Collection: Dubai Desert Safari Tours

The Dubai Desert Safari is one of the most iconic experiences available when visiting Dubai, offering a unique blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and the opportunity to see the stunning Arabian Desert up close. 

As you leave the glittering city behind, you'll find yourself in the vast desert, where you can enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities and experience the traditional Bedouin lifestyle.

The desert safari begins with a thrilling dune bashing ride in a 4x4 vehicle. As skilled drivers navigate the towering sand dunes, you’ll feel the excitement and rush of the ride. 

The 4x4 vehicles are specifically designed to handle the rugged terrain of the desert, providing you with an exhilarating and safe experience. 

This activity is ideal for those seeking a high-energy adventure in the desert, with drivers taking you on steep inclines and sharp declines, making for a fun and heart-pounding ride.

After the excitement of dune bashing, the experience continues with a camel ride, one of the most serene ways to explore the desert. Known as the “ships of the desert,” camels have been a part of Bedouin culture for centuries.

 Riding a camel through the sand dunes provides a slow, rhythmic journey that contrasts with the earlier adrenaline rush.

It’s also a great opportunity to snap some amazing photos of the desert landscape from a unique perspective. The camel ride is often accompanied by the opportunity to take pictures against the backdrop of the sunset, creating a truly magical experience.

In addition to camel riding, many desert safari packages offer other activities such as sandboarding. 

Similar to snowboarding but on sand, sandboarding allows you to ride down the desert dunes on a board. It's an activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and is often included in standard safari tours. 

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced boarder, sandboarding provides a great chance to have some fun and test your skills in the vast sand dunes of Dubai.

For those looking to delve deeper into the cultural side of the desert, many tours offer cultural performances at a Bedouin-style camp. 

After all the adventure, you’ll head to a traditional desert camp, where you can enjoy a BBQ dinner under the stars. 

The dinner is often a mix of local and international cuisine, including grilled meats, salads, and sweets, making for a feast that complements the desert ambiance. While enjoying your meal, you’ll be treated to live cultural performances, including belly dancing, tanoura dance, and a fire show. These performances showcase the rich traditions of the Emirati culture and make for an unforgettable part of the evening.

At the camp, you can also take part in other cultural activities, such as henna painting, which is a traditional form of body art that uses natural dyes to create intricate designs on the skin. 

You can also enjoy shisha smoking, which is a popular pastime in Dubai, especially during the cooler evenings.

For those looking for a luxury desert safari, many operators offer private vehicles, gourmet dining, and VIP services to enhance the experience. 

Luxury safaris often include additional touches like private camel rides, exclusive cultural shows, and even hot air balloon rides. 

These packages are designed for travelers who want to enjoy the desert in ultimate comfort and style, making it the perfect option for special occasions like anniversaries, birthdays, or honeymoons.

Dubai’s desert offers something for everyone, whether you’re after adventure, culture, or relaxation. Evening desert safaris are particularly popular as they allow you to watch the stunning sunset while enjoying the activities and then proceed to a camp for a BBQ dinner and cultural performances. 

If you prefer a more intimate and private experience, the luxury desert safaris offer an exclusive option with personalized services.

 For a more tranquil experience, the overnight safari offers the opportunity to sleep under the stars and wake up to the serenity and beauty of the desert.

In summary, a Dubai Desert Safari is an all-encompassing adventure that blends adrenaline with culture and luxury. 

Whether you’re looking for a thrilling dune bashing experience or a more relaxing camel ride and BBQ dinner, the desert offers a little bit of everything. 

It’s an essential part of any trip to Dubai and a memorable experience that you will cherish forever. Book your Dubai Desert Safari today and get ready to experinece on an unforgettable adventure.

Dubai offers a variety of desert safari types, each catering to different preferences, interests, and levels of luxury. Whether you’re after a thrilling adventure, a cultural immersion, or a luxurious desert retreat, Dubai has a safari experience that’s just right for you. Here’s an overview of the most popular types of desert safaris available:

Morning Desert Safari Dubai

Facilities and Amenities:

• Comfortable, air-conditioned 4x4 vehicles for a smooth ride.
• Basic but clean camp facilities with light refreshments provided.
• Restrooms available at the campsite.
  
  

Ideal For:
Ideal for early risers and those who want to experience the desert before the heat of the day. Perfect for families, solo travelers, and anyone looking for a peaceful desert experience without large crowds.

