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Departure Time:  Variety Available
• Includes:  Air-conditioned vehicle, regional BBQ dinner (Buffet style dining), entertainment, unlimited house beverages (beer and wine)

While all of the Dubai desert tours are an absolute blast, our next one is probably the most festive. Also, if you want to see the desert in both day and night, then this is a great chance to do so!

The Dubai Desert Safari with Dinner and Alcohol tour packs a lot into 6 hours, where you’ll get to learn a lot about their traditions and even participate in some!

Start off by being picked up at your hotel or residence in Dubai by a 4WD or 4×4 vehicle that’s perfect for traversing the desert and uneven terrain while keeping you comfortable.

Make sure to watch out the windows for some wonderful views and listen to the guide’s commentary on the history of the area. They’ll make sure to point out Dubai’s most famous landmarks as well, so you can check them out once back in the city.

Once you reach the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, you’ll take a drive around this tranquil space as the guide tells you the history of the desert in relation to the massive city.

They’ll also fill you in on the local flora and fauna, pointing them out wherever possible. Then, see a falconry display which is quite interesting!

If the weather is being agreeable, you’ll be able to watch the sunset from the top of a sand dune so make sure to take some photos! Once the sun sets, take a short drive over to a Bedouin camp and gather ‘round the campfire as you enjoy a 3-course buffet and unlimited beer and wine.

Please keep in mind that during the holy month of Ramadan and other religious holidays alcohol will not be served.

If you choose, you can also try sand boarding on the dunes, going on a short camel ride, or simply hang out on the comfortable tent cushions and large carpets while watching the dancing performances under the sparkly night sky.

Dubai Travel Guide

Dubai is a modern city of unparalleled expansion. Over a period of 50 years, the population has grown from 60,000 people to 3,188,000. Obviously, with that growth over 98% of the city’s buildings and infrastructure is brand new. Here’s where you’ll find the tallest building, the tallest hotel, and the busiest international passenger airport in the world.

But the history of Old Dubai goes back over 3,000 years and the desert wilderness is only a short drive away. Today, there’s lots for everyone to see and do in this fascinating global supercity.

Airports & Entry

Although the Emirate of Dubai is a small kingdom within a country of fewer than 10 million people, Dubai International Airport is a major transportation hub and the world’s third busiest airport. That means the airport is huge and offers some great facilities. There are 3 terminals and 4 concourses. However, while Terminal 3 is modern and the largest airport terminal building in the world, Terminals 1 and 2 are dated and not so plush.

Inside the airport, you’ll find a broad range of stores and eating outlets—like Costa Coffee, Baskin Robbins, and McDonald’s—many open 24 hours. There’s free Wi-Fi on the “DXB Free WiFi” and “DWC Free WiFi” networks and abundant mobile charging stations. If you require internet access but don’t have a mobile device, there are internet kiosks beside Connect and Global Link (Gate C16).

There are Information Desks near the Duty-Free stores Airside, and assistants wandering around the airport wearing blue polo shirts with a “May I Help You?” logo. You can find 24-hour currency exchange counters in all 3 terminals as well as ATMs.

If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a Children’s Play Area in Terminal 3 Airside. You’ll also find Baby Care Facilities throughout the airport. To gain access, visit one of the Information Desks or ask a “May I Help You?” assistant for help.

For passengers stranded at the airport for a long time, there’s a Health Club with a gym, showers, swimming pool, steam room, and jacuzzi Airside behind the Dubai International Hotel. This is accessed from Terminal 1, Gate 115, or Terminal 3, Concourse 2. For the less health-conscious, there are smoking rooms in Terminal 1 Airside, Gate D12, Terminal 2 Airside, and multiple locations in Terminal 3.

In case of medical emergencies, Medical Care Centers are found in Terminal 1, Gate C13, and Terminal 3, Level 0. There are pharmacies in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 Departures. Muslim prayer rooms are available in the car park and throughout the airport.

The airport is only 3 miles from the center of Dubai and getting there is simple by public transport. To use public transport, purchase a rechargeable NOL Card at the airport. NOL cards are used in Dubai to pay for buses, Metro, water buses, Dubai tram, and parking in RTA car parks.

The most efficient method is by Metro. Starting at 5.30 am and ending at midnight, services run every 10 minutes from Terminals 1 and 3. However, note that on Friday services don’t begin until 1 pm. Note there is a special “Gold Class” carriage at the front of the train if you want a scenic front window view during your journey. There are also designated carriages for women traveling alone and children.

Despite the distance being only 3 miles, the Metro journey to the city center takes 40 minutes. Because many hotels are situated next to Metro stations, it will be better for you to know where your hotel is and to plan your journey to go straight to that station rather than traveling to the city center. The cost is around $2.

The buses are operated by RTA and depart from bus stands opposite all 3 terminals. A special SkyBus service (also RTA) connects the airport directly to the most popular hotels. You’ll need a NOL Card to ride on a bus. Bus services are every 7 minutes during the day and 20 minutes at night. When the Metro is closed, you can still take a bus. The journey takes a minimum of 1 hour and may be much longer if there’s a traffic jam. The journey costs around $1.

The taxi rank is situated in the ground transportation area of the airport. Taxis driven by men are cream-colored, and taxis driven by women are pink trimmed. The ride into the city costs around $42 and usually takes less than 45 minutes. If you’re traveling with kids or elderly people, taking a taxi might be your best option to get quickly and safely to the hotel doorstep.

If you want the freedom of a hire car, note that there are more car rental companies represented at Terminal 1 Arrivals than at Terminals 2 and 3 Arrivals. You’ll need an International Drivers’ License and passport to hire a vehicle. You can hire a car for as little as $25 per day. Note that you may have to deal with traffic jams. I’d recommend using the Metro or a taxi rather than driving yourself in an unfamiliar city.

Planning Tips

Dubai is a popular destination, and the local people do their best to make visitors feel welcome. However, you’re not in Kansas anymore. Here are 5 tips for a trouble-free visit.

Tip #1: Decide what you want to do before planning when to go to Dubai

The weather is super hot in the summer. There’s a good chance you’ll feel uncomfortable on the beach if you try to visit during summer. Spring and fall are the best times to visit to enjoy the beach. And if you’re mainly interested in sightseeing, why not come in winter? However, note that December through February is the high season in Dubai, so the queues will be long.

Tip #2: Buy unique art and crafts

For unique souvenirs and gifts, visit the souks in Deira. This is the traditional market area in the city, and the Deira Gold Souk is famous.

Tip #3: Be careful not to offend with your clothing

Dubai is a liberal city where 70% of the residents are ex-pats. However, it is still an Islamic city. You don’t have to cover your head or wear traditional Arabic clothes (unless you’re visiting a mosque) but you are expected to be respectful. Avoid showing cleavage and midriff (unless in a nightclub or on a beach). Don’t wear super short shorts or skirts in public places where you’re likely to mix with locals, such as the shopping malls and museums. It’s not that it’s against the law…it’s being respectful of local customs and traditions.

Tip #4: Book in advance, especially during winter

Dubai is an especially popular destination. You won’t get into most nightclubs unless you book in advance. Many popular activities, such as going to the top of the world’s tallest building, can be booked in advance to avoid queues. Reputable tour companies offer refunds for tours tickets canceled with reasonable notice, so you’re not risking much when you book in advance.

Tip #5: Avoid visiting during Ramadan OR be patient and thoughtful

The timing of the month of Ramadan changes every year, but for 2020 it is around 23 rd April through 23 rd May. During Ramadan, you will find that many local people slow down and businesses close in the middle of the day for rests or early at night when the staff are due to break their fast. It is prohibited to eat in public during Ramadan, so you’ll only be able to eat in designated areas. You’ll be expected to dress more modestly during Ramadan and be especially polite.

Restaurants & Eating Out

Dubai is a fantastic place to sample Middle Eastern cuisine. Because of its central location in the Persian Gulf, the local fare is a tasty combination of Arabic, Iranian, and Lebanese food.

For breakfast, you could try margoogat. This is a rich vegetable stew with added Arab spices, such as bezar, cumin, and turmeric. Often made with tomato, squash, and eggplant, Dubaites often eat this dish to end their daily fast during Ramadan. Alternatively, manousheh is a popular breakfast dish from Lebanon composed of dough or flatbread topped with Akkawi cheese, olive oil, and za’atar herbs (thyme, oregano, and marjoram). It’s like a kind of pizza! You can sample Lebanese food like this at Enab Beirut , an eclectic food outlet near Al Khazzan Park.

Makbus, also known as kabsa, is a popular rice dish originating in Saudi Arabia and popular in Dubai. The rice, usually basmati, is mixed with chicken, lamb, or seafood and prepared in large pots with plenty of Arab spices, dried lemon, and salt. A popular restaurant to try this traditional rice dish is Al Barza Restaurant and Café on Jumeirah Street.

If you want to eat a traditional Bedouin dish, why not sample some camel milk and eat camel meat? Camel milk is saltier than cow’s milk but lower in cholesterol, richer in protein, and with more iron and Vitamin C. Dubaite chefs like to use camel’s meat in stews and burgers because of its exotic and robust flavor. You can sample camel steaks, kebabs, and chocolate camel milkshakes in Al Bastakiya Restaurant and Café on Al Fahidi Street.

Dubaite people have their own varieties of bread to eat with their meals. These include khameer, which is a date-sweetened bread you can eat on its own or filled with anything from chicken to cheese. Many eat traditional Iranian sangak, which is a leavened flatbread made from wheat. And main dishes are often accompanied by a zesty salad of cucumber, green onions, tomatoes, and mint called tabbouleh.

Speaking of salads, Dubai actually offers a wide range of traditional vegetarian dishes. Kousa mahshi is zucchini or courgettes stuffed with rice. Shirin polo is a delicious rice dish made from nuts, raisins, carrots, and basmati rice. However, be aware that there’s a non-vegetarian version of shirin polo with chicken added. And fatteh is a popular evening dish consisting of bread covered with chickpeas and topped with yogurt and tahini sauce.

For dessert, try kanafeh. This is a Levantine filo pastry coated in honey or syrup and sprinkled with chopped pistachios. Or assidat al-Boubar is a popular pumpkin porridge with almond flour, butter, sugar, milk, and raisins. And you may be offered luqaimat dumplings made from flour, starch, sugar, and cardamom powder and rolled in syrup.

But no meal is complete without gahwa. This is Arabic coffee offered to guests as an essential matter of hospitality. Unlike western coffee, this is seasoned with cloves and cardamom and tastes more bitter than the varieties you may be accustomed to. You may find it served to you in tiny cups without handles from ornate coffee pots.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Despite being an Islamic city on the edge of the desert, Dubai has an extremely wild and active nightlife with modern superclubs and international DJs. It’s like the Ibiza of the Muslim world. However, there are obviously many legal and cultural restrictions to be aware of.

The nightlife in Dubai starts earlier and ends earlier than in European or American cities. Nightclubs open between 10 pm and 3 am, and they are busy throughout this time with a peak around 1 am. All nightclubs and bars must close by 3 am.

All bars, nightclubs, and restaurants serving alcohol are inside hotel complexes. Legally, only hotels are allowed to serve alcohol.

You’ll find the dress code in the more exclusive nightclubs much stricter than in Europe and America. You won’t get in wearing shorts and crocks. You won’t even gain entry wearing jeans. Bouncers typically refuse entry to large groups of men. Mixed groups of men and women and small groups find easier entry into nightclubs.

To get into many clubs, you must already be on the guest list. So, research the clubs you’re interested in before setting out and make arrangements online using the club’s website or Facebook page. The best way to ensure entry is to reserve a table, but this is expensive.

The legal age to drink is 21 and drinking in the street is illegal. Many clubs only admit people over 25. Patrons must show their passport at the entrance to bars or nightclubs to gain entry. Never drive back to your hotel from a bar, club, or restaurant where you had a drink because if there’s an accident, even if it’s not your fault, you’ll be taken straight to jail. The United Arab Emirates has a zero-tolerance policy toward drink driving.

The busiest nights for nightlife are Thursday and Friday (because Friday is the Islamic Sunday). Tuesday is “ladies’ night” when women gain free entry into clubs and are offered discounts and free drinks. Don’t be too judgmental about “economic tourists”, but the nightclubs of Dubai are renowned for the large number of beautiful Russian women guests. Many are there to work in the businesses of this busy cosmopolitan city, but a few are seeking a wealthy spouse or patron.

You’ll find the nightlife where the hotels congregate, such as Medinat Jumeirah and Dubai Marina. The marina is a great place for romantic restaurant dates followed by an evening stroll along the canal.

Because Dubai is such a “Mecca” for businesspeople around the Middle East to escape the restrictions of their own city and let their hair down, you’ll find literally hundreds of nightclubs and bars. Many you will struggle to enter because they all have relatively low capacities and complete to attract the many millionaires and celebrities who frequent the city. Perhaps avoid the most exclusive nightclubs unless you happen to be a billionaire or movie star.

For example, Armani/Privé is one of the most famous clubs in Dubai and located inside the world’s tallest skyscraper. The dress code is super strict, and the entry and drink prices probably more than you earn in a month. If you do gain entry, you’ll find a raised VIP area, a dance floor, and a balcony overlooking the Dubai Fountain. Oh, and the interior décor was designed by Giorgio Armani.

White Dubai is the largest club in the city and sits on the rooftop of the ultra-modern Meydan Racecourse Grandstand. Here’s where you’ll find such famous names as Jason Derulo, Akon, and Nelly. There are incredible views, amazing light shows, and a dance floor open to the stars. But this is definitely a venue you’ll only get into if you’re on the guest list.

A slightly less exclusive nightclub is the N’Dulge Club in the Atlantis Dubai Hotel on the famous Palm Island artificial island. This superclub features an outdoor terrace and the N’Dulge Arena. The Lounge area operates alongside Nobu, a popular restaurant.

If you’re looking for a bar rather than a nightclub, you’ll find a good selection around the hotels of Dubai. For example, the Lock, Stock & Barrel is a large, New-York-style bar with exposed brick walls and pool tables. They offer live music and TV sports channels. The Treehouse is a rooftop bar with a garden terrace and an ambiance aimed at romantic couples. And Fibber Magee’s is a replica Irish pub designed to make you forget you’re in the desert. Everything is authentically Irish, including the live Irish folk music.

Getting Around

Because of the way Dubai has developed over the past fifty years, there are multiple centers dotted all over the city at considerable distances from one another. This means it’s not convenient to get around on foot. If you want to sightsee, you’ll find it easiest to get around by Metro or bus. To use the Metro, buses, water buses, and the Dubai tram you’ll need a rechargeable NOL Card .

Dubai’s modern Metro is fully automated, so you won’t see any drivers. Most of the Metro lines are above ground, so you’ll get great views of the city while getting around. But the Metro doesn’t reach everywhere. In New Dubai, you’ll sometimes have to use the Dubai Tram. And the Palm Island has its own monorail service.

The public bus service is the most affordable option to get around the city. There are 1,500 air-conditioned buses in the city. They go everywhere and run during the night when the Metro has closed.

