Best Desert Safari in Dubai | 10 Epic Desert Tours in Dubai
We know that a desert safari in Dubai is your dream; how could you possibly miss such an experience? It was the same for us when we visited the great city in the UAE, but well, we dreamt but didn’t know what to expect.
This is one of the main reasons we have decided to write a complete guide to the best Dubai desert safari, including the outstanding ones and our experiences and give you tips on how to make the journey memorable.
Going through how to plan the perfect Safari in Dubai desert, what to wear and activities you can expect to do in the Desert. Also, we will go over the fantastic possibilities that some of the best Dubai desert safari tours include in their packages. Definitely, it is worth doing a desert safari while in Dubai, but there is something you should prepare before embracing the journey.
You will be pleased to know that there is one very sustainable company in this guide, which we partnered with in our last trip to Dubai. It was fantastic, even if a bit pricey. Without further wording, let’s check together the perfect Dubai desert tour for you.
Things to know before booking a desert safari in Dubai
Before starting the journey on our vintage car through the Desert dunes of Dubai, we did a lot of research. Believe us, we searched all over the web to clear our minds and understand what to expect. It wasn’t easy; we have to admit. Our Dubai itinerary was jam-packed, so honestly, everything we read through multiple channels is now condensed within the below.
Oh dear, these are some of the most interesting information we wish we knew before starting our Dubai desert Safari.
What to expect from a Desert tour in Dubai
Embark on a journey that will leave you in awe of the mesmerising beauty of nature and the fascinating Emirati culture. Booking the best desert safari in Dubai is the ultimate way to explore the heart of the Arabian landscape.
Our comprehensive guide covers all aspects of your trip, ensuring that your adventure will exceed your expectations. Discover Dubai’s most recommended and sought-after tours, which offer a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern excitement. Experience the unforgettable and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Duration of the tour | How long does the desert safari last in Dubai?
The desert safari duration depends on the tour you are going for. Overall, Dubai’s morning desert safaris typically last four hours, ensuring tourists return to their hotels before the day’s heat sets in. Alternatively, evening safaris last approximately seven hours, with guests usually arriving back at their accommodations between 9 pm and 10 pm.
Is it safe to go on a Desert Safari in Dubai?
Yes, it’s very safe to go on a desert safari. Our tour guide was attentive since picking us up at the hotel. Also, before the trip, they gifted us with a fantastic reusable water bottle. We had two stops while touring the Desert to refill the bottles. Rest assured that tour companies have highly skilled and knowledgeable drivers who are adept at navigating and manoeuvring 4×4 vehicles through the desert dunes.
Dubai travel insurance
We always get abroad purchasing travel insurance beforehand, especially during layovers or stopovers. It was the same travelling to Dubai, connecting our route from Asia to Europe. You never know what can go wrong, with missed connection or general problems while travelling. We use Safety Wings for our long-haul flights and have general all-year insurance with HeyMondo (Read our review and grab a discount on us!).
Planning a stopover itinerary in Dubai, including activities like Desert Safari, Skydiving, Jet Skiing or similar experiences, it’s essential to have travel insurance. However, this is not just indicated because medical problems might occur, but also if your luggage gets lost, the connection between train and flight.
Also, if you want the comfort of renting your own car as we did, many rental car agencies will lower the cost of car insurance if you have your Travel insurance. Check a travel insurance coverage cost. For us, having Travel Insurance is the way to enjoy our vacation with peace of mind.
Don’t travel without travel insurance
We always recommend SafetyWing if you are embracing a long trip. We use them from 2018, and never get disappointed. Used to travel through South East Asia, Caribbean but also for short trips in Europe and around.
If you are a Digital Nomad looking to have pace of mind while staying abroad, go for SafetyWing like we do. They offers a fantastic plan, that you can renew monthly, without hidden fees and reliable assistance.
Is dune bashing in Dubai worth it?
Yes. While planning a desert safari in Dubai, make sure you pick the Dune-bashing adventure. If you’re in Dubai, it’s essential to try out this activity as it’s a well-loved tradition among travellers.
Is overnight Desert Safari worth it?
The breathtaking sunset over the Desert left us in awe, and spending the night, there was an experience I’ll never forget. The sky was clear, the stars so bright that you could distinguish the constellations. Yes, Dubai City seems close, but the Desert is dark enough to leave you speechless. Also, the attentive staff make your stay incomparable.
Check the reviews of people staying at Al Marmoom Oasis “Luxury Camping & Bedouin Experience“. I highly suggest this adventure to anyone looking for an unforgettable experience. Check the availability, as it tends to be fully booked within months in advance.
What is the difference between Red dune safari and Desert Safari?