Activities:

• Dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle.
• Camel rides to experience the desert as the Bedouins did.
• Sandboarding on the stunning desert dunes.
  

Timing:
The Morning Desert Safari starts early, around 7:30 AM to 8:00 AM, and lasts for about 3–4 hours.

Inclusions (Meal Plan):

• Light refreshments (juice, water, tea, and light snacks) during the morning.
• No major meal is included in the morning safari, but you’ll enjoy refreshing beverages and a peaceful ride through the desert landscape.

Evening Desert Safari Dubai

Facilities and Amenities:

• Comfortable 4x4 vehicles for dune bashing.
• Traditional Bedouin-style camp equipped with seating, cushions, and carpets.
• Restrooms available at the camp.
  

Ideal For:
Best for travelers looking to experience the desert at sunset. Suitable for families, groups, and couples seeking a complete desert adventure with cultural shows.

Activities:

• Dune bashing in 4x4 vehicles.
• Camel ride across the dunes.
• Sandboarding for adrenaline seekers.
• Sunset photography for perfect desert pictures.

Timing:
Typically starts at 3:00 PM and runs until 9:00 PM, including a BBQ dinner at the camp.

Inclusions (Meal Plan):

• BBQ dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
• Soft drinks, tea, and coffee are available at the camp.
• Cultural activities such as belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and a fire show to complete the experience.

Overnight Desert Safari Dubai

Facilities and Amenities:

• Private 4x4 vehicles for a comfortable ride.
• Bedouin-style tents for overnight stays, complete with bedding and pillows.
• Private restroom facilities at the campsite.

Ideal For:
Perfect for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the desert experience. Great for couples or groups seeking a unique desert adventure with an overnight stay.

Activities:

• Dune bashing and camel riding.
• Sandboarding down the dunes.
• Stargazing and fire shows at the camp.
• Overnight stay under the stars in comfortable tents.

Timing:
The Overnight Desert Safari starts in the late afternoon, around 3:00 PM, and lasts until the following morning with a sunrise wake-up.

Inclusions (Meal Plan):

• BBQ dinner served at the desert camp.
• Breakfast the next morning with traditional Emirati dishes like ballet (sweet vermicelli) and dates.
• Hot beverages (tea, coffee, and soft drinks) provided during the evening and morning.
  

Book your Overnight Desert Safari here

Luxury Desert Safari Dubai

Facilities and Amenities:

• Private luxury 4x4 vehicles with a personal driver.
• Exclusive desert camp featuring air-conditioned tents, private seating, and VIP treatment.
• Restroom facilities with premium amenities.
  

Ideal For:

Perfect for luxury travelers, honeymooners, or anyone who wants to enjoy the desert in ultimate comfort. Ideal for those seeking a VIP experience with added luxury and privacy.

Activities:

• Private dune bashing experience in luxury vehicles.
• Exclusive camel rides.
• Private cultural shows and falconry demonstrations.
• Sandboarding and a relaxing BBQ dinner.

Timing:
Typically starts in the late afternoon around 3:00 PM and ends by 9:00 PM, but the tour can be extended depending on preferences.

Inclusions (Meal Plan):

• Gourmet BBQ dinner with a selection of international and traditional Emirati dishes.
• Premium beverages including alcoholic options (based on the package).
• Live cooking stations where chefs prepare fresh meals on-site.
  

Book your Luxury Desert Safari Dubai

Heritage Desert Safari Dubai

Facilities and Amenities:

• Travel in vintage 1950s Land Rovers for a nostalgic desert journey.
• Traditional Bedouin camp with authentic furnishings, creating a historic atmosphere.
• Restroom facilities available at the camp.
  

Ideal For:
Ideal for history buffs and culture enthusiasts who want to explore the desert’s heritage and experience the lifestyle of the Bedouin people. Perfect for travelers seeking a deeper cultural connection.

Activities:

• Vintage Land Rover ride across the desert.
• Camel ride and falconry demonstrations.
• Cultural activities like traditional cooking demonstrations and henna painting.
  

Timing:
The Heritage Desert Safari typically starts in the late afternoon and runs until the evening, allowing time for cultural performances and dinner.

Inclusions (Meal Plan):

• Traditional Emirati dinner with grilled meats, hummus, salads, and Arabic sweets.
• Arabic coffee and dates offered as a welcoming gesture at the camp.