It’s always an option to hail a taxi. While they aren’t super expensive, they’re pricier than the bus or the Metro. And, to be honest, you can probably get to most places on the Metro quicker than in a taxi. For ultimate freedom, you can always rent a car. To do this, you’ll require an International Driver’s License , passport, credit card, and insurance.

Accommodations

With its artificial islands and glitzy modern skyscrapers, you might expect Dubai to be an expensive place to stay. Yes, there are many exclusive 5-star luxury hotels and billionaires’ penthouses, but there are also affordable hotels and self-catering apartments suitable for travelers on a budget.

As a general rule, the further south you go, the newer and more expensive the accommodation becomes. Since most of the more interesting attractions are to the north, I’d recommend you stay in one of the Old Neighborhoods or nearby Downtown unless you’re only here for the beaches and nightlife and have a fat billfold.

The Old Neighborhoods

The older parts of the city are where you’ll find traditional butchers and bakers, street food, family restaurants, tailors, cobblers, and older residential buildings. These include Bur Dubai, Deira, Karama, Jumeirah, and Satwa.

In this area, you’ll also find the historic district of Bastakiya where old merchants’ mansions built using coral and mud have barjeel wind towers for natural air-conditioning. Some of these interesting structures now contain cultural centers and museums.

These neighborhoods are old, but they’re not run-down. And although they’re the cultural heart of the city, you’ll find accommodation in these areas generally cheaper than the recently developed areas. If you’re planning to self-cater, this is definitely the best area for you because the shops and markets in the old neighborhoods are cheaper than in the new city.

The Novotel in central Deira provides comfy rooms, tennis courts, and both adults’ and children’s swimming pools within easy walking distance of the Deira Metro Station. This is a good choice for solo women, families, and couples. And if you’re self-catering, consider the highly rated J5 RIMAL Hotel Apartments in Deira. The apartments come with living rooms and kitchenettes, so you can prepare your own meals and cut costs. Some of the higher-spec apartments also offer washing machines.

Business Bay and Downtown Dubai

This is the most central area of Dubai situated around the Dubai Mall between Old Dubai and Dubai Marina. It’s a convenient place to stay for visiting all the attractions because it’s so central and close to both Old Dubai and New Dubai by Metro.

In fact, some of the main attractions are found around the Dubai Mall, like the Dubai Aquarium and Dubai Fountain. Here you’ll find a good selection of restaurants, cafés, and bars as well as some of the more upmarket hotels with a lively nightlife.

Check out hotels like the Vida Downtown Dubai , which offers modern rooms a short walk from the Dubai Mall and Metro Station. The Manzil Downtown Dubai is even closer to the Dubai Mall and Metro and located in the liveliest part of Downtown Dubai.

Mall of the Emirates and Surrounding Area

Here you’ll find cosmopolitan Dubai where the mix of nationalities living and working in this area leads to a diverse range of food outlets and stores. It’s central and convenient for Metro Stations.

If you want to stay in luxury, there are plenty of 5-star options in this area, such as the Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel , with its plush rooms and rooftop pool. But there are still budget options, such as Centro Barsha by Rotana , which offers comfortable rooms within walking distance of the Metro and Mall of the Emirates.

This is that shiny area to the south of the city around Dubai Marina and the famous artificial islands of Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island. This is where some of the glitziest buildings of Dubai are found. It’s the place to go if you want luxury hotels with Michelin-starred chefs and gold-plated faucets.

However, since billionaires and celebrities don’t use the Metro, you won’t find using the Metro so convenient in this area. There are no Metro stations on the artificial islands, for example. Dubai Marina does have a Metro station and offers a promenade for keen joggers and cyclists.

This is a great area to stay if you love beaches and want to spend much of your time sunbathing or swimming. But, the whole of New Dubai is a little distant from the main attractions and the lack of Metro stations makes it inconvenient for sightseeing.

The Movenpick Hotel in Jumeirah Lakes Towers is a 5-star hotel, but it’s one of the more affordable ones in this area. It’s in Dubai Marina, so it’s convenient for the Metro and the beaches. But if you want to stat in this area on a “budget”, consider an apartment at Marina View Deluxe Hotel . I use quotation marks around “budget” because this is the most expensive area, so even the budget options are relatively expensive. All suites come with refrigerators, microwaves, and kitchenettes for self-catering options, and it’s only a short walk from the Dubai Marina and Metro station.

Dubai has a hot desert climate. Unless you’re from Death Valley, take what you think of as hot and double it to imagine August in Dubai. You might think that swimming in temperatures of 100 0 F sounds great, but by the end of the day, you may envy lobsters. Midwinter temperatures in Dubai are similar to early summer in Massachusetts.

The weather in Dubai is coldest in January, with an average daily high of 75 0 F and a low of 58 0 F. It’s still sunny in winter. It’s not too cold to hit the beach and it’s a great time to go sightseeing. In April, the average high is 91 0 F and low of 70 0 F, which makes spring a perfect time of year for the beach.

It’s hottest in August, with an average high of 106 0 F and low of 87 0 F. In the afternoon, it’s too hot for the beach, but it’s okay before 11 am and late in the evening. By November, the average high drops to 87 0 F and the low is 68 0 F, making the weather much better for the beach.

Attractions

Many come to Dubai to admire the fantastic modern architecture and amazing monuments built over the past few decades, but the city also has a fascinating history.

The Dubai museum is a great place to visit to learn all about Dubai’s past. The museum is housed inside the Al-Fahidi Fort, which is the oldest building in the city built in 1787. The fort’s construction is entirely traditional using locally sourced materials. The walls are coral blocks cemented together with lime, and the ceilings are made from palm fronds and mud.

Inside the museum, you can learn about Dubaite cultural history through exhibitions like the traditional boats and palm-leaf house with a barjeel wind tower. Discover about Bedouin desert life and coastal pearl fishing. You’ll find the museum in the Bur Dubai area of the Old City.

In the nearby Bastakia Quarter, you can see historic homes built in the 19 th century for wealthy Iranian merchants who came here to deal in textiles and pearls. The traditional buildings are built from coral and lime and feature barjeel wind towers that provided natural air-conditioning.

The best-known house is one built for Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum, former ruler of Dubai. The building is considered an excellent example of Arabian architecture and now houses The Dubai Museum of Historical Photographs and Documents.

On the opposite side of Dubai Creek is the area of Deira. Here’s where you’ll find the traditional souks (markets) including the Deira Gold Souk, the biggest gold bazaar in the world. There are many historic houses in this part of the Old City including Heritage House, an Iranian merchant’s house from 1890, and the Al-Ahmadiya School of 1912, which is the Museum of Public Education.

Among these historic neighborhoods is an amazing modern building called the Dubai Frame . This is a series of galleries exploring the history of Dubai housed inside a building shaped like a 492-feet-high picture frame. The empty frame is intended to “frame” both the Old City and the New City as it frames one or the other depending upon where you stand in relation to the frame.

And there are many new buildings in Downtown and New Dubai, including the iconic Burj al-Arab, which is the world’s tallest hotel. The hotel stands on its own artificial island and is shaped like a dhow sail. Its underwater Al-Mahara restaurant enables diners to view the surrounding sea life while they eat, while the Skyview Bar at the top of the hotel provides fantastic panoramic views of the city.

But the most famous building in the city is the 2722-feet-high Burj Khalifa , which is the tallest skyscraper in the world. Much like outside the Empire State Building in NYC, tourists queue to visit the observation deck on the 124 th floor. To avoid a long wait, buy your “At the Top” entrance ticket in advance.

Many visitors to Dubai come to admire its huge shopping malls. The Dubai Mall is an interesting place to visit not only for the stores. It houses one of the most popular attractions in Dubai—the Dubai Aquarium . The aquarium features 140 species of sea life inside a huge tank on the ground floor of the mall. You can enter the Underwater Zoo to view this tank from underneath through aquarium tunnels.

If you want to get out of the city, the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is an interesting place to visit. There you’ll find bird and animal observation platforms and other attractions. At night, the Dubai Astronomy Group holds stargazing events in the reserve because the remote desert location boasts low light pollution.

Tour Guides

The Dune Buggy Safari is our Editors Choice for the best desert safari from Dubai

Robert Baker

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21 BEST Dubai Desert Safari Tours To Book in 2024

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Categories Middle East , United Arab Emirates

Looking for the best Dubai desert safari trips? With the desert being one of the main attractions in Dubai, there are tons of options to choose from. Check them out! 

The massive Arabian desert, which covers over 2 million square kilometers (!) also extends to most of the UAE and is merely 32 miles (52 km) from Dubai.

Desert safaris are one of the most popular things to do in Dubai , and for good reason. The rolling dunes of the desert provide a breathtaking backdrop for a truly unique experience.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking for a thrill or simply someone who wants to escape the city for a day, a desert safari is the perfect way to explore the desert landscape of Dubai.

You must join a desert safari to venture into the vast area of seemingly endless sand dunes, but with so many options to choose from it can be quite difficult to pick the right one .

In this post, however, you’ll find a very comprehensive list of the best Dubai desert safari tours, so you can make your choice based on your interests, time, and budget . We’ll cover everything from traditional camel safaris to high-adrenaline dune-bashing tours, and give you all the information you need to make an informed decision.

I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide for booking tours when I travel, and I especially recommend them because of their cancellation policy, which allows you to cancel most tours and activities up to 24 hours in advance and still get a full refund.

👉 Interested in other types of tours? I’ve written a whole post about the best tours in Dubai . Check it out!

Table of Contents

The 3 VERY Best Dubai Desert Safari

➤ The Premium Red Dunes Safari is a 7-hour tour, ideal to immerse yourself in the desert by sandboarding down the sand dunes, visit an exclusive desert camp where you can get henna tattoos, try shisha, or witness falconry, go dune bashing, ride camels, and finish your day feasting on a BBQ buffet dinner in the desert of Dubai. 

I personally went on this tour and it was the perfect introduction to the desert.

This tour also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off, coffee, snacks, and unlimited water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Heritage Dinner Desert Safari offers a tour around the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve in a 50’s Land Rover to discover the wildlife, as well as a visit to a camp, where you’ll partake in activities such as camel riding, henna painting, and shisha. You’ll also learn about bread making and enjoy a 4-course meal under the stars. 

This tour also includes : Roundtrip transportation, falcon demonstration, water, coffee, and tea, and a headdress. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Dubai Heritage Desert Safari also takes you to meet the gazelles and oryx at the Conservation Reserve in an open-roof Land Rover, before heading to a Bedouin-style camp where you’ll enjoy a falconry display and traditional dancing, watch the live making of coffee and bread (which you’ll then taste!) and ride a camel, before enjoying a proper dinner of Emirati cuisine. 

This tour also includes : Hotel roundtrip transportation, multi-course meal, all activities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Best Dubai Safari Tours On a Budget

➤ The Half-Day Desert Safari allows you to experience dune bashing and sandboarding in the desert at an affordable price. You’ll also visit a traditional desert camp where you’ll enjoy some sweets, dates, and Arabic coffee, and head to a camel farm to learn about these animals and ride one. 

This tour also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off, mineral water, and soft drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Red Dune Safari offers a 4 or a 7-hour tour into the desert to enjoy sandboarding, dune bashing, and camel riding. You can choose between a morning or afternoon Dubai safari, and if you opt for the longer tour you’ll also visit a Bedouin camp to experience traditional dances, shisha smoking, and henna painting, and finish the day with a BBQ dinner.  

This Dubai Safari tour also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off, bottled water, and sunset photo stop. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Have Fun On a Quad Desert Safari

➤ This Quad Desert Safari tour lasts 4 hours and take you straight to the impressive red dunes, where you’ll go dune bashing, try your sandboarding skills, and even go quad biking in Dubai’s desert. You’ll have the chance to ride a camel after the thrilling activities. 

This tour also includes : Hotel roundtrip transportation, water, and a photo stop. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Evening Dune Buggy Adventure is ideal for thrill-seekers, as you’ll get behind the wheel and drive a sand buggy in Dubai desert. You’ll also enjoy sandboarding, and then visit a desert camp to indulge in the Arabic coffee and dates, and practice the camp’s activities, from henna painting and shisha smoking to feasting on a BBQ buffet dinner. 

This tour also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off, and safety gear. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Sunrise Desert Safari in Dubai

➤ With the Sunrise Desert Jeep Safari Dubai you’ll enjoy a picnic breakfast as you witness the beginning of the day, look for the local wildlife that includes gazelles and Arabian oryx, and visit the impressive Al Quadra Lakes. You’ll also get to practice on a sandboard in Dubai desert and get your snaps during a sunrise photo stop.  

This tour also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off, and light refreshments. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve Tour begins with a drive through the desert in a Range Rover toward the reserve, where you’ll look for the Arabian oryx, the gazelles, the birdlife and, if you’re lucky, get to see Gordon’s wildcat. You’ll also visit a lake and a bird sanctuary within the reserve, and cap off the tour with breakfast.  

This tour also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off, use of binoculars, and a headscarf. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Go On a Balloon Flight Over the Desert

➤ The desert can also be explored from above, and there’s no better way to do it than with a Sunrise Balloon Flight . You’ll soar over the vast desert and spot the wandering camels and other wildlife as the sun rises, marveling at the changing shadows and green oases scattered in the landscape. Upon your return, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast and get a photo with a Peregrine falcon.  

This tour also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ This Hot Air Balloon Ride is a morning desert safari in Dubai that takes you on a sunrise flight over the desert plains and the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where you’ll spot plenty of wildlife, and you’ll also witness a falcon display before enjoying a gourmet breakfast. 

This tour also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off, and beverages. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Sleep in the Desert With an Overnight Safari in Dubai

➤You can also experience camping in the desert in Dubai. The Red Dunes and Camel Safari is a 17-hour overnight desert safari in Dubai that will not only take you dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding but also to a Bedouin-style camp where you’ll feast on a BBQ dinner and stay overnight. 

You’ll witness sunrise during a camel trek the next morning, and enjoy an Arabian breakfast before departing.  

This tour also includes : Roundtrip transportation, accommodation, unlimited water, and soft drinks, and all the activities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Overnight Desert Safari in Dubai will drive you in a vintage Land Rover around the Conservation Reserve to spot the wildlife and enjoy a falcon display. You’ll then head to a Bedouin camp to spend the evening watching live bread and coffee-making, get henna tattoos, smoke shisha and camel ride. 

You’ll spend the night in an Arabic stone dwelling after a substantial dinner, and enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience of waking up in the desert to a fantastic breakfast.  

This tour also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off, accommodation, and meals. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The Ideal Private Tours from Dubai

➤ The Private Night Desert Safari takes your group in a vintage Land Rover to explore the desert after dusk, spotting the wildlife through night-vision binoculars as you drive around the Conservation Reserve, and stargazing at a desert retreat. 

There you’ll scan the sky with an astronomer-guide, feast on a 2-course dinner, and smoke shisha. 

This desert trip from Dubai also includes : Private roundtrip transportation from your hotel. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ You’ll also hop aboard a vintage Land Rover on the Private Heritage Desert Safari , a 7-hour tour which takes you around the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve with a private guide who will explain all about the local flora and fauna as you pass by the wildlife. 

You’ll then head to a desert camp to enjoy a falconry display, dance performances, camel rides, henna painting and a BBQ buffet dinner.  