When it comes to desert safari trips, Red Dunes Tours offers a distinctive experience with stunning red sand vistas. You can indulge in sandboarding activities that require high dunes and enjoy an exhilarating dune-bashing ride. Check out this tour which allows you to drive the buggy.
Why Choose a Dubai Desert Safari?
A desert safari in Dubai is kind of the other face of the coin. Where concrete, glass and futuristic-shaped buildings are the iconic landscape, the Desert is the peace away from the chaos and glamours. Amidst the glitz and glamour of Dubai’s urban landscape, a desert safari offers a refreshing escape into nature’s embrace.
It’s an opportunity to reconnect with the earth and immerse yourself in an environment that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Beyond the exhilarating activities, a desert safari provides a unique window into Emirati culture and traditions, creating a well-rounded and enriching experience.
Packing for your desert safari in Dubai
We prepared for our desert safari carefully; after all, every adventure must be told in the perfect way, and photographs are our best memories. Packaging strategically is important to have a comfortable and convenient desert safari experience. Choose loose and breathable clothing in light colours to combat the heat.
A shawl or scarf can offer protection from the sun and sand; sunglasses are necessary to shield your eyes from the intense sunlight. By bringing these essentials, you can fully enjoy your desert escapade. If you go for the Premium Heritage Tour Here, they will gift you a traditional man scarf/hat and a Sheila, the traditional ladies’ scarf (perfect for photos).
Overall | Best desert safaris in Dubai
10 Best Desert Safari Tours in Dubai
We have simplified the list of the best desert safari in Dubai, selecting only the very best. We know how difficult it is to find the right one and don’t get disappointed. A desert safari in Dubai might be very expensive, but following the below, you can find a budget-friendly alternative for a unique experience.
Sustainable desert safari in Dubai
Platinum Heritage will take you on a vintage Land Rover for a fantastic desert safari, dinner, traditional show and stargazing night. This is our favourite because it is unique in the Arabian Desert, looking to preserve the environment and the Bedouins’ traditional way of life. BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE.
Dubai Desert Safari’s top tours
Dubai Premium Red Dunes Camel Safari & BBQ at Al Khayma has a 4.9 Reviews score and is the very best in Dubai. Experienced guides run the desert tour and offer a wide range of activities. Create incredible shots and memories for this trip to Dubai. BOOK IT HERE.
Our Dubai safari tour top pick
If you are looking for Dune bashing, sandboarding in Dubai, and a traditional dinner all in, this is the tour for you!
Best desert safari in Dubai with an overnight stay
The most amazing experience in Dubai is staying in a traditional Bedouin camp overnight. This tour will let you enjoy the best activities in the Dubai desert, plus a dinner, stargazing night and then sleep in a tent in Al Khayma Desert Camp.
Best Budget-friendly Safari in Dubai: Dubai: Red Dune Safari, Camel Riding, Sandboarding & BBQ
Unveil the beauty of the Desert without breaking the bank with this budget-friendly Safari. Experience the thrill of dune bashing and sandboarding before indulging in a traditional evening at a Bedouin camp. This tour proves that you can savour the essence of Dubai’s Desert without compromising on the adventure. CHECK THE PRICE HERE!
Viator Special Offers
From time to time, Viator, a leading tour provider, offers incredible tours for a fraction of the price. Worth checking if you are looking for a fantastic Desert Safari in Dubai which boasts good reviews. CHECK THE OFFER.
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Tour Over the Desert of Dubai.
On this hot air balloon journey, observe the sunrise over the massive sand dunes of the Dubai desert. As you soar at a height of 4,000 feet, experience the excitement of witnessing camels and mountains.
Sunrise Desert Jeep Safari with Wildlife
Visit the breathtaking Al Qudra Lakes, traverse the dunes in a 4WD vehicle, and enjoy a sumptuous breakfast on a picnic blanket.
Luxurious desert safari in a vintage land rover
Of course, Dubai Desert offers an incredible luxury experience. Check this tour with Platinum Heritage, one of the most reputable companies in Dubai. They offer the most exclusive dinner in the Dubai Desert, right in a private reservoir location for the retreats of the royal family. You will be on board a Range Rover, driving through the dunes, participating in a falconry show and watching the stars in a Bedouin Camp. BOOK IT NOW.
Tour of Dubai + Desert Safari
This is a budget-friendly desert safari in Dubai. The perfect combo Dubai Tour and Desert safari will take you on an incredible adventure for the whole day. Cross Dubai Creek and explore Deira, where everything started. Visit the Gold Souk, pass by Jumeirah Beach, the Palm, the Blue Mosque and Burj Al Arab. This tour includes pick-up from your hotel. BOOK BEFORE IS TOO LATE.
Activities on a Dubai desert safari
A Dubai desert safari is a tapestry woven with many captivating activities. Each moment in the Desert offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Emirati culture and embrace the majesty of the landscape. From heart-pounding dune bashing to the serenity of camel riding, your desert adventure will be etched into your memory.