Book your Heritage Desert Safari

Which Desert Safari Is Best in Dubai?

Choosing the best Dubai Desert Safari depends on your preferences, the type of adventure you’re seeking, and the experience you want to have in the desert.

With multiple types of desert safaris available, it’s important to pick the one that aligns with your expectations, schedule, and the activities you’d like to enjoy.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, there’s a perfect safari according to your needs.

Choosing the Right Desert Safari for You

To help you choose the best desert safari, consider the activities you’re most excited about, whether you prefer a relaxing ride or a high energy adventure.

If you want to experience the desert at its most peaceful, morning safaris are perfect. For the most comprehensive experience, the evening safari offers the best of both worlds adventure and cultural shows.

If you’re seeking exclusivity, the luxury safari offers the finest in service and comfort.

The cost of a Dubai Desert Safari can vary widely based on the type of safari you choose, the inclusions, and the level of luxury you desire. Generally, desert safari packages in Dubai are priced to accommodate a wide range of budgets, ensuring that both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a luxury experience can enjoy the desert adventure.

Pricing Breakdown:

Budget-Friendly Desert Safari

A basic evening desert safari typically costs between $45 to $75 per person. This price normally includes essential experiences such as dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner. It’s a fantastic option for travelers looking for an exciting yet affordable desert adventure without extra frills.

Luxury Desert Safari

For those seeking an exclusive experience, the luxury desert safari comes at a premium, typically ranging from $200 to $300 per person. This package includes private vehicles, VIP treatment, gourmet meals, and personalized experiences like private camel rides and cultural performances. It's the best option for those who want to experience the desert with extra comfort and style.

Overnight Desert Safari

An overnight desert safari generally costs around $100 to $200 per person. This package not only includes the regular activities like dune bashing and camel rides but also provides an overnight stay at a Bedouin-style camp, a BBQ dinner, and a traditional Emirati breakfast. It's perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the desert atmosphere for an extended period.

Specialty Packages (Quad Biking, Dune Buggies, etc.)

If you’re interested in adding extra activities like quad biking or dune buggy rides, expect to pay more. Quad biking in the desert typically costs $50 to $100 extra, while dune buggy rides range from $70 to $150 depending on the duration. These activities offer a thrilling adventure in addition to the regular safari experience.

Family and Group Discounts

Many desert safari providers offer group discounts or family packages, especially for families traveling with children or large groups. These packages typically provide a cost-effective way to enjoy the desert safari together while offering activities that cater to all ages. Some family-friendly safaris offer a more relaxed pace, making them ideal for young children and older travelers.

What’s Included in the Cost?

The price of most desert safaris includes key activities like dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and cultural performances. Many packages also include a BBQ dinner with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, as well as refreshments such as water, soft drinks, and tea. However, luxury packages often come with extra perks like gourmet meals, private transfers, and exclusive services.

Some tours may also include pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in a comfortable vehicle. This adds convenience and ensures that your desert experience is stress-free from start to finish.

Please read our complete guide on Dubai desert safari activities.

Factors Affecting the Cost:

Several factors contribute to the overall cost of your Dubai Desert Safari experience:

Time of Year:

Prices can fluctuate depending on the tourist season. The winter months (October to March) tend to have higher prices due to the perfect weather conditions, while the summer months (April to September) may offer lower prices due to higher temperatures.

Inclusions and Add-ons:

Additional activities like quad biking, dune buggy rides, and hot air ballooning can increase the cost of your safari. These add-ons are often available as optional upgrades for an extra thrill.

Tour Duration:

Longer safaris, such as overnight safaris, generally come at a higher cost than shorter, half-day safaris. This is because overnight safaris offer an extended desert experience, including accommodation and extra meals.

Is a Dubai Desert Safari Worth the Cost?

Absolutely! The Dubai Desert Safari offers an incredible value for what you pay. It’s one of the most memorable experiences in Dubai, offering a mix of adventure, culture, and luxury all in one. Whether you're seeking a budget-friendly option or a luxury experience, the safari provides something for everyone. The cultural performances, the delicious meals, and the unique chance to connect with the desert make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

One of the best parts of a Dubai Desert Safari is the camel ride. Camels, known as the "ships of the desert," have been used for centuries by the Bedouins to travel through the desert. 