This tour also includes : Private roundtrip transportation, donation to the Conservation Reserve. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The Most Luxurious Desert Safari in Dubai

➤ To visit the desert with glamour, get the 7-hour Platinum Desert Safari so you can have canapés and sparkling date juice at an exclusive dining venue by a lake and bird sanctuary, as well as watch a falconry demonstration, smoke shisha, and enjoy a sunset camel ride and the magical live entertainment.

This Platinum Heritage Dubai Safari also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Platinum Luxury Desert Safari in Dubai offers a drive through the Conservation Reserve to meet the wildlife, a falconry demonstration, camel riding, and a gourmet 6-course dinner in a private cabana situated in an oasis, which you’ll enjoy under the stars. You’ll also witness a fantastic show and get henna tattoos. 

This VIP desert safari also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Photoshoot in Dubai Desert

To make sure you have spectacular snaps of your time in the desert, book this Dubai Flying Dress Private Photoshoot , which offers a very unique experience. You’ll visit the sand dunes with an experienced photographer, and get to try splendid dresses of different styles for your exclusive photoshoot.

The photographer will ensure the glamorous dress’ train is flying in the air as he snaps your pictures, which you’ll get to take home with you (and post on all your social media!)

This tour also includes : Private transfers, a flying dress, and 10 edited pictures + the original ones. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Combos and Passes to Visit the Dubai Desert

➤ The Dubai Safari with Burj Khalifa combines a trip into the desert with an entrance ticket to the world’s tallest building. After your visit to the Burj Khalifa, you’ll be taken to a camel farm in the desert and a Bedouin-style camp, where you’ll be greeted with Arabic coffee and dates, and get to watch the live performances, smoke shisha, and get henna tattoos, besides enjoying a BBQ dinner. 

This tour also includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off, camel rides, and photo opportunities with traditional costumes. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Dubai Explorer Pass grants you access to several attractions and activities (from 3 to 7, depending on the option you choose) from a list of over 45 possibilities, in which you have several desert adventures in Dubai, as well as regular excursions. 

You’ll also get to enjoy other experiences for much less than if you were to buy the individual tickets. 

This tour also includes : A digital guide to all the attractions. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The City Tour and Desert Safari Combo is the best desert safari in Dubai to see its main attractions: the skyscrapers and the sand dunes. You’ll begin the day exploring Palm Jumeirah, visiting the Blue Mosque, and taking an abra across Dubai Creek to visit the famous souks, all the while catching sight of the city’s most prominent landmarks. 

On the second day you’ll head for an evening desert safari in which you’ll go dune bashing in Dubai’s massive sand dunes, ride and feed a camel, and visit a camp to try shisha, get henna tattoos, and feast on a buffet BBQ dinner. 

This desert experience + Dubai tour includes : Hotel pick up and drop-off, water, snacks, and soft drinks, and a sunset photo stop in the desert. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Dubai Desert Safari Tours FAQ

Prices for desert safari vary depending on the type of tour, but a half-day safari costs around $33.

The desert is one of Dubai’s greatest attractions, and a safari into its sand dunes is very well worth the expense.

In our opinion, the Premium Red Dunes Safari is the ultimate desert safari from Dubai.

We think that Premium Red Dunes Safari is the best desert tour in the country, but some other fantastic options include: • Heritage Dinner Desert Safari • Red Dunes and Camel Safari • Private Heritage Desert Safari

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Ultimate Guide to Dubai Desert Safaris: All You Need to Know (2023)

The major draw for most people visiting Dubai is its towering skyscrapers and tons of leisure choices, but this fabulous Arabian city is not all about that. Roughly 30 to 40 minutes’ drive out of the city limit, Dubai’s blissfully unblemished desert land is well worth a visit for one of the Dubai Desert Safaris.

Rightly so, it caters to a variety of preferences and experiences. If you’re confused about making the right choice of a desert trip, this guide by Neha Singh on different types of desert journeys will help you select the best Dubai desert safaris.

Contents hide What are Dubai Desert Safaris What to Expect in Dubai Desert Safaris Types of Dubai Desert Safaris Top Desert Safari in Dubai Tips for Choosing the Top Desert Safari in Dubai Final Thoughts on the Best Dubai Desert Safaris

What are Dubai Desert Safaris

Dubai desert safaris are guided excursions into the vast swathe of desert sands that is isolated and located away from the city centre. It’s a complete contrast to what Dubai’s glitzy part appears to be.

Devoid of any noise and crowd, this distinct off-road trip effortlessly disconnects you from the chaos of the city life for a few hours. So all you’ll get to experience here is the unequaled allure of the dune scenery accompanied by sheer silence and absolute tranquility.

What to Expect in Dubai Desert Safaris

A typical desert safari in Dubai is an immaculate sum up of nature, adventure and most amazing cultural and traditional experiences . In fact, you can look forward to enjoy the following on your desert safari. That said, there will be variations in inclusions, dependent on your chosen Dubai desert safaris.

• Dune Bash A dune bash includes the use of a powerful 4X4 vehicle which is maneuvered by an expert driver. Sure enough, this will navigate you through the seas of low and high sand dunes in the most pulse-racing way. For adventurists , it goes without saying that this is one of the highpoints of the Dubai desert safaris.

Sunset or Sunrise Views Witnessing sunrise or sunset views or both is one of the specialties of most Dubai desert safaris .  Whether you’re passionate about photography or not, you can’t help but capturing a few images of this phenomenal sight of sun coming out or descending amidst the raw desert beauty.

Experience the traditional Arabian Hospitality Following dune bash and brief stops along the way, you’ll be taken to the Bedouin style campsite . It’s where you’ll spend the rest of the time before your Dubai desert safari culminates. Your experience here starts with a warm welcome with Arabic coffee and fresh dates . And this would charge you up for the next set of adventures.

Camel Ride Take in the changing colors of the breathtaking desert dunes as you hop on to the camel back and enjoy a cool wobbly ride. Fun and thrill apart, it gives you an insight into the humble lifestyle of the ancient Emiratis as this friendly creature was the only means of transport and food in the pre-oil phase.

• Quad Biking There is quite nothing as exhilarating as riding a quad bike across the infinite expanse of the Arabian Desert. The best thing is that you don’t need to have any prior experience or specific license to try this .  Just a brief orientation from experts will get you ready for this adventure-of-a-lifetime, the Dubai desert safaris.

Cultural Activities A desert safari is not all about adrenaline-pumping experiences; many activities included in it let you dig a little deeper into the intriguing traditions and cultural heritage. Have your hands tattooed with striking henna designs, try Shisha smoking, enjoy falconry , and be sure to capture some pictures wearing customary attire as a keepsake of the Dubai desert safaris.

BBQ Dinner  This forms one of the main highlights of the evening or overnight Dubai desert safaris. The taste and quality of cuisines largely depends on the service provider you choose. For instance, Rayna Tours has one of the most lavish BBQ fares, enriched by live cooking stations and dedicated counters for fresh fruits, scrumptious ever traditional desserts etc.

Traditional shows From the sensuous belly dance show to the fabulously dervish Tanura and cool fire shows , there is a spectrum of amazing traditional entertainment, which makes your evening or overnight Dubai desert safari unforgettable.

Camping All Dubai desert safaris are more or less the same, but this is one thing that makes an overnight desert safari unique . All camping facilities are arranged in the midst of the desert means all left for you is to sit back and enjoy the nighttime glory of Dubai’s desert.

Types of Dubai Desert Safaris

There are many different types of Dubai Desert Safaris, let’s look into each of them below.

Morning Desert Safari Whether you’re short on time or just want to catch up with the inspiring desert flora and fauna, this is the best desert safari for you. And not forgetting the many adventure activities that fill up this desert safari, such as dune bash, camel ride, sandboarding, quad biking etc.

Sunrise Desert Safari See the desert awakening to life in its entire majesty and splendor!  Kicking off before the dawn, this Dubai desert safari allows you to get the first-hand view of the sun gradually lighting up the sand dunes . Apart from these, it offers all other inclusions of a standard morning Dubai desert safari.

Hot Air Balloon Ride This is not a regular inclusion of the Dubai desert safaris. In fact, this is a premium experience reserved for those who wish to appreciate the natural grandeur of the magnificently preserved region of Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) .

Needless to say, this allows you to immerse yourself into the vastness and compelling exquisiteness of the desert landscape and its indigenous wildlife.

So be sure to sign up for this desert adventure if you wish to carelessly float in the air and sink into the majesty and tranquility of the surroundings . It also comes with traditional breakfast plus flight certificate and photographs of this experience.

Red Dune Safari Dubai desert safaris can’t get any better than a trip to the mysterious red dunes of Al Lahbab region . Whether you wish to go on a morning or evening desert safari, you can be rest assured of a fantastic desert trip augmented by enigmatic fun and thrill.

• Evening Desert Safari Kicking off in the late afternoon and extending well into the dusk, this is ideal for anyone looking for an epic desert safari experience in Dubai. This offers all inclusions of a morning desert safari , along with the perks of BBQ dining plus cultural experiences and traditional entertainment such as belly dance, Tanura show and more.
• Dinner in Desert Most people skip the desert safari during their Dubai trip, considering it as an adventure trip. But, in real, this is for every taste and ability. So if you want to forego all high-octane desert activities or experiences, simply opt for Dinner in Desert package . Yes, this Dubai desert safari is all about best dining options and super relaxed moments amidst the unparalleled desert sands.
• Overnight Desert Safari No matter you’re up for some distinct desert adventure or planning a romantic trip, this desert safari should be top on your Dubai bucketlist. It’s a perfect blend of all desert safaris as you get to participate in dune bash and cultural activities , together with the chance to dine and camp under the desert stars . That’s not all, witness the first rays of sun illuminating the desert land and complement this safari with a scrumptious traditional breakfast.

Top Desert Safari in Dubai

If you’re looking for the top desert safari in Dubai in advance, there are many options to find online. Below, you can find a list of  Dubai desert safaris and bestsellers at an affordable price.

• Morning Desert Safari:   Rates starting at $45.
• Sunrise Desert Safari : Rates starting at $95.
• Hot Air Balloon Desert Safari : Rates starting at $340 during sunrise.
• Red Dune Safari : Rates starting at $30.
• Evening Desert Safari : Rates starting at $80 for 6 hours.
• Dinner in Desert : Rates starting at $90 for a sunset dinner.
• Overnight Desert Safari: Rates starting at $100 with camping and dinner.

Tips for Choosing the Top Desert Safari in Dubai

• Now that you’ve this guide, the first step is to zero in on inclusions or experiences you would like to have in your Dubai desert safari.
• Pre-book it to avoid any last-minute confusions. But make sure that you get this part done through an experienced desert safari provider.
• Always choose a direct desert safari service provider ; the benefit is that there are no middlemen involved in this case, so you can expect maximum savings with utmost quality in every aspect of your Dubai desert safari.
• You can choose Dubai desert safaris with or without transfers . But our suggestion is to book it with roundtrip transfers , so that you can make the most of your desert safari without worrying about late night drive or losing the way to your Dubai accommodation.
• When it comes to transfers, you can opt for shared or private transfers . Shared transfer is cost-effective , while private transfer is exclusively arranged for you and your group . But it’s not just transfers; every aspect of your desert trip can be customized as per your group’s unique preferences.
• Wear comfortable modest clothes for your desert trip. Complete your look with right accessories like sunglasses, hats and more for that picture worthy moment.
• Don’t forget to apply sunscreen lotion or cream .

Final Thoughts on the Best Dubai Desert Safaris

So go forth and take your pick from the above list of desert safaris! Right from the moment you land in the desert, you’ll realize that there is nothing exaggerating about this trip as every cliché revolved around it turns out to be an unforgettable reality.

Have you ever been to a Dubai Desert Safari? What are some of the best Dubai Desert Safaris you have experienced? We’d love to hear your questions or travel stories in the comments below!  

Neha is a travel blogger who enjoys traveling, meeting new people, and learning about the local culture and food. She is always looking forward to visiting new places and likes to play tennis in her spare time.

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Best place to see wat arun at night, sunset and sunrise (+ free map), lion’s pavilion hong kong: free alternative to the peak tower, 21 thoughts on “ultimate guide to dubai desert safaris: all you need to know (2023)”.

Wow great read! Thanks for sharing, this is definitely one of those bucket list things for me now!

Adding Safari to my bucketlist! Thanks for sharing this.

Great information! Pinned to refer to later as we hope to travel to Dubai one day.

Great post! Like everyone else it’s also on my bucket list to visit Dubai and if I have the time, I want to visit the Dubai desert too.

This truly sounds like an amazing adventure! I never even thought of going to the desert while in Dubai!

Dubai is on my bucket list for next year. Thank you for this guide, it’s been very helpful! 🙂

I have always seen photos of desert safaris but never looked into it, so this was extremely helpful! An African Safari has been at the top of my bucket list for so long, but now this might be too. I have always wanted to see those desert views in person, will definitely be saving this blog!

I never looked into a desert safari but would seriously consider doing this. I only done a one day/night trip into the desert but it wasnt an safari in Tunisia. However I loved the short experience and I would consider doing this in Dubai. I would love to check out these views and say I have done something away from the city. I am more at home with nature and natural landscapes.

Hi there, We did this a few years ago and did the combo. We did dune riding in the jeeps, then went to dinner with a show. It was a great afternoon/evening out that I would recommend to anyone. Nikki

If I ever brave the insanely long fight to Dubai, a desert safari is a high priority! I love the idea of spending the day on the sand dunes before returning to the camp for BBQ, belly dancing and a fire show. I’m shocked by how affordable an overnight safari is!

This is really helpful. A trip to the desert safari has been part of our bucket list. I look forward to the camel ride and enjoy fresh dates. Saving this post for future reference once we have the chance to visit Dubai again.

I’d love a chance to visit the incredible Dubai Desert, as you pointed out it’s such a unique dichotemy compared to the glitz and glam of Dubai itself. The different styles were interesting to consider and I’d never heard of a dune bash before, but I think for my style of travel the Bedouin experience or the sunrise views are some of my favourites. There are a lot of things here to consider before booking so thanks for sharing all these thoughtful details.

Wow, such an extensive list for safaris. I wish I had known before I visited Dubai. I have done only the jeep safari in the desert when I visited Dubai the last time. It was during sunset and it was an amazing experience.

If I go to Dubai, this would be high on my list. I’ve done a camel safari in India, but for some reason, a desert safari in Dubai sounds more appealing, because… it’s the Middle East. I don’t know, it just sounds more authentic to me. I’d love to try dune bashing in the desert.

Whenever I think of Dubai the first thing that comes to mind is the Safari in the desert. So this was such an interesting article and so much of relevance to me. Makes my desire to be there increase many fold. It was nice to imagine being there through your post till we are actually there. Hopefully soon.

Dubai has always been on my travel list! I want to go even more now.