Dune Bashing: A Thrilling Expedition Across the Sands
Well, this is the top highlight of every desert tour. If you are an adrenaline seeker, this is the right tour for you. Embrace the adrenaline rush as you navigate the undulating high red dunes in a powerful 4×4 vehicle. Don’t worry, all drivers are well-skilled, and they will guide you through heart-pounding ascents and descents, ensuring an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of the Desert’s untamed beauty. BOOK YOUR DUNE BASHING TOUR.
Sandboarding: Conquer the Sands Like Never Before
Of course, many tours, which include dune bashing, are in a combo with sandboarding. You might have seen a lot of videos on tik tok and Instagram about this thrilling activity. So, channel your inner adventurer and try your hand at sandboarding. It is like snowboarding, but now you will glide down the dunes, embracing the exhilaration as you carve your path through the golden landscape if you don’t fall before. CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR THIS TOUR.
Camel Riding: A Journey Through Time
Even though we aim to be more sustainable and avoid tourist attractions that include animal use, we must admit Camel riding might be incredible. However, we have to be honest; we haven’t done it. It is that grey area where you don’t know if it is right or wrong, but it is part of a tourist experience.
And there we go on why we are neither pro or against it. While going from our hotel to the reservoir, we saw bedouins riding through the Desert; we felt it was standard transportation for locals in such remote areas.
Also, going on the Premium Heritage tour, we learned that the animals don’t suffer from that, and they ethically use camels. Check this tour if you still want to embark on a timeless voyage atop a camel, the traditional mode of transport across the Desert. While it may not be the most comfortable journey, the memories of this unique experience will remain long after your return.
Ah, by the way, camels are some of the most friendly animals we have been in contact with. The camels in our reservoir were kissing us on the cheek.
Sunset splendour: Witnessing nature’s masterpiece in the Desert
The Desert at sunset is something unique. On board our vintage Land Rover, we had one of the most amazing experiences while touring the dunes in a private reservoir. And the photos are just insanely gorgeous and, believe us, are not retouched at all.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Desert transforms into a canvas of breathtaking hues. A Dubai desert safari offers the opportunity to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. The serene beauty of the Desert at sunset is a moment to be cherished. BOOK YOUR SUNSET DESERT TOUR OF DUBAI.
Culinary Delights: Indulge in a Traditional Feast
We have tried something unusual but incredibly tasty. No desert safari is complete without savouring the flavours of Emirati cuisine. Revel in a sumptuous barbecue dinner at a Bedouin camp in a proper traditional way, accompanied by music, dance and fantastic locals sharing their way of life.
Going on a traditional dune tour in the Dubai Desert which includes a dinner at a bedouin camp, you will get a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural tapestry and warm hospitality. CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR THE MOST BOOKED TOUR OF THE DESERT OF DUBAI.
Overnight Magic: Slumber Beneath the Stars
If you have the chance, don’t miss experiencing the Desert at night. No pollution, no lights, only the stars and a serene atmosphere. We can clearly state that among the main highlights of our tour was the stargazing night at a Bedouin Camp, and we even included it among the reasons why Dubai is worth visiting. Elevate your desert experience with an overnight stay, a chance to truly connect with the spirit of the Desert. As darkness descends, the Desert reveals its secrets, and spending the night beneath the stars is an unparalleled adventure. BOOK YOUR STAY IN A BEDOUIN CAMP.
Where to stay in Dubai for a desert Safari
With most desert safari tours offering convenient pick-up and drop-off services, your choice of accommodation in Dubai is flexible. Select accommodations based on your preferences, whether you’re seeking budget-friendly options, mid-range comfort, or luxurious indulgence. Rest assured that Dubai’s diverse accommodations ensure you’ll find the perfect haven to complement your desert adventure.
25 HOURS HOTEL DUBAI
This hotel was our place in Dubai and undoubtedly one of the best accommodations we have ever stayed in. Not only the best breakfast, traditionally decorated rooms, premium service and high standard facilities, but also a unique location nearby the Museum of the Future and just three metro stops away from the Burj Khalifa. You should also know that the price wasn’t bad at all. A standard room starts from 373 AED (£80 | €92 | $100) per night.
Al Marmoom Oasis “Luxury Camping & Bedouin Experience”
You will sleep in a proper Bedouin tent in a traditional camp. Live the life on a desert holiday with the luxury of a complimentary continental breakfast. Enjoy the calm, relaxation and quietness of the Desert. Al Marmoom is an Oasis that offers luxury camping, comfortable beds and a team that looks after you. Also, consider that you will be in the centre of the action with many activities, from Dune Bashing to sandboarding. At night, look up and enjoy the sky like no other time.
