A Desert Safari Dubai combines adventure, Emirati culture, and desert landscapes into one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for dune bashing, camel rides, or stargazing, this guide breaks down every detail you need before booking.
What Is a Desert Safari in Dubai?
A Desert Safari is a guided excursion into the Dubai desert that offers a mix of activities like:
- 4×4 dune bashing
- Camel rides
- Sandboarding
- BBQ dinners
- Henna painting
- Traditional dance shows (Tanoura & Belly Dance)
Safaris are operated in desert regions such as Lahbab Desert, Al Marmoom, and Dubai Conservation Reserve.
Types of Desert Safaris in Dubai
| Type | Time Slot | Activities Included | Best For |
| Morning Safari | 7 AM – 11 AM | Dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding | Adventure lovers |
| Evening Safari | 3 PM – 9 PM | Full package: show, dinner, rides, henna, BBQ | First-time visitors |
| Overnight Safari | 3 PM – 9 AM (next day) | Stargazing, tent stay, breakfast | Romantic experiences |
| Private Safari | Flexible | Custom package, private vehicle | Families & VIPs |
| Premium Safari | Afternoon–Evening | Desert camp with upgraded dinner & lounge seating | Luxury seekers |
Some also offer quad biking, dune buggy, or hot air balloon rides at an additional cost.
What’s Included in a Standard Evening Desert Safari?
Most evening safaris include the following:
✅ Pickup and drop-off in a 4×4 vehicle
✅ 15–30 minutes of dune bashing
✅ Camel ride (short trial)
✅ Sandboarding
✅ Photo stop in desert
✅ Traditional dress photography
✅ Henna tattooing
✅ Live shows: Belly Dance, Tanoura, Fire Show
✅ BBQ Buffet Dinner (veg & non-veg)
✅ Arabic coffee, dates, soft drinks
Upgrades often include VIP seating, shisha lounge, and longer camel rides.
What Should You Wear on a Desert Safari?
🧕 Recommended Clothing:
- Lightweight cotton clothes
- Closed shoes or sandals
- Sunglasses & scarf for sand
- A light jacket for evenings (Oct–Mar)
Avoid dresses or high heels. Sand gets everywhere.
Best Time for a Desert Safari in Dubai
Dubai’s desert safaris operate year-round, but October to March offers the most pleasant weather.
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) | Notes |
| October–March | 15–30 | Best weather, clear skies |
| April–June | 30–40 | Hot, avoid midday safaris |
| July–September | 40–45+ | Very hot, limited bookings |
✅ Sunset Safaris are the most popular due to golden-hour photography and cooler temperatures.
Cost of Desert Safari in Dubai
Pricing depends on the provider, package, and customizations.
| Safari Type | Average Price (AED) |
| Morning Safari | 120 – 180 |
| Evening Safari | 150 – 250 |
| Overnight Safari | 300 – 450 |
| Private Safari | 500 – 900 (per group) |
| Premium Safari | 300 – 600 |
🎟 You can compare and book Dubai attraction tickets online for the best deals.
Where Do Desert Safaris Take Place?
The top desert safari locations in Dubai include:
- Lahbab Desert – Red dunes, great for adventure
- Al Awir Desert – Close to the city
- Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve – Eco-safaris and wildlife
- Al Marmoom Desert – Private & premium setups
Pickup is usually from hotels in Deira, Downtown, Dubai Marina, and Bur Dubai. Those staying near Burjuman Metro Station or Union Metro Station can request nearby pickup points.
How to Book a Desert Safari in Dubai?
You can book:
- Directly from tour operators
- Via platforms like GetYourGuide, Viator, or Klook
- Through your hotel concierge
- Using attraction pass bundles
You may also explore options with combo packages on:
Dubai attractions with multi-park passes
Top Desert Safari Tour Providers
Some trusted safari companies include:
- Platinum Heritage – Eco-luxury experiences in conservation zones
- OceanAir Travels – High-volume operator with solid reviews
- Orient Tours – Custom & family packages
- Desert Safari Dubai (Official) – Budget-to-luxury options
Always check reviews, pickup options, and inclusions before confirming.
Tips for First-Time Safari Visitors
🟢 Arrive early if you’re self-driving to the meeting point
🟢 Avoid heavy meals before dune bashing
🟢 Keep cameras and phones secured from sand
🟢 Follow safety instructions during all rides
🟢 Drink lots of water, especially if going in summer
If you’re traveling with kids, check this guide on Dubai attractions for kids for ideas to combine with your safari.
Nearby Attractions You Can Combine with a Desert Safari
If you’re planning a full-day itinerary, combine the safari with:
- Cheapest attractions in Dubai
- Top 10 must-visit attractions in Dubai
- Cultural and historical attractions in Dubai
- Dubai Marina boat tour
- Night markets in Dubai
Some operators offer combo deals including desert safari + dhow cruise or Burj Khalifa tickets.
FAQs About Desert Safari Dubai
Is desert safari safe for kids and seniors?
Yes, but check with your provider. Skip dune bashing if you have back issues or motion sickness.
Can I do desert safari during Ramadan?
Yes, but shows may be limited. Only soft drinks are served.
Are vegetarian meals available?
Most operators provide vegetarian and even vegan BBQ options.
Is alcohol served?
Not always. Premium camps may offer it, but not during religious periods.