Dubai is on my place to see lost. Will be adding safari it as well. Thanks for sharing

This post brought back all those sweet memories from my UAE trip. I had been to this Arabian country 4 years ago. Needless to say, I love every single day spent in the city. From the towering buildings ready to touch the sky, the food, endless indoor and outdoor adventure, Dubai is the most-loved city for tourist from around the world. Among all the adventures that I experienced in Dubai, Desert Safari has been my favorite. The while-knuckle ride in a powerful 4×4 SUV is unforgettable, the camel ride amazing, the quad-biking thrilling, and the food and entertainment activities in the camp right in the middle of the desert are awesome. Thanks for tips on how to book Desert Safari.

I am planning to visit next to Dubai I will add desert safari in my tour sure thanks for sharing

Hi there, great article! I really enjoyed reading about the different experiences and activities one can expect when going on a Dubai desert safari. It’s fascinating to see how one can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature and culture. I particularly liked how you highlighted the different types of desert safaris available, such as the Hot Air Balloon Ride and the Red Dune Safari, which cater to different preferences and interests. It’s amazing how much there is to see and do in the desert beyond just dune bashing! Thanks for sharing this informative and exciting piece.

great knowledge very informative blog

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15 Best Dubai Desert Safaris

A trip to Dubai is not complete without a desert safari. I still remember the very first desert safari I went on: it was absolutely incredible! There were camels, good food, shisha and of course dune bashing! Because I love desert safaris so much, I have put together a list of the best desert safaris in Dubai. 

One thing I would honestly say is that it really will make a difference when you book your desert safari online. Sure: your hotel will probably have a concierge service or a travel agent they work with that will be able to book the desert safari for you – but the few times I enquired (I was curious as to how much it would cost!) the prices they quoted were an absolute rip off! One of them shoved a flyer under my nose for a $90 desert safari – while we went on THAT EXACT SAME ONE just a month earlier for $40 . I would recommend booking your desert safari online because it can save you a lot of money ! 

Table of Contents

Dubai Desert Safari Red Dune with BBQ, Camel Ride and Sandboarding

This is one of the Dubai desert safaris that ensures 7hrs of pure sandy adventure amidst the Red Arabian Desert, including a BBQ, or 4hrs without. You’ll be escorted in a 4WD vehicle with a live tour guide to the middle of the desert where you can experience dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding, including a visit to the camel farm. The evening will also include a traditional Tanoura dance, a fire show, and a belly dance show. 

Dubai: Desert Safari, Quad Bike, Camel Ride and Al Khayma Camp

This is one of the bestsellers of all the desert safaris in Dubai, with a choice between a 4-hour half-day tour or a 7-hour full-day tour inclusive of dinner. You’ll be able to experience the Red Dunes while dune bashing, sandboarding, and repeated camel rides. The 7hr tour also includes an Arabian makeover, falcon experience, shisha smoking, henna painting, and the traditional tanoura and belly dance shows. You’ll end the tour with a mesmerizing sunset and BBQ dinner. 

Dubai Private Falconry Safari

Unlike the other desert safaris in Dubai, this one will take you on a 5hr tour through nature with interactions with the Dubai falcon, hawk, eagle, and owl. You will be able to enjoy a once in a lifetime experience of visiting the untouched dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, learn about falconry including having a bird of prey trained to your gloved fist, and search for the houbara bustard, Arabian oryx and sand gazelle on the nature drive. You will experience the lush flora and fauna of the Arabian Peninsula and a luxurious breakfast. 

Premium Red Dunes and Camel Safari with BBQ at Al Khayma Camp

You will be picked up by the Safari Captain to head to the Lahbab desert on this desert safari in Dubai, where you can experience sand boarding and dune bashing on the legendary Red Dunes, to be followed by traditional experiences that can only be felt on a desert safari in Dubai. You can also choose to experience a Quad bike or snowboard. The visit to the Al Khayma Desert Camp will include traditional welcome food and drinks and traditional dances.

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Dubai Desert Safari with Camel Ride and Jet Ski Ride

This Dubai desert safari not only lets you experience the thrills of dune bashing, sandboarding ad camel rides through the endless views of the spectacular dunes, it also takes you on a jet ski adventure along the coastline of Dubai, so you get the best of both worlds in one go. You will be exploring the Red Dunes by day and the Jumeirah neighbourhood of Dubai by evening. You can also customize this Dubai desert safari to your liking by choosing only to do the desert safari, the camel ride, or the jet skiing, all three combined or a combination of just two. 

Dubai desert safari 5-Hour Bedouin Desert Experience with Camel Caravan

Desert safaris in Dubai will not let you retrace the footsteps of the Bedouin tribes in Dubai, while in this one, you can do precisely that. You can immerse yourself in the Bedouin lifestyle by traveling the Dubai desert on a traditional camel caravan, watch a Bedouin falcon and Saluki dog demonstration, experience authentic Bédouine cuisine, and visit the Bedouin village in all its traditional glory and take part in traditions and daily rituals. You will also be able to witness the clear waters of the desert oasis in the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.

Dubai desert safari Self-drive 2000cc Ranger-Dune Buggy

Experience one of the more extreme Dubai Desert Safaris around, this one is designed for the ultimate thrill-seeker. Apart from exploring the vast dunes of Dubai, embarking on activities such as sandboarding and camel riding, you will also be able to ride a customized dune buggy, all completely fitted with the necessary safety gear. You can choose between a 4-hour tour and a 6-hour evening tour. The evening tour will take you to a desert camp where you can experience Bedouin cultural activities with BBQ dinner. 

Red Dunes and Camel Safari with Overnight Camp

This Dubai Desert Safari is designed for those who want to truly experience the desert safaris in Dubai in a local way. You can engage in desert experiences like dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding, which will be followed by a lavish BBQ buffet dinner, traditional belly dances, and an overnight stay in a typical Bedouin tent. You will be woken up in time for a spectacular sunrise camel trek & a traditional Arabian breakfast. 

Hot Air Balloon Ride, Breakfast and Dubai Desert Safari

This is one of the most luxurious desert safaris in Dubai, letting you experience the Dubai deserts from an entirely different point of view. You will embark on a breathtaking hot balloon ride at the break of dawn so that you can experience the rising sun over the vast dunes. You’ll be able to see the Arabian flora, fauna and unique species from high up, and later experience a private desert conservation reserve and a gourmet breakfast. To top off the experience, you will be riding a classic open-top 1950s Land Rover, a vehicle to ride the dunes six decades ago. 

Overnight Dubai Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner

This Dubai desert tour will gift you 17hrs of complete desert adventure and experiences like starry skies found in no other safari. You’ll start with a drive across the desert and a stop at a camel farm, after a camel ride and some sandboarding you will be taken to experience a stunning sunset, accompanied by traditional tanoura folk dance and falconry where you’ll see these loyal birds’ hunting skills. The custom Arabian hospitality will greet you, and be able to savour shisha with dates and coffee, followed by a BBQ dinner and belly dance performance. The tour will end with a light breakfast before your return to Dubai.

Morning Safari with Quad Bikes, Sandboarding and Camel Ride

This is one of the more typical desert safaris in Dubai, taking you across the endless dunes of Lahbab by 4WD vehicle. You can experience the calm bliss the Dubai desert has to offer early morning, experience a ride on a camel, and some dune bashing after. You can also give sand boarding a try, and if it tickles your fancy, you can also pre-book a quad bike and give that a try too. This tour lets you choose between a shared option or a private option so you can experience the dunes as you like. 

Dubai Sunrise desert Safari

Experiencing a sunrise surrounded by dunes is sure to be a bucket list item people didn’t even know they needed to add into their bucket list. Your guide will take you through the deserts of Dubai, and take you to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve where you will be able to witness the sunrise, accompanied by a breakfast with coffee or a glass of bubbly after which you will head out for more explorations. This is one of the conservation-based and educational desert safaris in Dubai, where you can explore the Arabic flora, fauna and wildlife. 

Dune Buggy Desert Safari

This desert safari in Dubai lets you explore the mighty dunes through an entirely off-road experience. You will be riding a twin-seater dune buggy, which will take you through the Dubai desert, over high peaks and valleys made of dunes. Your guide, fluent in Urdu, English, Hindi and Arabic will take you on the best routes depending on what you prefer. Each dune buggy is equipped with a full roll cage, bucket seats and a full safety harness for your utmost safety. 

Dubai Private Night Safari and Astronomy

This Dubai desert safari is made for nature and animal enthusiasts. This night safari will show you the variety of animals that start to awaken as the sunsets. You will be exploring the sandy desert at night, escaping the heat during the day time and exploring all sorts of creatures with night vision binoculars. You will be provided with a scenic tour by vintage Land Rover, desert camp and relax under a canopy of stars. Finally, you’ll be able to experience an open-air camp belonging to a local royal family with a three-course dinner, drinks and shisha. 

Helicopter and Desert Safari Combo Tour

This is one of the more unique desert safaris in Dubai, which takes you from the sand to the sky. You will ride a helicopter, from which you will see the magnificent sights of the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Burj Al Arab after which you will be escorted towards the Red Dunes. You can experience dune bashing and camel riding in the desert, followed by a BBQ dinner at a desert Bedouin camp. 

Lieze Neven is a globetrotting travel writer and expat currently based in Nepal. With a passion for exploration, she has lived in Dubai, the UK, and Belgium, alongside her international teacher husband.  Her parents live in France and she tries to visit Paris at least once a year. Together, they travel the world looking for the best hotels, experiences and food locations have to offer!

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Best Desert Safaris in Dubai – prices, activities, timings

A desert safari is one of the best ways to experience Emirati culture during your holiday in Dubai.

Choosing the right one for you and your family/friends is difficult with so many desert safaris.

To identify the best desert safari in Dubai that suits your needs, consider its start time, duration, included activities, and cost. 

Since some tour operators are better, you must also factor in the local operator while choosing the perfect desert safari.

This is why most tourists are confused and don’t know which Dubai desert safari to book. 

This article covers Dubai’s five best desert safaris according to their popularity.

Top Dubai Desert Safaris Tickets

# Premium Red Dunes, Camel Safari, & BBQ at Al Khayma # Red Dune Safari, Camel Riding, Sandboarding & BBQ # Red Dune Safari, Camel Ride, Sandboard & BBQ Options

Table of contents

Best dubai desert safaris, premium red dunes, camel safari, & bbq at al khayma, red dune safari, camel riding, sandboarding & bbq, red dune safari, camel ride, sandboard & bbq options, desert safari, quad bike, camel ride & al khayma camp, desert safari, quad bike, camel ride, and sandboarding, best desert safari operator in dubai.

There are hundreds of options for tourists, out of which we have selected the five best desert safaris available in Dubai and explained them. 

All these desert safaris are highly rated, with a 4.8/5 or 4.9/5. 

Each of these safaris is designed to drive you into the depths of the Arabian sandy desert experience and make your Dubai holiday memorable. 

Rating:  4.9/5 Duration:  Seven hours Starting time:  2 pm Pick up:  Available from all hotels or apartments in Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman, as well as the cruise port (Port Rashid). Type of tour:  Small Group Tour Operator:  OceanAir Travel

A 4×4 Land Cruiser picks you up and drives you to the desert, after which you enjoy the adrenaline rush of a quad bike ride and dune bashing.

During this magnificent desert safari, you can also try sandboarding for an extra adrenalin kick.

This excellent desert safari continues to the Al Khayma Camp, where you will be welcomed with Arabic coffee, sweets, and dates. 

You can go on a camel ride, smoke Shisha, paint Henna, meet the resident falcon expert, etc.

The buffet barbecue dinner begins at sunset, and you can eat while enjoying traditional dances. 

After dinner, you relax and board your vehicle for a drop back at your hotel. 

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (12+ years):  AED 253 ($69) Child Ticket (3 to 11 years):  AED 209 ($57)

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Rating:  4.9/5 Duration:  4 to 7 hours Starting time:  8 am to 3 pm (many options) Pick up:  Available from all hotels or locations within Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, and the Port Rashid Cruise Terminal. Type of tour:  Small Group Tour Operator:  Ammar Tours

This tour is an opportunity to explore the Dubai desert in the best ways possible. 

It is one of the best desert safaris in Dubai if you want a thrilling adventure with family and friends. 

You will experience dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, etc., and then enjoy the brilliant desert sunset.

You can also enjoy the traditional Bedouin camp experience with a BBQ dinner, a classic Tanura show, and a belly dancing performance.

You will savor the rich flavors of local food at a BBQ dinner with Arabic coffee, fresh dates, falafel, and shawarma.

4-hour safari : AED 104 ($28) 7-hour safari (with BBQ dinner):   AED 228 ($62)

Rating:  4.8/5 Duration:  4 to 7 hours Starting time:  8 am to 2.30 pm (many options) Pick up:  Available from all hotels or locations within Dubai City and Port Rashid cruise terminal Type of tour:  Small Group Tour Operator:  Dream Journey Tourism

This tour is a 4-hour Dubai desert safari, which you can upgrade to a 7-hour safari with a BBQ dinner.

This outstanding desert safari in Dubai starts at 2.30 pm. However, there is a 10 am option as well.

You drive to the unforgiving Lahbab desert for some dune bashing. 

You can witness the splendid Dubai sunset from the highest dune around if you are lucky.

Dune bashing is followed by sandboarding before you head back to your hotel.

If you opt for the 7-hour tour, visiting a Bedouin-style camp is added.

You get closer to the locals by riding a camel, smoking a Shisha pipe, trying the Henna tattoo, and dressing up in Arabic costumes, followed by a belly dance, Tanoura show, and a barbecue dinner.

Ticket Cost:   AED 210 ($57)

Rating:  4.9/5 Duration:  4 to 7 hours Starting time:  7.45 am to 4 pm (many options) Pick up:  Available from Dubai, Sharjah, Dubai Cruise Terminal (Port Rashid), and Dubai Airport Type of tour:  Small Group Tour Operator:  OceanAir Travels

This guided dune-bashing safari is one of the best ways to discover the desert outside Dubai. 

Enjoy the opportunity to participate in various optional activities, including a quad bike ride, camel ride, or dinner and entertainment with an extended tour option.

For the cultural experience part of the safari, you will head to the best camp in the region – the Al Khayma camp.

The duration and cost of this exceptional safari depend on the activities you select.

Adult Ticket (12+ years):  AED 420 ($114) Child Ticket (3 to 11 years):  AED 354 ($96)

Rating:  4.9/5 Duration:  4 hours Starting time:  8 am to 2.30 pm Pick up:  Available from any hotel or location within Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, and the Port Rashid cruise terminal.  Type of tour:  Small Group  Tour Operator:  Ammar Tours

On this fantastic desert safari, you will escape the hustle and bustle of Dubai and experience the calm of the surrounding desert.

For four hours, you will enjoy legendary Arabian hospitality and satisfy your sense of adventure in Lahbab, approximately 50 kilometers from Dubai’s city center.

After your 4WD Land Cruiser slips and slides like a roller-coaster across the dunes, you can try the camel ride, sandboarding, or quad bike experience. 

After enjoying the desert sunset, you will be dropped back at your hotel.

Ticket Prices (with quad bike ride)

Adult Ticket (12+ years):  AED 364 ($99) Child Ticket (3 to 11 years):  AED 357 ($97)

Ticket Prices (without quad bike ride)

Adult Ticket (12+ years):  AED 203 ($55) Child Ticket (3 to 11 years):  AED 198 ($54)

According to Tripadvisor,  OceanAir Travel  is the best Dubai desert safari tour company.

