Dubai International Travel

Complete Guide to Dubai Desert Safari – Timings, Types & Tips

Desert Safari in Dubai
Desert Safari in Dubai
Written by Nancy Verma

Dubai, a magical city renowned for its breathtaking skyscrapers and awe-inspiring marvels, also surprises many first-time visitors with its adrenaline-pumping Dubai Desert Safari —the soul of the UAE. Apart from the high-rise architectural wonders of the city, this adventure is held in the vast and mystical Arabian Desert, where golden dunes stretch endlessly under a sunny sky, and age-old Bedouin traditions come alive.

Those who plan their Dubai adventure always add a Desert Safari tour to their itinerary, without fail! Why? The exhilarating experience of sandboarding and quad biking amidst the golden sands is something every thrill-seeker would want to experience. So, without any further wait, scroll down to explore detailed insights about Dubai Desert Safari and plan your adventure with JustWravel! 

Discover Everything About the Dubai Desert Safari: An Ultimate Experience in the Land of Arabs

Desert Safari in Dubai
Desert Safari in Dubai

The Dubai Desert Safari, also known as Dune Bashing, is a wonderful celebration of Emirati heritage, from food to music, every single activity exudes the true Arabian essence. 

What Can We Expect at the Dubai Desert Safari? 

The Dubai Desert Safari is an all-inclusive experience in the gigantic Arabian Desert. It’s mainly famous for the dune bashing, desert camp Dubai experience, camel rides, Arabian cuisine, and much more. Your journey begins with a heart-pounding yet exciting dune bashing session in a 4×4 vehicle- a quad bike taking you to a whole new level of fun! You can even try your hand at sandboarding or take a peaceful camel ride to try an iconic and traditional way to explore the vast desert landscape.

It’s worth noting that the Camel ride in Dubai is best tried at the Desert Safari. Additionally, the experience embodies the essence of Arabian hospitality.

Why is the Dubai Desert Safari a Must-Do Experience?

Dune bashing in Dubai
Dune bashing in Dubai

Desert Safari or dune bashing in Dubai is a must-try experience for first-time visitors as it offers a perfect dose of thrill, entertainment, and cultural fun. Visitors will get to enjoy the adrenaline rush of rising on the uneven dunes in the morning, followed by savoring sizzling Arabian-style gourmet in the evening, paired with a range of expertly performed entertainment options. Here’s what is all included in the Dubai Desert Safari: 

Types of Desert Safaris

There are more than 2 types of Desert Safaris tailored to different preferences, time frames, and activity levels, including: 

  • Morning Desert Safari: Ideal for early risers and adventure lovers. It mainly includes dune bashing, camel rides, quad biking, and sandboarding. 
  • Evening Desert Safari: Most popular choice and perfect for stargazing, along with a Bedouin-style camp experience with BBQ dinner, and cultural shows (belly dance, Tanoura).
  • Overnight Desert Safari: Includes overnight stay in the desert camp alongside an evening Desert Safari experience. 
  • Private Desert Safari: Ideal for couples, families, or groups wanting privacy.
  • Note: Customization and exclusive services are available. 
  • Adventure Safari: This experience primarily features activities such as dune buggy rides, quad biking, and extreme sandboarding, tailored for adventure seekers. 
  • Luxury Desert Safari: This world-class experience includes gourmet dining, private setups, vintage Land Rover rides, wildlife spotting, and five-star hospitality

Select your preferred Desert Safari Type and get ready for an ultimate adventure with our Dubai Tour Package. Book now! 

Adventure Activities at the Dubai Desert Safari

Desert Safari in Dubai
Desert Safari in Dubai

Dubai Desert Safari offers a range of adventure activities, including: 

  • Dune Bashing: This is the most enjoyed adventure activity. Dune bashing in Dubai is all about fiercely riding the uneven dunes on powerful 4×4 vehicles. It’s fast, enjoyable, thrilling, and the highlight of any desert safari.
  • Dune Buggy Rides: This adventure is ideal for those craving control and excitement, allowing you to enjoy the sandy landscape in a powerful, open-air vehicle.
  • Quad Biking: This adventure includes riding a four-wheeled bike through the open desert terrain. Make sure to wear safety gear and follow the brief instructions for a safe experience. 
  • Camel Ride: Apart from every other destination, a camel ride in Dubai is thoroughly enjoyed, offering a relaxing contrast to the city’s high-speed adventures. 
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: This adventure takes place in the desert at sunrise, offering paradisiacal views. This adventure is perfect for photography and relaxed moments in the sky.  

Live Entertainment Experiences at the Dubai Desert Safari 

Desert Safari in Dubai
Belly Dance in Dubai

Dubai Desert Safari offers a diverse range of live entertainment options for its guests. Here are some of the most popular and exciting live entertainment experiences: 

  • Belly Dance performance by experienced dancers and skilled artists who dance gracefully to the traditional Arabic music, accompanied by drums and string instruments.
  • Energetic live drumming sessions by experts who use traditional drums (like darbuka), adding soulful rhythm to the night. 
  • A wow-imposing fire show spectacle where performers showcase fire-eating, flame-throwing, and fire-spinning techniques with dramatic flair.
  • The Tanoura Dance show, primarily a colorful and spiritual Egyptian folk dance, features performers wearing multicolored skirts who spin gracefully in a continuous motion to symbolize the universe and its harmony.
  • Sword Dance (Ardha), which is occasionally performed, features synchronized movements with swords and chanting, reflecting the profound heritage of the UAE.
  • Folk Music performance, where traditional Arabic or Bedouin music is played live, creating a fully soul-stirring and immersive ambiance, celebrating regional sounds and dramatic use of the instruments. 
  • An LED light show adds a modern entertainment aspect to the Dubai Desert Safari experience, where dancers perform with LED costumes and props, enhancing the visual appeal of the night.