Conclusion | Best Dubai desert safari
Embarking through the Dubai desert is more than just an ordinary adventure. It is an opportunity to make unforgettable memories that transcend time and culture. We had exciting activities throughout the day, and honestly, we didn’t feel tired after all, even though the sun was quite hot.
Dubai can be daunting, with so many activities. So a safari through the dunes of Dubai might give you a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the pure beauty of the Desert – a true marvel in the heart of Dubai.
FAQ | Best Dubai desert safari
u003cstrongu003eHow much does the desert safari in Dubai cost?u003c/strongu003e
The u003cstrongu003eDubai desert safari u003c/strongu003eprice starts from £30 ($38 | €34). The most luxurious can go up to £400 ($500 | €460), with an average of about £50 to £90 depending on the activities.
u003cstrongu003eAre there overnight safari tours?u003c/strongu003e
u003cstrongu003eYesu003c/strongu003e. Many tours offer an overnight safari tour, which includes a stay in the Desert in a Bedouin Camp.
u003cstrongu003eCan I book a Dubai desert safari tour online?u003c/strongu003e
Yes. You can u003cstrongu003eu003ca href=u0022https://www.getyourguide.com/dubai-l173/from-dubai-private-6-hour-desert-safari-dubai-w-bbq-t67792/?partner_id=BHUG4LDu0026amp;utm_medium=online_publisheru0026amp;cmp=DubaiDesertSafariu0026amp;mkt_cmp=trueu0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopener nofollowu0022u003eu003cspan style=u0022color: var(u002du002dstk-global-color-27229, #003f48);background: linear-gradient(to bottom, transparent 50%, var(u002du002dstk-global-color-45061, #f1dda9) 50%)u0022 class=u0022stk-highlightu0022u003ebook a desert safari tour hereu003c/spanu003eu003c/au003eu003c/strongu003e and check out the best available. The booking confirmation will be instant; you don’t need to print it, as the company will reach you through email or WhatsApp.
u003cstrongu003eWhat not to pack for a Dubai desert safariu003c/strongu003e
We suggest leaving large bags at your accommodation. Also, if you have cameras and other tech equipment, be mindful, as the dust and sand can ruin it.
u003cstrongu003eWhich place is best for Desert Safari Dubai?u003c/strongu003e
There are many locations for a u003cstrongu003edesert Safari surrounding Dubai,u003c/strongu003e all of them belonging to the Arabian Desert. From the classic Al Awir Desert, Liwa Desert, and Al Lahbab Desert to the more exclusive and less crowded Al Faya Desert, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Jebel Maleihah, and Bidayer.
u003cstrongu003eWhich month is the best for Desert Safari in Dubai?u003c/strongu003e
If you’re planning a u003cstrongu003edesert safari in Dubaiu003c/strongu003e, the ideal time is between November and March. During these months, the weather is typically pleasant in the afternoons, and the nights aren’t too chilly. It’s the perfect weather for this kind of activity.
u003cstrongu003eIs it worth doing Desert Safari in Dubai?u003c/strongu003e
Yes. You must go on a u003cstrongu003edesert safari in Dubaiu003c/strongu003e. There are plenty of fun things to do, such as dune bashing in a 4×4, trying dune boarding, riding a camel, experiencing shisha (hookah pipe), getting your hand painted with henna, and enjoying Arabic BBQ. You won’t regret going on this adventure!
u003cstrongu003eWhich is better, the morning or evening desert safari?u003c/strongu003e
If you enjoy starting your day with adventure and are an early riser, a morning desert safari could be the perfect choice for you. However, we prefer the afternoon experience. An eveningu003cstrongu003e desert safari u003c/strongu003emay be more appealing if you want to witness a stunning sunset and traditional show.
u003cstrongu003eCan I wear shorts in Desert Safari Dubai?u003c/strongu003e
Although wearing shorts could be an option, wearing trousers during a desert safari is highly recommended. This is because u003cstrongu003eDubai desert tours u003c/strongu003eoften involve sand-based activities like sandboarding and dune bashing, which could result in sand getting all over your body. Therefore, wearing trousers will provide better protection and comfort during the tour.
Are you planning to visit Dubai soon?
Before you travel to Dubai, we have some recommendations for you:
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DUBAI ITINERARY 3 DAYS | Looking to spend a few days in Dubai and don’t know where to start? In our guide, we have highlighted all the best things to do in Dubai in 3 days, experiencing all the incredible things that the city has to offer. READ OUR DUBAI 3 DAYS ITINERARY!
Without a doubt, it should definitely be on your to-do list. Do you want to go dune bashing in a 4×4, try dune boarding, ride a camel, try shisha (hookah pipe), have your hand painted with henna and eat Arabic bbq? Then trust me when I say, you don’t want to miss a Dubai Desert Safari.