It is rated No 1 for outdoor activities in Dubai, and all their desert safaris end at Al Khayma camp. 

Check out a preview of the camp –

OceanAir Travel offers many desert safaris in Dubai, and we have listed some of the best below –

Recommended Reading

# Best Desert Safaris in Dubai # Desert Safari from Sharjah # Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi # Desert Safari in Ras Al Khaimah # Price of desert safari in Dubai # VIP Desert Safaris in Dubai # Morning desert safaris in Dubai # Dubai Safari with BBQ dinner # Dubai Safari with Quad Bike # Dune Buggy Safari in Dubai # Overnight desert safari in Dubai # Safari in Dubai with belly dance # Safari without dune bashing # Falconry safari in Dubai

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This article was researched & written by

Hanan Irfan

Hanan Irfan is fascinated by exhilarating treks, alpine lakes, landscape photography, and football. He loves trying different cuisines and meeting people from around the world. He's a sucker for solitude and sunsets, capturing memories on the run. His favorite cities: Tromsø, Reykjavik, and Seychelles

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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Your ultimate desert safari Dubai guide 2024

Dubai, a city of superlatives and dreams, offers an enchanting blend of modernity and tradition. One of the experiences that encapsulate the essence of Dubai is a desert safari tour . In 2024, this Emirati gem is set to offer even more thrilling and unforgettable desert adventures. From thrilling dune bashing to cultural encounters in the heart of the Arabian desert, this complete guide will help you plan your desert safari Dubai adventure like a pro.

1. The basics — planning your desert safari Dubai

Before we delve into the exhilarating world of desert safaris, let’s cover the basics.

Dubai desert safaris are available year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to April. This period offers pleasant weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C, making outdoor activities much more enjoyable. Traveling during this time will ensure a more comfortable experience without the scorching summer heat.

Desert safaris can be a half-day or full-day experience, with some options even extending into overnight stays. The choice depends on your preferences, schedule, and how immersive you want your experience to be. Whether you’re a brief thrill-seeker or a more adventurous traveler, Dubai desert safari options cater to your needs.

2. Types of desert safaris in Dubai

Dubai offers a range of desert safari options in 2024. Let’s explore the various safari experiences:

Morning safari

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the morning safari is ideal. It includes dune bashing and sandboarding, followed by a visit to a camel farm, and a chance to meet the graceful creatures. The morning sunlight paints the desert in warm tones, offering a serene and peaceful backdrop for your adventure.

Evening safari

The evening safari is perfect for witnessing the desert’s stunning sunset. It typically includes dune bashing, camel rides, and a lavish barbecue dinner in a desert camp. You can also enjoy traditional dances and henna painting. The dramatic transition from day to night in the desert is a spectacle you won’t want to miss.

Overnight safari

For a more immersive experience, consider the overnight safari. After an evening of fun and cultural experiences, you can spend the night under the starlit desert sky in a traditional Bedouin-style camp. It’s an opportunity to truly connect with the desert’s serenity and beauty.

Private safari

If you’re looking for a more personalized experience, private safaris are available, where you can customize the activities and even choose your campsite. This option is perfect for those seeking an exclusive and tailored adventure.

3. The thrill of dune bashing

When it comes to desert safaris in Dubai, one activity stands out for its sheer adrenaline rush – dune bashing. It’s essentially a roller-coaster ride through the desert dunes in a 4×4 vehicle. Your skilled driver will expertly navigate the sandy terrain, taking you on a heart-pounding journey of twists and turns. Hold on tight, as you ascend and descend the dunes, creating an exhilarating experience you won’t forget. For adventure seekers, this is an absolute must-try.

The dune bashing experience provides an exciting way to explore the desert’s undulating terrain. You’ll feel the rush of the wind and the excitement of each twist and turn. The vehicles used are specifically designed for this purpose, ensuring both your safety and the thrill of the adventure.

4. Cultural encounters on a Dubai desert safari

Dubai desert safaris aren’t just about adventure; they also offer an opportunity to connect with the region’s rich culture and heritage.

Camel riding

Experience the age-old tradition of camel riding, a gentle and unhurried journey through the desert. Camels have long been a symbol of the Arabian Peninsula and a vital mode of transportation in the past. Riding one will give you a unique perspective of the vast desert landscape.

Camel riding is not just an adventure; it’s a connection to the roots of the region. As you sway gently atop these majestic creatures, you can appreciate the resilience of the Bedouin people who relied on camels for their survival. The experience evokes a sense of nostalgia for the past and an understanding of the desert’s importance in Emirati culture.

Falconry displays

Falconry is deeply ingrained in Emirati culture. Many Dubai desert safaris include falconry displays, where you can witness these majestic birds of prey in action. Learn about the ancient art of falconry and the significance of falcons in the region.

Falconry is not just a sport; it’s a tradition that has been passed down through generations. The bond between the falconer and the falcon is profound, and the incredible speed and precision of these birds in flight are a sight to behold. Watching a falconry display provides a glimpse into the long-standing connection between the people of the desert and these magnificent birds.

Traditional Bedouin camps

In the heart of the desert, you’ll find traditional Bedouin-style camps that recreate the ambiance of old Arabia. These camps are a perfect setting for cultural immersion. Enjoy traditional Arabic coffee and dates, get henna tattoos, and watch mesmerizing belly dance performances under the starry desert sky.

Visiting a traditional Bedouin camp allows you to step back in time and experience the simple yet beautiful way of life in the desert. The warm hospitality of the camp hosts, the aroma of Arabic coffee, and the rhythmic melodies of traditional music create an atmosphere that’s both enchanting and educational.

5. Dining in the desert

A highlight of your Dubai desert safari is undoubtedly the dining experience. From lavish barbecues to authentic Emirati cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Barbecue dinners

Evening and overnight safaris often culminate in a delectable barbecue dinner served in the desert camp. Enjoy a spread of grilled meats, fresh salads, and an array of international and local dishes while you soak in the captivating desert ambiance.

Barbecue dinners in the desert are a culinary delight. The aroma of sizzling meat over open flames blends perfectly with the desert air. You can savor a variety of dishes, from succulent kebabs to perfectly marinated chicken. Dining under the open sky, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the desert, adds a touch of magic to your meal.

Emirati cuisine

For a more authentic experience, some Dubai desert safaris offer traditional Emirati cuisine, giving you a taste of the local flavors. Savor dishes like Al Harees (a slow-cooked wheat and meat dish) and Al Machboos (spiced rice with meat or seafood), provide an opportunity to explore the rich and diverse Emirati food culture.

Emirati cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, deeply rooted in the country’s history and culture. The dishes are a reflection of the resourcefulness of the Bedouin people, who transformed simple ingredients into delectable dishes. Trying Emirati cuisine allows you to understand the history and heritage of the region through the language of food.

6. Additional activities on a desert safari Dubai

Aside from the key attractions, desert safaris in Dubai offer a range of other activities to keep you engaged.

Sandboarding

Channel your inner adventurer and try sandboarding down the desert dunes. It’s like snowboarding but on the soft sands of the Arabian desert. Whether you’re a seasoned boarder or a beginner, it’s a thrilling experience for all. As you glide down the dunes, you’ll feel the rush of adrenaline and the soft grains of sand under your feet. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the desert landscape from a different perspective and add a touch of adventure to your safari.

Hot air ballooning

For a more serene perspective of the desert, consider a hot air balloon ride. As you gently ascend into the sky, you’ll have a breathtaking panoramic view of the vast desert landscape. It’s a tranquil contrast to the adrenaline-fueled dune bashing. Hot air ballooning offers a peaceful and majestic view of the desert at sunrise or sunset, allowing you to appreciate the vastness and tranquility of this unique environment.

The desert’s isolation from city lights makes it an excellent location for stargazing. After the sun sets and the campfires are lit, lay back and marvel at the starry expanse above, a rare opportunity for urban dwellers to connect with the night sky. The desert’s silence and the clarity of the night make it a prime location for stargazing. You’ll be able to spot constellations, planets, and shooting stars, creating a profound connection with the universe.

Ready for the best Dubai desert safari experience?

A desert safari in Dubai is a journey that takes you from the heart of a bustling metropolis to the tranquil and awe-inspiring desert landscape. In 2024, Dubai promises an even more unforgettable experience with a perfect blend of adventure and culture. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a culture enthusiast, a Dubai desert safari experience has something for everyone.

As you plan your visit to this dazzling Emirate, make sure to include a desert safari on your must-do list. Your Dubai adventure awaits in the heart of the Arabian desert. The 2024 desert safaris promise a fantastic blend of tradition and modernity, adventure and serenity, making your trip a memorable one.

From the thrill of dune bashing to the beauty of a starry desert night, Dubai’s desert safaris offer an unforgettable journey that combines excitement, culture, and natural beauty. Embark on your desert adventure, and let the Dubai desert unveil its magic as you experience the wonders it has to offer in the year 2024.

About the author

Mirela Letailleur , coming from the capital of Romania, now embraces the serene beauty of Southern France, her current residence. With a heart that beats for exploration, Mirela channels her passion through her widely recognized travel blog, The Travel Bunny. Her blog serves as a treasure trove for those seeking to unravel the charms of Europe on a budget. As the creator of bespoke, complimentary travel guides, Mirela’s expertise doesn’t just skim the surface. Her deep-rooted knowledge of local culture transforms her guides into keys for authentic experiences, striking a chord with budget travelers. Though her journey began amidst the historic contours of Europe, her expertise has transcended continents, now echoing through the mesmerizing dunes of Dubai.

Among the myriad adventures Dubai offers, Mirela has carved a niche in unraveling the exhilarating essence of desert safaris, especially quad biking escapades. Her insightful narratives and practical tips are laced with a palpable enthusiasm that inspires even the most seasoned travelers to see Dubai’s desert from a fresh perspective. Mirela’s problem-solving knack shines through as she meticulously guides her readers through the dos and don’ts, ensuring a safe yet adrenaline-spiked experience. With Mirela’s guidance, every reader is well on their way to conquering the golden sands of Dubai, turning an ordinary desert safari into an extraordinary tale of adventure.

Read more about Mirela Letailleur

After planning the best Dubai desert safari experience, check out these travel blog posts Dubai city tours you won’t want to miss Quad biking in Dubai — tips, tricks, and all you need to know A guide to Dhow Cruise Creek and Marina: a mesmerizing journey

Your guide to the best Desert Safari spots in Dubai

Things to do in Dubai Adventure in Dubai Desert Safari in Dubai Desert Safari Locations

Whether you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience or a break from the chaotic glitzy life in Dubai, a desert safari is something that should be on your itinerary.

There are different types of desert safaris, but they all include an thrilling off-road ride in a 4x4 over the sand dunes. You will also get to visit a Bedouin camp, where you can learn about the traditional nomadic lifestyle and try some delicious Arabic cuisine. Camel rides and Sandboarding are also popular activities in the desert.

Well-known for its desert safaris, Dubai offers several different locations to choose from. Each of these safari locations offers a unique experience, and it is important to pick the right one. If you are planning your Desert Safari trip in Dubai, then this guide is sure to help you find your fit!

How long does a typical Desert Safari in Dubai take?

• The Safari generally lasts for around six hours, during which time the visitors can enjoy a number of different desert activities.
• Ideally, most desert safaris in Dubai start at 3 or 4 pm, when the sun has slowly moved away from the horizon, until 10 or 11 pm.
• However, overnight desert safaris are popular and recommended, where you can camp all night, enjoy some BBQ under the starlit skies, and catch a sunrise in the morning before heading back!

Top Desert Safari Locations to Visit

1 Al Qudra Desert

Less than an hour from the city, this desert is pretty popular among the locals. Part of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, it is located in the Saih Al Salam area and is popular for its beautiful sand dunes, and amazing views. It is also one of the best places to see wildlife in the Emirate. The reserve is home to oryx, gazelles, and desert foxes. And with over 130 species of birds, it's a birdwatcher's paradise, making it a great spot for photography or just taking in the sights. The man-made Al Qudra lake is located in the middle of the desert and is surrounded by dunes. It's a peaceful oasis in the middle of the sand.

2 Liwa Desert

The Rub' al Khali is a vast stretch of desert that covers much of southern Arabia, with the Liwa Desert being on its northern end. Translating to 'empty quarter', it is one of the harshest environments on Earth, with temperatures often exceeding 50 degrees Celsius and little to no rainfall. The desert is home to a variety of plants and animals that have adapted to extreme conditions. Despite its hostile environment, the region is of great cultural and historical importance. For centuries, it has been used as a trade route between Arabia and Africa. In more recent times, it has become a popular destination for adventure seekers and archaeologists alike. The Liwa Desert is truly a unique and fascinating place.

3 Lahbab Desert

Stretching for over 2,000 square kilometers, the Lahbab Desert is home to a variety of desert wildlife, including oryx, gazelles, and spiny-tailed lizards. Despite its harsh conditions, the Lahbab Desert has a long history of human occupation. Archaeological evidence suggests that people have been living in the area for over 6,000 years. Today, about 1000 people still call the desert home, most of whom are wealthy Bedouins who are friends with the Dubai royal family. Although life in the Lahbab Desert is challenging, these nomadic people have adapted to the harsh conditions and continue to lead a traditional way of life, which the visitors can see.

Known as the 'Big Red' due to its terracotta red colour, the location is famous among 4x4 enthusiasts. This spot has the smoothest dunes that can be tackled by both rookies and professionals alike. The desert stretches from Sharjah to Dubai, and is located on the way to the Hatta Oman Road, making it easily accessible.

Also known as 'Little Liwa', since this is the training ground for most Liwa enthusiasts, the desert borders the three Emirates of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain. However, Sweihan is recommended only for experienced drivers, due to its risky big dunes and soft sands combo. The Naqrah, a sand mountain is located in the Sweihan Desert. You can often find lone locals walking with their camels throughout the desert.

6 Jebel Maleihah

Located towards Kalba, the Jebel Maleihah or the Mleiha desert is also known as the 'Fossil Rock'. The amount of marine fossils in the region has given itself this name. The UNESCO nominated world heritage site, is home to the Mleiha Archeological center, from where they search and study ancient artifacts found in the region. Many tools, utensils, and skeletons of camels were found here and many photographers flock here due to its unique offerings. The Mleiha desert is a great place to learn more about the past while having an adventurous desert safari!

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7 al faya desert.

One of the most notable features of the desert is its huge sand dunes, and hence is known as the 'Big Fall'. In recent years, the the ruby sand desert has also become a popular location for extreme sports. The place can get pretty crowded during the weekends, so be sure to start early.

Best Recommended Desert Safari Tours

Are you looking for an exhilarating and adventure-filled desert safari? Desert safari tours offer travelers the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful and remote locations on earth. And, with Headout's so many different tours to choose from, it’s easy to find a desert safari tour that’s right for you! Start planning your desert safari today !

Ready to Explore Dubai?

Fancy heading out to some other must-visit Dubai attractions? Take inspiration from our list of the best things to do in Dubai here. Use our comprehensive Dubai Travel Guide to explore the rest of Emirate in a hassle-free fashion with all the need-to-know information in hand.