Riding a camel gives you a slow, smooth way to see the desert, and it’s a peaceful way to connect with the land. This experience is one of the most traditional and unique activities you can do while in Dubai.

Camel Riding Through the Dubai Desert Riding a camel through the desert dunes is something you can’t miss. As you ride along the sand, you’ll feel the peaceful rhythm of the camel's movements. 

The ride is slow, giving you time to enjoy the desert’s quiet beauty. It’s also a great time for taking pictures with the stunning desert landscape in the background. 

The camel ride usually lasts 10 to 15 minutes, giving you just enough time to relax and take in the surroundings. It’s a simple yet unforgettable part of your desert safari.

Cultural Shows at the Desert Camp

 Along with the camel ride, your Dubai Desert Safari also includes cultural shows. These performances give you a glimpse into Emirati traditions. One of the most popular performances is belly dancing. 

In this dance, the performer uses her body to tell a story, moving gracefully to traditional Arabic music. The show often invites the audience to join in, making it a fun and interactive experience.

Tanoura Dance and Fire Show

 After the belly dancing, you will watch the Tanoura dance. This is a Sufi dance where the dancer spins around in colorful skirts. It looks like a beautiful swirl of colors and is a fascinating tradition. 

The fire show is the most exciting part of the evening. Performers twirl flaming poi and other props while dancing. 

This creates an amazing display of fire and light, and the crowd loves it. The fire show is thrilling and brings an exciting end to the night.

Henna Painting for Everyone

 Another fun cultural activity is henna painting. Henna is a natural dye that is used to create temporary tattoos on the skin. Skilled artists will paint beautiful designs on your hands, arms, or feet. 

These designs can last for up to two weeks. Henna painting is a tradition in many parts of the Middle East, and it’s a great way to take a piece of your desert experience home with you.

Why Camel Riding and Cultural Shows Are Special

The camel ride and cultural shows are essential parts of the Dubai Desert Safari because they offer more than just adventure. They also let you experience the culture of Dubai. Watching the belly dancers, riding camels, and seeing the Tanoura dance gives you a deeper understanding of the traditions that are so important to life in the UAE. These activities mix adventure and culture, making your desert safari complete and memorable.

The best time for a desert safari in Dubai is during the cooler months, from October to April when the temperatures are more comfortable. Morning safaris usually start early, around 5:30 to 6:00 AM, to avoid the midday heat and provide stunning sunrise views. Evening safaris typically begin in the late afternoon, around 3:00 to 4:00 PM, and continue into the night, allowing guests to enjoy the sunset and cooler evening temperatures.

The tours usually last around 6 hours, with pick-up at 03:30 PM and drop-off at 09:00 PM.

It is recommended to book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Comfortable clothing is recommended, such as light fabrics and casual wear. Closed-toe shoes are ideal for activities like dune bashing and sandboarding.

While there is no strict age limit, the tours may not be suitable for very young children or elderly individuals due to the bumpy nature of dune bashing.

Yes, there are plenty of opportunities for photography during the tour, including stunning desert landscapes, wildlife, and cultural performances.

Yes, a BBQ dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options is provided. Soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee are also available.

Dune bashing is an exhilarating off-road adventure where skilled drivers navigate 4x4 vehicles across the dunes at varying speeds.

Individuals with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women are advised to avoid dune bashing. It’s best to consult with your doctor if you have any concerns.

The tour may be rescheduled or canceled in extreme weather conditions for safety reasons. You will be informed and offered alternative dates or a full refund.

While you can wear a dress on a desert safari, it is not the most practical choice. It is recommended to wear comfortable and casual clothing that allows for ease of movement. Loose-fitting trousers or shorts paired with a t-shirt or long-sleeved shirt are ideal. If you choose to wear a dress, ensure it is loose-fitting and of modest length to keep you comfortable and protected from the sun.

Yes, All desert safari camps have washroom facilities available for guests. These facilities are usually clean and well-maintained, providing both standard toilets and handwashing areas. It is always a good idea to check with your tour operator about the availability of washrooms, especially if you have specific requirements.

A desert safari in Dubai is considered one of the must-do activities for visitors. It offers a unique blend of adventure, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. From the thrill of dune bashing and sandboarding to the serene experience of camel riding and watching the sunset over the dunes, there is something for everyone. The added cultural elements, such as traditional entertainment and a delicious BBQ dinner, enhance the overall experience, making it well worth the time and cost.