Which Desert Safari location gives the best Off-Roading experience?

Sweihan is the ultimate location for Off-Roading. However, it is recommended only for experienced drivers.

Which Desert Safari location is the best for Dune Bashing?

The Liwa Desert is home to the highest number of sand dunes in the country. It is the playground, and ultimately the best place for Dune Bashing in the UAE.

How long is the Desert Safari in Dubai?

The safari typically lasts for around six hours, though this can vary depending on the package you choose.

Which Desert Safari location is recommended for camping for families?

The Al Qudra Desert is highly recommended, considering its proximity to the Dubai city and the wide range of activities inside - like cycling tracks, bird watching, love lake and more, which is perfect for both young and old.

Which Desert Safari locations should Photographers keep a look out for?

Though all the deserts in Dubai are equally picturesque, the best bet for wildlife photography enthusiasts would be the Al Qudra desert with its artificial lakes, dunes, and fauna. The Mleiha Desert or 'Fossil Rock' is known for its sheer amount of fossil collections and Bedouin culture in the breathtaking surroundings.

Which Desert Safari location in Dubai is best for Quad Biking?

 The Bidayer or the 'Big Red' is the best place for quad biking due to its easy to handle dunes. The place is filled with motorbike enthusiasts on weekends.

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EXPLORE DUBAI’S BEST DESERT SAFARIS

Our range of desert safaris suits all different types of travellers. Whether you are looking for an adventure or a luxurious journey through the dunes, we have meticulously created the experience for you! With our experiences we strive to deliver unique and memorable adventures in the most sustainable and innovative ways possible.

Journey back to the turning point in Dubai’s history when Land Rovers changed the way people travelled through the desert. These authentic Desert Safaris offer a window into Dubai’s past for curious travellers who like culture and adventure.

Discover the magic of the desert and experience the most exclusive Desert Safaris in Dubai in the most unique way possible – in the new luxurious Land Rover Defender. Ideal for travellers looking for a premium experience.

ULTIMATE OVERNIGHT DESERT EXPERIENCE

Extend your desert adventure with these exciting overnight and hot air balloon add-ons.

If you’re not yet ready to bid farewell to the desert, you can choose to add on overnight in your own traditional Arabic stone dwelling room. In the morning, awake to a gourmet breakfast.

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Patricija247, amazing experience, dhuancastillo, treated like royalty, jeffpn6144co, barbarazy3908rv, famous personalities spotted on our desert experiences.

We pride ourselves in unique and memorable desert experiences that everyone will enjoy - even celebrities! Over the years, we've had the privilege to have hosted famous people from all over the world. When it comes to high-end desert experiences, Platinum Heritage's desert safaris promise to deliver exactly that, which is why we are lucky enough to have celebrities choose us for their expeditions!

Travelling is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the natural world and to learn about different cultures. Ecotourism is responsible and sustainable travel to natural and cultural areas that conserves the environment, preserves the culture and provides economic support to the local people. Our Desert Safaris are part of the bigger picture – conserving the natural environment and cultural heritage of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. As the only ecotourism company in Dubai, every decision we make is based on what’s best for the environment and local people in unison with curating authentic experiences for Dubai’s visitors.

The welfare of our animals is extremely important to us. That’s why we follow the strict guidelines of the Global Welfare Guidance for Animals in Tourism. These guidelines suggest that all animals should have access to the five freedoms which are access to food and water, a suitable living environment, good health, an opportunity to exhibit natural behaviours and protection from fear and distress. All of our camel safaris, falcon shows and wildlife drives follow these guidelines to ensure that they are ethical. Find out more about the Platinum Heritage Animal Welfare Guidelines.

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Browse through our range of desert safaris, as well as experiences from our partners like hot air balloon flights with Balloon Adventures Dubai and self-drive boat tours with HERO OdySea. Be spoilt for choice and plan your next adventure with this easy-to-navigate brochure.

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Things to consider while planning a desert safari in Dubai

• Before your trip starts
• What to expect from a Dubai desert safari?
• Best time to go for desert safari in Dubai
• Types of desert safari

Going for a thrilling desert safari in Dubai is certainly exciting. From dune bashing and quad biking to enjoying authentic Arab cuisine, camel rides and sandboarding, there’s a lot to do in the desert. Many tourists start planning for a desert safari in Dubai well before their trip.

There are several highly-rated safari companies in Dubai and each offers something different in terms of activities, food and the quality of experience. You can opt for a day trip or go for an overnight desert safari . There are plenty of options to choose from, so get an insight on how to plan a desert safari in Dubai.

Planning for a Desert Safari in Dubai 

A typical Dubai desert safari experience will include lots of entertainment activities and delicious food.  Whether you’re a tourist or long-term UAE resident, you must try this exciting, must-do activity at least once.

Dune bashing in these ferocious 4×4 land cruisers will certainly feel incredible. After the thrilling ride, camel riding, falcon holding, henna painting and other activities allow you to explore the Emirati culture.

Want to make the most of your safari trip? Here’s all that you need to keep in mind to fully enjoy the experience in the desert.

Before your Trip Starts

The timing of your trip will influence your preparations. Usually, desert safaris in Dubai start in the afternoon. However, if you opt for an overnight safari in Dubai, timings may be different. Be sure to get clarity from your tour operator and confirm the exact pickup location to avoid last-minute inconveniences.

Food and Beverages

Desert safari rides can get bumpy. So it is recommended to have a light meal before your trip. Anything that can be nauseating should be avoided. You won’t be left hungry as the dinner feast will be plentiful and delicious. Similarly, you can get water, coffee, tea and soft drinks at the campsite, so pack light.

Clothes, Accessories and Shoes

There is no specific dress code for Dubai desert safari. However, it is important to wear modest clothes, preferably light-coloured linen or cotton. Shorts, light tops, t-shirts, jeans are fine for men, women and kids. Jackets or shawls come handy during the evening. Interestingly, once the sun disappears, it can get chilly quickly.

It would be best to avoid joggers or closed, formal shoes as you surely don’t want to struggle with sand particles in your footwear. Open shoes, flip-flops or sandals would be your friend in the desert. Sunblock is a must, along with protective headgear (hats/caps) and sunglasses. The Keffiyeh (traditional Arabian headscarf) can be used to cover the face if there are strong winds.

Cash/Credit Cards

Carry some spare cash or a credit card along as you might want to buy souvenirs, pictures or videos from the official photographer at the campsite. However, please note that shopping can be a bit expensive at these camps. Consider the value of the product before making the purchase decision.

Carrying limited items is a good idea. This is especially beneficial if you are sharing the vehicle with other passengers. Carrying massive bags around the campsite is also a hassle. We don’t recommend wearing heavy jewellery or keeping a lot of valuables.

What to Expect During a Desert Safari

Dune bashing.

All safari vehicles have safety prerequisites. In fact, all vehicles have to be approved by the government. However, once you are in the vehicle, it is your responsibility to make use of safety features. Strap on the seat belt and sit tight. If there are any issues, speak to the driver. All drivers are well trained and experienced. Hence, there is nothing to worry about. Yet, fastening the seat belt is the bare minimum one could do. You will still be able to make videos or take pictures. A golden rule is to always listen to your guide/driver.

Other Activities – Quad Biking, Henna Painting, Horse Riding and Camel Riding

After dune bashing, you can engage in a number of activities at the traditional camp. Drive around in the desert on heavy quad bikes. If you enjoy heavy engines, quad biking could be a lot of fun.

If heavy machines don’t appeal to you, feel free to glide on the sand with sandboarding. This could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Camels are known as the ship of the desert. Being in this sea of sand, you ought to sail this ship. Camel riding and horse riding are included in most safari packages. In fact, camel riding in Dubai is a popular activity amongst tourists. Another unique experience is holding the Arabian falcon.

Henna painting is another traditional activity you could try.

Dinner and Dance

As the sun goes down, you get the chance to enjoy a delicious buffet dinner while dancers keep you entertained with Tanoura dancing, belly dancing and fire shows.

The dinner is a proper feast.

The BBQ items are served hot with traditional sauces. Along with the food, you can also smoke flavoured shisha. After lots of activity throughout the day, you will feel a bit hungry.

These highly skilled dancers leave the audiences in awe. Arabic dates and hot beverages will also be served during the dinner. The overnight desert safari in Dubai’s schedule is similar, except that it also includes breakfast.

Roaming around in the Desert

During your tour, there will be ample time to soak in the desert atmosphere. Head out of the camp to familiarise yourself with the environment. The vast stretches of sand are the perfect backdrop for some pictures. Look out for the cacti, something you are unlikely to find in many other deserts. Lucky ones sometimes also find cacti flowers.

Moreover, there’s desert wildlife – raccoons, scorpions, lizards and snakes. Stay alert and keep your distance. To be fair, it really isn’t dangerous. But don’t take a raccoon selfie. That could spell trouble anywhere.

What is the best time for a desert safari in Dubai?

The best months to go for desert safari in Dubai are from November to March. The weather generally is pleasant in the afternoons. Nights are not that chilly. So it is just perfect weather for this kind of activity.

How do I choose the right Dubai desert safari experience?

This depends on your own preference. What time of the day would you like to go? What type of activities do you enjoy most? Do you want a real desert-like experience or prefer a more luxurious camp? How much money are you willing to spend?

Answer all these questions and you will be able to choose the right safari operator. Also, you might find excellent discounted deals on platforms like Cobone.

What are the different types of desert safari in Dubai?

Well, there are different types of desert safari in Dubai. The main activities are the same, but add-ons can be different. Desert safari Dubai timings also depend on the type of deal you book. Here’s an overview to give you a better idea. Each type has its own features that are worth experiencing but feel free to compare all and plan according to your convenience.

Morning Desert Safari Dubai

Typically desert safaris in Dubai start around afternoon. However, you can opt for a morning desert safari. All activities are part of this trip except live entertainment (dances performances) and dinner. If you have limited time in Dubai, this might be a good option.

Evening Desert Safari Dubai

This is the most popular time for heading to the desert. Typically, it starts after 03:00 pm. You get the whole package including entertainment, food and other activities.

Overnight Desert Safari

Once you are done with the evening extravaganza, spend the night in the desert under glittering stars. Overnight desert safari in Dubai presents a unique opportunity to get away from the hustle of daily life and simply relax.

Private Desert Safari

Book the car and go at your own pace. This is an excellent option for larger groups. However, you will have to pay a little bit extra.

Self-drive Desert Safari

If you own a 4×4 vehicle, you could head to the desert at your own convenience. However, a safari-licensed drive will take over from you for the dune bashing activity. If you opt for this desert safari deal in Dubai, make sure you are aware of the Dubai desert safari location. Operators have particular areas reserved.

What can I do to make my desert safari a pleasant experience?

Dune bashing could be categorised as a harsh activity. Hence, it is not recommended for pregnant women, babies and people with heart or back problems. Avoid dune-bashing if you’re prone to motion sickness. If there are any concerns, it would be best to ask your doctor. However, you could still visit the camp and enjoy henna painting and traditional dances.

Here’s hoping that you are well-prepared for the trip now. The only thing left to do is to make a booking. Also, check out our list of top companies offering desert safari deals in Dubai . Once you have selected a package, desert safari Dubai booking will be straight forward.

Just follow the aforementioned suggestions when planning for Desert Safari in Dubai and you will have a great time. Besides desert safari, there are numerous adventures in Dubai which you could try.

It really depends on what type of trip it is. For example, activities would be different for a honeymoon tour to Dubai as opposed to a tour with children. There is something for everyone in this emirate.

Planning a trip to Dubai? Visit MyBayut and read all about the tourist spots in Dubai and more.

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Dubai Desert Safari Packages

Beyond the glittering skyscrapers and buzzing souks, Dubai’s allure whispers from its golden desert heart. Imagine soaring dune crests in a 4×4, painted orange by the setting sun.

Picture gentle camel rides amidst towering sands, and stargazing under a tapestry of a million stars.

This, dear traveler, is the magic of Dubai desert safari packages, tailor-made adventures unlocking the soul of this mesmerizing landscape.

From adrenaline-pumping dune bashing to serene sunset dinners, there’s a package for every thrill-seeker, nature lover, and family seeking an unforgettable Arabian escapade.

Buckle up, let’s explore the diverse worlds within these packages and unearth your dream desert adventure.

Unforgettable Dubai Desert Safari Packages:

Standard packages:.

Unleash your inner explorer with City Smart’s budget-friendly Standard Desert Safari package.

This 4-hour sunset escapade promises an unforgettable taste of Dubai’s golden dunes, packed with thrills and cultural delights.

Buckle up for an exhilarating dune bashing adventure in a Land Cruiser 4×4, capturing stunning sunset photos amidst the shifting sands.

Relax with unlimited water, soft drinks, and tea & coffee, before trying your hand at free sandboarding and camel riding – a must-do desert experience!

Indulge in traditional henna art for ladies and kids, or puff on a complimentary Hubble Bubble (Sheesha) while enjoying captivating live shows.

Two belly dance performances, two Tanura shows, two fire shows, and an Arabic cultural show will transport you to the heart of Arabian nights.

Refuel with an unlimited BBQ and international buffet dinner featuring 15+ veg and non-veg dishes.

As the stars twinkle above, City Smart drops you back at your centralized pickup location by 9:30 PM, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

This standard package is a steal at AED 50 per person, saving you AED 15.

Pickup by luxury bus from eight convenient locations in Dubai and Sharjah ensures a seamless start to your adventure.

City Smart, with its 4.7-star rating from satisfied customers , guarantees a high-quality and hassle-free desert experience.

Coming Attractions: Details About Our Standard Desert Tour Selection:

Basic Desert Safari Deals

Premium packages:.

For those seeking an extra dose of thrill and luxury, City Smart’s Premium Packages unlock a deeper immersion into the heart of the desert.

Imagine traversing the golden dunes in your own private 4×4, feeling the adrenaline rush of dune bashing as the sun dips below the horizon.

Capture breathtaking sunset photos, then indulge in unlimited soft drinks, tea, and coffee as you unwind beneath the starry sky.

The adventure continues with free camel rides and sandboarding, followed by intricate henna artistry adorning your skin.

And what’s a desert experience without a traditional Sheesha puff?

As captivating live shows mesmerize you with belly dancing, Tanura, fire, and Arabic culture, you’ll savor a delectable BBQ and international buffet dinner – 15+ dishes catering to every palate.

City Smart’s Premium Packages offer all this and more for just AED 90 per person, saving you AED 60 . Enjoy convenient pickup from anywhere in Dubai or Sharjah, ensuring a seamless start to your unforgettable escapade.

This package is suitable for all ages, promising memories that will last a lifetime.

An Overview of Our Premium Desert Safari Experience:

Premium Desert Safari Packages

Vip packages: immerse in desert luxury with city smart.

Crave an experience that elevates your Dubai desert safari beyond the ordinary? City Smart’s VIP packages unveil a world of exclusive pampering amidst the golden sands.

Imagine escaping the city’s bustle in your private 4×4, whisked away to a secluded desert haven for an overnight adventure.

Indulge in personalized service: Your dedicated guide curates moments tailored to your desires, weaving a narrative of Arabian magic.

Gourmet dining beneath a canopy of stars replaces the standard buffet, where you savor exquisite dishes crafted with the finest ingredients.

Thrill and tranquility meet: Your desert escapade blends exhilarating dune bashing with serene sunset camel rides.

Capture the breathtaking beauty of the shifting sands during a private quad bike expedition, before unwinding with a relaxing henna session.

Cultural immersion awaits: As twilight paints the dunes in vibrant hues, our live shows transport you to the heart of ancient traditions.

Two belly dance and Tanura performances, alongside fire shows and an enthralling Arabic cultural showcase, weave a tapestry of captivating entertainment.

Unwind in desert opulence: Your night concludes with a lavish BBQ and international buffet dinner served under the twinkling desert sky.

Retire to your luxurious camp accommodations, lulled to sleep by the whispers of the wind through the dunes.

Experience unmatched exclusivity: City Smart’s VIP packages redefine desert luxury. At AED 190 per person (down from AED 300), this unforgettable adventure promises memories that will linger long after you return to the city lights.

Here’s a glance at what awaits you in the Premium Package:

VIP Desert Safari Packages

Thrill & tranquility: dubai desert safari excursions:, dune bashing and adrenaline-pumping adventures:.

Buckle up for a heart-pounding rollercoaster of sand. Dubai’s desert isn’t just for camel rides and sunset photos.

It’s a playground for adrenaline junkies, where towering dunes become your personal roller coaster.

Imagine gripping the wheel of a powerful 4×4 as it conquers these golden giants, sending you soaring in exhilaration.

Professional drivers, experts in navigating the sandy expanse, ensure your adventure is thrilling yet safe.

Feel the rush of gravity as your jeep tackles steep inclines, then whoops with glee as you plummet down sandy slopes.

The wind whips through your hair, the world blurs into a kaleidoscope of gold and blue, and the only sound is your laughter and the roar of the engine.

It’s pure, unadulterated fun, guaranteed to leave you grinning from ear to ear.

Want to conquer the dawn? Opt for a morning dune bashing adventure . Watch the sun paint the desert in fiery hues as you carve your own path through the dunes.

Or, for ultimate privacy and control, upgrade to a private jeep, where you and your closest crew can be king (or queen) of the sandcastle.

Dune bashing isn’t just a thrill ride; it’s a connection to the wild spirit of the desert.

It’s a chance to test your limits, embrace the unexpected, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, buckle up, adventurer, and let the dunes set your heart racing.

Camel Riding and Traditional Encounters:

Imagine swaying gently across the golden sands, perched atop a majestic ship of the desert.

Camel rides offer a unique perspective on the Dubai landscape, revealing its vastness and tranquility at a peaceful pace.

These majestic beasts, woven into the tapestry of Bedouin life for millennia, offer a glimpse into the soul of Arabia.

Most desert safari packages include a 15-30 minute camel ride along designated routes, ensuring safety and comfort.

Picture yourself gliding past towering dunes, capturing stunning panoramic views in every direction.

Stop for photo opportunities, immortalizing your desert adventure, and perhaps even try your hand at traditional henna painting, adding a touch of Arabian flair to your skin.

This immersive experience isn’t just about the ride; it’s about connecting with a living symbol of resilience and tradition.

As you feel the gentle sway of the camel and listen to the soft jingle of its bells, let the desert’s serenity wash over you.

This is a chance to slow down, appreciate the simple beauty of the landscape, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Remember, camel riding is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, making it a family-friendly activity.

So, saddle up and embark on this unforgettable journey into the heart of the Arabian desert.

Serene Sunset Dinners and Stargazing Under the Desert Sky:

As the fiery sun dips below the horizon, painting the endless dunes in hues of crimson and gold, prepare to step into a scene straight out of Arabian lore.

Welcome to the heart of the desert, where a magical Bedouin-style camp awaits, its warm luminescence beckoning like an oasis in the twilight.

Plush carpets welcome your bare feet, camel-skin tents bathed in playful lantern glow.

Underneath a tapestry of a million twinkling stars, gather around a crackling bonfire, sharing stories and laughter with newfound friends.

Belly dancers swirl in vibrant silks, their rhythmic movements mirroring the whispers of the desert wind.

The hypnotic beats of traditional drums draw you into a mesmerizing trance, while fire dancers paint fleeting trails of light against the inky sky.

Each performance is a celebration of ancient heritage, a glimpse into the soul of Arabia.

Savor a feast fit for a sultan, where aromatic lamb kebabs meet tender grilled vegetables, and fluffy flatbreads soak up the flavors of spiced tagines.

Delight in sweet dates and delicate pastries, each bite a testament to the warmth and hospitality of the desert people.

This is where time slows down, where the magic of the night mingles with the whispers of the dunes.

In this Bedouin camp, under the watchful gaze of stars, you’ll paint memories that shimmer brighter than desert sunsets, long after you return home.

Beyond the Basics: Unique Activities for Adventurers:

For those craving an extra adrenaline rush beyond the standard desert safari experience, City Smart offers a smorgasbord of thrilling add-on activities.

Imagine soaring above the golden dunes in a majestic hot air balloon , painting the sunrise sky with vibrant hues as you witness the vastness of the desert from a breathtaking perspective.

This ethereal experience, ideal for romantics and photography enthusiasts, promises unforgettable memories.

Craving some high-octane excitement? Buckle up for a quad biking excursion across the undulating dunes, feeling the wind whip through your hair as you conquer sandy slopes and unleash your inner speed demon.

This adrenaline-pumping adventure is perfect for families with older children and thrill-seeking groups.

For those seeking a deeper connection with the desert’s heritage, embark on a captivating falconry experience.

Witness the majestic beauty and breathtaking hunting prowess of these revered birds, learning about their ancient traditions and cultural significance in the region.

This unique encounter is ideal for nature lovers and history buffs, offering a glimpse into the fascinating world of falconry.

These are just a taste of the exciting options available.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature enthusiast, or a culture buff, City Smart’s desert safari packages can be customized to cater to your unique desires, transforming your Dubai adventure into an unforgettable expedition.

Contact our friendly team today to craft your perfect desert escapade.

Planning Your Dream Dubai Desert Safari:

Choosing the right Dubai desert safari package can feel like crossing a sand dune – exhilarating, yes, but potentially tricky! Worry not, fellow traveler, for this guide is your compass.

Let’s navigate budget, preferences, and travel style to find your ideal desert experience.

Thrill seekers, rejoice. Premium packages, with their private 4x4s and extended dune bashing, let you unleash your inner rally driver.

Budget-conscious explorers, fear not. Standard packages offer the essential sunset escapade, complete with dune thrills, camel rides, and starlit feasts.

Family-friendly adventures prioritize gentle sand play and cultural shows, ensuring little dunesters have a blast too.

Packing light? Loose, comfortable clothing is key. Think breathable fabrics and sun protection – hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are desert essentials.

Bring a light scarf to cover your head during sandstorms, and comfortable shoes for exploring.

A camera with a sand-proof case captures those magical sunset moments, while a portable charger ensures your battery doesn’t get lost in the dunes.

Safety first. Listen to your guide’s instructions, stay hydrated, and avoid straying far from the group. Remember, the desert may look vast, but respect its delicate ecosystem. Leave no trace behind, and enjoy the beauty responsibly.

Craving an extra dose of magic? Upgrade to a private car for an intimate desert escape.

Spend the night under a canopy of stars with an overnight package, waking to sunrise over the dunes.

For a truly authentic experience, consider a Bedouin camp stay, immersing yourself in the nomadic culture.

Remember, your desert adventure is yours to design. So, grab your sense of wonder, choose your perfect package, and get ready to be swept away by the magic of Dubai’s golden dunes.

Exclusive Deals and Last-Minute Adventures:

Thrill seekers and last-minute explorers, rejoice. City Smart has your back with exclusive deals and incredible desert adventures.

Forget rigid schedules and limited options; we cater to spontaneous spirits who crave a taste of Arabian magic, even on short notice.

Whether you’re flying in for a fleeting layover or simply craving a whirlwind desert escape, our combo deals are designed to fuel your wanderlust.

Imagine soaring down fiery dunes in a 4×4, feeling the wind whip through your hair as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the desert in a riot of colors.

This isn’t just a fleeting thrill; it’s an unforgettable memory etched in sand and etched in your heart.

Our exclusive desert safari combo deals ensure you don’t miss out on this transformative experience.

Think: sunset camel rides, henna swirls adorning your hands, and the rhythmic beat of drums echoing under a canopy of stars.

Our combo deals packages pack all the desert essentials into a compact, action-packed adventure.

Dune bashing, sandboarding, live shows, and a sumptuous BBQ spread await, offering a complete sensory feast.

So, how does it work? Browse our selection of last-minute deals, ranging from budget-friendly options to VIP indulgences.

Choose an adventure that fits your timeframe and budget, and within minutes, you’ll be whisked away into the heart of the Arabian desert.

No need for lengthy planning or agonizing over missed opportunities – City Smart’s combo deals are tailor-made for impulsive explorers like you.

Remember, adventure doesn’t always require meticulous planning. Sometimes, the most magical moments are born from seizing the day.

With City Smart’s exclusive deals, you can turn a spontaneous whim into an unforgettable desert escapade.

So, what are you waiting for? Let the wind guide you, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Embrace the Enchantment: Embark on Your Dubai Desert Safari

The sun dips low, casting long shadows across the golden dunes.

A thrill tingles down your spine as your Land Cruiser conquers the sand, laughter erupting as you crest a peak and witness the fiery horizon.

This, dear traveler, is only the beginning of your unforgettable desert safari Dubai.

Imagine yourself enveloped in the magic of Arabian nights.

Picture henna designs adorning your hands, camel bells clinking rhythmically as you traverse the silent sands, and the hypnotic sway of belly dancers under a canopy of stars.

Each moment pulsates with adventure, from adrenaline-pumping dune bashing to serene sunset photo ops, creating memories that will dance in your soul long after you return home.

But wait, there’s more. Indulge in a lavish barbecue buffet under the twinkling night sky, savor flavors, and enjoy the enchanting rhythm of live music.

Whether you crave family-friendly fun or a romantic escape, a personalized Dubai Desert Safari package awaits you, carefully crafted to ignite your wanderlust and ignite your senses.

Don’t let this opportunity slip away. Book your Desert Safari today and step into a world of enchantment.

Let the golden sands whisper tales of adventure, the stars guide your way, and the memories you create become your most treasured souvenirs.

Embrace the magic, dear traveler, and embark on your unforgettable Dubai Desert Safari.

What types of Dubai Desert Safari packages are available?

City Smart offers a variety of packages to suit every budget and travel style. From budget-friendly Standard options with dune bashing and cultural shows to luxurious Premium packages with private transportation and gourmet meals, you’ll find the perfect desert escape for your group. Check out our Desert Safari Packages section for detailed information on each offering.

What should I wear on a Dubai Desert Safari?

Comfort is key. Opt for loose, breathable clothing like cotton or linen shirts and pants. Wear comfortable shoes you can walk and climb sand dunes in. During the cooler evenings, bring a light jacket or scarf. Remember, desert sun can be strong, so don’t forget a hat and sunscreen.

Is a Dubai Desert Safari safe for children?

Absolutely! Many of our packages are family-friendly and cater to children of all ages. Some even offer camel rides and sandboarding activities especially tailored for young adventurers. We prioritize safety and ensure all activities are supervised by experienced guides.

When is the best time for a Dubai Desert Safari?

The cooler months from October to April offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful sunsets. However, desert safaris are available year-round, with each season offering its unique charm. Evening safaris provide stunning sunset views, while morning safaris allow you to explore the dunes before the heat intensifies.

What can I expect from City Smart Desert Safaris?

We’re committed to providing exceptional experiences for our guests. Expect experienced and friendly guides, comfortable and safe transportation, exciting activities, and delicious meals. We are passionate about sharing the magic of the Dubai desert and strive to create lasting memories for every adventurer.

Conclusion:

A Dubai Desert Safari with City Smart is more than just a trip – it’s an adventure that ignites your senses and creates memories that will last a lifetime.

From heart-pounding dune bashing to enchanting cultural experiences, we offer a journey into the heart of Arabia that will leave you breathless.

So, book your escape today and embrace the magic of the desert.

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Desert safari dubai.

Desert Safari Dubai , a 6 Hours Tour in the Desert of Dubai that is dipped in the rich sauce of thrill and excitement.  The trip includes the activities like Belly Dancing, Dune Bashing, Tanura Dance, Sand Boarding, Camel Riding and Horse Riding. Not only is this but your palate is also taken care of, mouthwatering BBQ Dinner with Veg and non-Veg Optional Dishes are served during your Evening Desert Safari Tour.

A fascinating travel experience in Dubai’s desert is just one click away to enjoy hell lot of activities easily. From camel riding to belly dancing, to taking snaps of mesmerizing sunsets, Dubai Desert Safari is a complete package for a person who wants to get entertained perfectly.

We offers the most advanced and matchless selection of Adventure Tours and Desert Safari in Dubai. We are the most trusted Tour Operator in Dubai . Desert Safari Dubai is an exceptional attraction for visitors who visit Dubai and is graded as the top tour in Dubai. GoDubai proudly presents a wide range of affordable packages for Dubai’s Famous Desert Safari   to ensure that a tourist can check out the destination in the best possible place.

You can get mesmerized by a perfect sun rise ( Morning Desert Safari ) or an eloquent sunset ( Evening Desert Safari ) or the twinkling stars embellishing the sky at night ( Overnight Desert Safari ) by choosing any Desert Safari deal you opt for. The perfect part is you don’t have to bear an expensive amount to cherish all this fun. The prices are way affordable as we do care of your pockets.

Dubai, A Magnificent Arabian Desert​

The Arabian Desert has his own beauty, which attracts people towards itself. It grasps an astounding and alluring excellence that interests a huge number of individuals, mostly tourists and adventurers who need to know the shrouded fortune of desert, and are dependable in interest, to investigate new things, without anyone else. Discover your Craft Enthusiasm by influencing the conventional Henna to body workmanship in your satisfying hands for nothing. Fuel up yourself and serve your longings into our Stunning Universal Buffet for the veggie lover and non-vegan with the bit of Flame broiled Grill (BBQ).

When the Sun rises and start giving its glowing rising warm shadows to the desert, and after few hours it sets back, all the shines and pretty movement transfers to the moon and glowing stars, the desert at that time, is on tips beauty peak that is the time to watch and experience all in front of your eyes. If this appeals you, then what are you waiting for? We have the Cheapest Desert Safari Deals for you, to enjoy this beautiful moment, and avail the Best Desert Safari in Dubai .

Dubai is famous for its adventurous life and it has a lot to offer the people which loves to explore and experiment with new stuff. Dubai Desert safari is one of its major attractions and there are several companies that offer some of the most attractive looking packages, but it depends how much of it is going to be there in reality. What’s there on the paper, on the website might not be there in real and for that we aim to be who we are in on ground too. We only promise what we are capable and aims at providing our customer with the best experience that they will cherish for a lifetime and the one which will make them a customer for a lifetime.

All our guests are extremely happy with the services we are providing. Your comfort, care, and protection with a complete dose of entertainment is our topmost priority. Our customer support representatives are available 24/7 to help you select an ideal offer according to your personal preference.

Desert Safari Deals

Our Hand Picked Desert Safari Dubai Deals for you!

• Centralized Bus Pickup
• Dune Bashing in 4x4 LandCruiser
• Welcome Tea, Coffee, Water
• Live Shows Including Belly Dance, Tanura Dance, Fire Show
• SandBoarding
• Veg & Non-Veg Dinner with BBQ
• Henna Tattoo (Female Only)
• Arabic Dress Photogrphy

Advance Deal

• 4x4 Home/Hotel Pickup

Premium Deal

• 4x4 Pickup + ATV Quad Bike

24x7 Customer Service

• +971 52 65 65207
• +971 55 698 7172

Picture Gallery

Dubai Desert Safari Overview

Seamless pick & drop service.

Your journey begins with convenience at its core. Depending on your chosen package, we offer a hassle-free pick-up and drop-off from your home, hotel, or designated meeting locations. Step into comfort as we transport you to a world of adventure.

Exhilarating Dune Bashing

Strap in for a heart-thumping dune bashing experience! Our powerful 4×4 Land Cruisers defy gravity, scaling the towering sand dunes before a thrilling descent. It’s an adrenaline-fueled roller coaster ride on nature’s own sand hills, offering a rush like no other.

Camel Trekking: The Desert's Rhythm

Embrace the desert’s soul on a camel trek, a timeless journey across the serene dunes. This is your chance to experience the desert as the ancient nomads did, culminating in a delightful Arabic buffet dinner set against an enchanting desert backdrop.

Enchanting Desert Bedouin Camp

Our adventure crescendos at the authentic Bedouin camp, a true Arabian retreat. Here, after your dune bashing, camel and horse riding, or ATV quad bike adventure, you’ll be enveloped in the warmth of traditional Arabian hospitality and entertainment.

Refreshing Arabian Delights

Upon arrival, refresh yourself with aromatic Arabic Qehwa, Tea, and Coffee, accompanied by unlimited water to rejuvenate your spirits. It’s a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage, welcoming you into the heart of the desert.

Lavish Buffet Dinner with BBQ

Indulge in a sumptuous buffet dinner featuring an array of 15 delectable dishes. From mouth-watering BBQ delights to a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including salads and classic Arabic dishes, every palate is in for a treat.

Captivating Live Entertainment Shows

Be mesmerized by our live entertainment, including the swirling Tanura Dance, two enchanting Belly Dance shows, and a breathtaking Fire Show. These performances are not just shows; they are a celebration of the rich Arabian culture.

Traditional Arabic Costumes for a Memorable Photo

Immerse yourself in the local culture by donning Traditional Arabic Costumes. It’s more than just a photo opportunity; it’s a chance to live a piece of Arabian history and create memories that last a lifetime.

Go Dubai Desert Safari Reviews

What our honorable guests say about our services, based on 1000+ real reviews.

Desert Safari - Inclusions & Exclusions

Free inclusions.

• Dune Bashing
• Sand-Boarding
• Henna Painting (Limited)
• Belly Dance with Traditional Music
• Fire Show & Tanura Dance
• Short Camel Ride
• Sheesha (Hubble Bubble) Smoking Facilty
• Welcome Arabic Tea / Coffee / Water
• BBQ Dinner - Veg & non-Veg Dishes
• Fresh Fruits & Sweet

Exclusions (Additionally Payable)

• Bar Counter
• Unlimited Henna Painting (AED 20)
• Sheesha (Hookah) at your table (AED 50)
• Quad Bike (AED 150)
• Dune Buggy Ride
• Long Camel Ride (AED 20)
• Pictures with Falcon (AED 10)
• Horse Ride (AED 20)

Schedule & Timing

• Pick up Time: 02:00 PM - 2:30 PM
• Drop Off Time: 08:30 PM - 09:30 PM
• Total Duration: 06:00 Hrs (Approx)

Payment Method

• Cash Payments - Upon Pick up
• ATM / Online Transfer Accepted

Buffet Food Menu in Desert Safari

Veg Samosa & Falafel with Mint Sauce

Hammus Garnished With Olive Oil Fatoush with Sliced Cucumber Pasta Salad Flavored With Oregano Rocca Leaves Salad & Colslow Red / Green Cabbage & Mint Chutney / Raita

Fresh Cut Fruits & Rice Pudding

Biryani Rice & Steam Rice Channa Masala Mix Veg. Curry Asian Noodles Dal Tadke Wali Sauteed Veg

BBQ Chicken Chicken Tikka Mutton Seekh Kabab

Desert Safari Video Highlights

Desert camp picture gallery.

Bus Pickup Locations For Desert Safari

• Day 2 Day Center Opposite Deira City Center
• LuLu Hypermarket Behind Mall Of Emirates – Al Barsha
• Spinneys Supermarket Next To Burjuman Center
• Dragon Mart 1 Adnoc Gas Station Al Awir Road
• Sharjah City Center Al Wahda Road, Sharjah
• Sharjah Mega Mall Near Immigration Office
• Sahara Center Al Nahda St. Near Ramada Hotel
• Nesto Super Market Opp. Kalba Fire Station

Why Choose Desert Safari Dubai? A Promise of Unparalleled Experience

We are not just blabbering around. It’s our responsibility to host you in the best way we can. So, some of our premium desert safari services include:

• Direct Booking for Hassle-Free Experience

At GO Dubai Desert Safari , we believe in simplicity and transparency. That’s why we’ve streamlined our booking process. No middlemen, no confusion. Just you and us, making your dream desert adventure a reality. Select your ideal package directly with us and embark on a journey tailored just for you.

• No Hidden Costs, Just Pure Adventure

With us, what you see is what you get. Our packages are all-inclusive, with a clear, upfront cost. Once you’ve paid, that’s it – no surprise fees, no hidden charges. Just a seamless and trustworthy experience from start to finish, ensuring your adventure is as carefree as the desert breeze.

• Pickup From Your Doorstep – Luxury Meets Convenience

Your adventure begins at your own doorstep. Our professional drivers in premium vehicles will be there to whisk you away to the desert, no matter where you are. We break the bounds of location dependency, making your convenience our top priority. Just book and let us handle the rest.

• Market-Leading Packages with Unmatched Value

We take pride in our competitively priced desert safari packages , each crafted to offer more value, more excitement, and more memories. Not only do we guarantee affordability, but we also sprinkle extra bonuses and privileges, especially if you choose to explore multiple packages with us.

About Like Tours: Your Ultimate Adventure Partner in Dubai

Unveiling the Best of Dubai with Like Tourism

At Like Tourism, we’re not just another tour operator; we’re your gateway to the most exhilarating adventures in Dubai. Our meticulously curated Adventure Tours and Desert Safaris are unmatched in their excitement and uniqueness. As Dubai’s most trusted tour operator, we ensure that your experience with us is nothing short of extraordinary. Our Desert Safari Dubai is celebrated as the pinnacle of Dubai tours, promising unforgettable moments in the heart of the desert.

Who We Are? The Pioneers of Exceptional Experiences

In a city teeming with tourism offerings, GoDubaiDesertSafari stands out as a beacon of innovation and excellence. Rooted in Dubai with years of expertise, we’ve welcomed thousands of tourists, each becoming a part of our growing family. Our mission is simple yet profound: to bridge the gap in the market with tours that are not just trips, but lifetime experiences.

Crafting Memories, One Tour at a Time

Our portfolio goes beyond the ordinary. From the thrill of Dune Buggy Tours to the charm of City Tours , the enchantment of Sightseeing Tours , and the elegance of Dhow Cruise Dinners , we offer a spectrum of experiences. What sets us apart? Our flexibility to tailor tours just for you. Customization is our forte, ensuring that every tour aligns perfectly with your preferences, schedule, and expectations. Your satisfaction is our reward, and we go the extra mile to ensure every moment with us is a treasure trove of memories.

Imagine embarking on an exhilarating journey through the heart of Dubai’s desert. A Desert Safari is an unforgettable adventure filled with thrilling activities, cultural performances, and breathtaking landscapes. It’s not just a tour; it’s a journey into the soul of the desert.

Dune Bashing is the ultimate adrenaline rush! Picture yourself in a 4×4 vehicle, conquering towering sand dunes, ascending and descending with thrilling speed. It’s like a rollercoaster ride, but in the vast, open desert.

Experience the desert in the most traditional way! Our Camel Rides offer a serene journey across the dunes, giving you a glimpse of the timeless desert life. The ride duration strikes the perfect balance, ensuring you savor every moment without rushing.

We welcome young explorers! Children under a certain age can enjoy the safari without any ticket charges. Please contact us for the specific age limit details.

Prepare for a day of adventure! Pack light but smart: sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat for the daytime, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget your camera to capture the magic!

Dress comfortably for an active day in the desert. Light, breathable clothing is ideal for the day, with something warmer for the evening. And remember, sturdy shoes are your best friend on the sands!

Booking your adventure is easy with our flexible payment options. We accept various methods to ensure a hassle-free transaction. Contact us for more details on how to complete your booking seamlessly.

Ready for the desert safari of your dreams? Booking is easy! Just contact us through our website, phone, or email, and we’ll guide you through a simple, swift booking process.

Our Desert Safari tours are perfectly timed to give you the best experience of the desert’s beauty, culture, and adventure. Contact us for specific tour duration and make the most of your time in the desert!

It depends on the package you select, usually its AED 99 Per Person for Adult and 90 AED for Child above 3 years with pick & drop from your home/hotel anywhere in Dubai.

Top Selling Tours!

Our adventures don’t just stop at the desert. We also offer tours to some of the UAE’s most mesmerizing locations. Discover the beauty and diversity of the region with our top-selling tours!

Self Drive Desert Safari

40 aed | $12 per person.

Dune Buggy Dubai

Starting from 600 aed | 165 $.

OverNight Desert Safari

250 aed | $68 per person.

MORNING DESERT SAFARI

150 aed | $40 per person.

HATTA MOUNTAIN SAFARI

200 aed | $55 per person.

MUSANDAM TOUR​

LIKE TOURISM LLC

Office 107 – Al Saoud Building – Al Qusais Industrial 4th Dubai, UAE

• +971 526565207
• +971 556987172
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Desert Safari

• Morning Safari
• Overnight Safari
• Musandam Tour
• Abu Dhabi Tour

Licensed Company

Copyright © 2023 – All Rights Reserved Like Tourism LLC.

Survival Guide: What to Pack for a Dubai Desert Safari

G etting ready for a desert safari is fun, but being ready is super important. In this short guide, we easily explain the must-haves. We’ll help you pack smartly for the very hot desert weather. Find out what you need for a comfy and enjoyable time in the Arabian sun. Whether you’re going for the first time or you’re a desert pro, our guide is your ticket to a great Dubai desert safari. Let’s make sure your trip to the dunes is something you’ll always remember.

Light Clothes: Stay Cool in the Heat

When getting ready for a Dubai Desert Safari, picking the right clothes is super important. Wear loose, long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect from the sun while letting air in. A broad hat adds extra protection for your face and neck. And don’t forget comfy closed-toe shoes for walking on the desert ground. Picking the right clothes means you can enjoy the adventure without feeling too heavy or too hot. If you want to make your desert experience even more memorable, you can also book a night stay in Dubai Desert and sleep under the stars in a luxurious tent.

Sun Guard: Protect Yourself from the Sun

In the desert sun, protecting yourself is a must. Bring high SPF sunscreen to shield your skin. Use lip balm with sunblock too. Sunglasses with UV protection not only keep your eyes safe but also make things more comfortable in the bright light. Consider a light scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders during the sunniest hours. With these sun-smart essentials, you’ll be ready to enjoy the beautiful desert without worrying about sunburn or discomfort.

Stay Hydrated: Keep Cool in the Desert

The desert is dry and hot, so staying hydrated is super important. Think about using a hydration backpack for hands-free convenience. Drinks with electrolytes can help replace minerals lost through sweating. Staying hydrated stops dehydration in the dry environment. Drink water regularly, especially during breaks. By keeping hydrated, you’ll have energy, stay alert, and fully enjoy the Dubai Desert Safari.

Good Shoes: Comfort for Desert Walks

Walking in the desert needs the right shoes. Choose comfy, closed-toe shoes with a strong sole to protect your feet from hot sand and rocks. 

Open shoes like sandals might seem good, but they don’t cover and protect your feet from the weather. Pick shoes that give support and stability, making your journey through the desert more enjoyable and safer. Whether you’re on the dunes or exploring a desert camp, the right shoes give you comfort and safety.

Useful Extras: Hats, Sunglasses, and More

Practical extras make your desert safari better. A wide hat doesn’t just look nice; it also keeps your face and neck safe from the sun. 

Quality sunglasses with UV protection cut glare and keep your eyes safe. Think about a light scarf or shawl for extra sun coverage. And a small backpack is handy to carry your stuff, keeping your hands free. These practical extras add usefulness and comfort to your desert adventure.

Snack Time: Good Food for the Safari

Eating the right snacks is crucial for a good desert safari. Pack light and non-perishable snacks like nuts, dried fruits, and energy bars. These quick snacks provide energy without making you feel heavy. Check that your snacks can handle the desert heat to stay fresh. Having different snacks keeps you energized all day, so you enjoy the adventure without getting slowed down by hunger.

Take Pictures: Capture the Desert Moments

Taking photos on your Dubai Desert Safari is a must, so having a camera is important. Bring a small, tough camera to capture the amazing landscapes and special moments. 

Ensure your camera has lots of battery, and carry extra memory cards so you don’t miss taking any pictures. A camera with zoom can get close-ups of desert plants and animals. With your camera, you’ll remember the beauty of the desert long after your safari is done.

Walking on Sand: Best Footwear Choices

Moving on sandy dunes needs the right footwear. Select shoes that cover your feet to prevent sand from entering and causing discomfort. Light hiking boots or athletic shoes with a closed-toe work great. 

The closed design not only protects your feet but also gives stability on uneven ground. Avoid open-toe shoes or sandals since they can be uncomfortable and make it hard to walk on the sandy landscape. Choosing the right footwear makes your time in the desert sands more enjoyable and easier.

First Aid Basics: Handling Common Desert Issues

A prepared desert adventurer has basic first aid stuff. Pack a small kit with things like bandages, wipes, and pain relievers. Sunburn cream and blister pads help with issues in the desert. 

Being ready with first aid means you can fix small problems fast, so you can focus on the safari fun instead of discomfort. While the desert is amazing, it’s smart to be ready for unexpected situations with a small and useful first aid kit.

Night in the Desert: What to Bring for Camping and Relaxing

As the sun sets and the desert gets cooler, getting ready for the night is important. Pack a light jacket or shawl to stay warm when it’s cooler. A small flashlight is good for moving around the campsite or exploring after dark. 

Think about bringing a portable phone charger to keep your devices charged. If you plan to camp, a light sleeping bag and travel pillow add comfort to your night in the desert. Packing thoughtfully for the night means you’ll have a cozy and enjoyable evening under the starry skies of the Dubai desert.

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