Cultural Experiences at the Dubai Desert Safari 

The Dubai Desert Safari is not just about quad biking on sand dunes or camel riding- there’s much more to it, enough to stir your soul. The safari camps are designed to offer the tourists a perfectly organized Arabian experience. Guests can enjoy immersive cultural experiences that reflect the Bedouin way of life and the UAE’s rich legacy. Here are the highlights: 

  • A Bedouin-style desert camp in Dubai, where guests are warmly welcomed with Arabic coffee and fresh dates, often as a kind and traditional gesture of hospitality. At these camps, guests relax on low cushions under star-lit tents, beautifully designed with ornate carpets and colorful lanterns that subtly recreate the charm of desert living.
  • Falconry displays offer a closer look at the UAE’s national bird, which is expertly handled by experts who share insights into their training and importance in Bedouin culture.
  • Henna painting is a centuries-old art form practised in Middle Eastern Cultures. For a fully indulgent experience, you can even dress up in the traditional Emirati attire, like kanduras and abayas, to capture aesthetic shots with a backdrop of desert views.

Make the most of your experience at the Dubai Desert Safari with our expertly crafted Dubai Tour Package– book now and let the adventure roll in. 

Best Time to Visit the Dubai Desert Safari

Desert Safari in Dubai
Desert Safari in Dubai

Planning to visit the Dubai Desert Safari? Well, it’s not typically a year-round destination. The best time to visit the Dubai Desert Safari is during the colder months, which are from November to March. During this time period, the weather is usually pleasant, with a temperature range between 20°C to 30°C, making outdoor activities like dune bashing, camel rides, and cultural shows much more enjoyable. 

Please note: People planning their adventure during the summer months, due to fewer crowds and off-peak season travel experience, can try Desert Safari during early mornings and late evenings to avoid the heat. 

Travel Tips and Safety Guidelines for Visitors

Desert Safari in Dubai
Desert Safari in Dubai

Here’s what you need to keep in mind while planning a Dubai Desert Safari adventure, while keeping safety in mind. Save it and make sure your experience goes hassle-free. 

  • It’s advisable to avoid indulging in any heavy meals right before the safari adventure to prevent nausea and motion sickness. 
  • Dress comfortably and modestly for comfort and ease. Lightweight and breathable clothes are best suitable for the hot desert temperatures, and carrying a thin shawl is recommended for cooler desert evenings.
  • Avoid wearing any open or heeled sandals. It’s advisable that you wear closed-toe shoes to avoid sand entering your footwear and to ensure better grip and comfort while walking on uneven desert terrain.
  • Be respectful towards the local culture and wear covered clothing. 
  • Pregnant women should avoid Desert Safari, particularly Dune Bashing, at all costs.
  • Carry a power bank and camera to fully engage in the experience without the fear of the battery going out. 
  • Try to be punctual regarding the safari’s pick-up and drop-off schedules. Be ready at your hotel or designated meeting point on time to avoid delays or cancellations.
  • MOST IMPORTANT: Disturbing and feeding the wildlife, especially gazelles or falcons, is strictly discouraged. It’s advisable to respect the natural habitat and conservation efforts.
  • Always carefully listen and follow the safety instructions given by your safari guide. These will be extremely helpful in ensuring a worry-free and safe experience during activities like quad biking, sandboarding, or handling falcons.
  • Avoid carrying valuables. Keep phones, wallets, and cameras safely zipped or strapped in a small bag to prevent loss during activities like dune bashing or camel rides.
  • Beauty-conscious individuals should bring their sunscreens and sunglasses to protect themselves from intense sunlight and tanning. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Desert Safari allowed for people with back or neck problems?

The Desert Safari adventure primarily involves rash driving over uneven sand dunes, which can be quite bumpy. People with back, spinal, and neck problems should avoid this or ask their tour operator for customized or soft safari options with minimal physical impact, focusing more on cultural experiences and desert views.

Are there any age restrictions for the Desert Safari adventure?

Yes, there are age guidelines that need to be followed for the Dubai Desert Safari adventure. Children below the age of 3 years and elderly individuals, especially those with major health concerns, are usually advised to avoid dune bashing (desert safari) due to safety and health reasons. 

Are there restrooms available in the desert safari camps?

Yes, most of the safari camps are equipped with quality washrooms and restroom facilities for the ease of visitors. Using them responsibly is what ensures cleanliness, comfort, and a pleasant experience for everyone throughout the visit. Also, please note that these washrooms might not be as luxurious as hotel rooms. 

Is alcohol served during the safari? 

Yes, alcohol is served at some of the camps, which includes an extra charge. However, this varies based on the tour provider and current regulations.

Are vegetarian options available at Dubai Desert Safari? 

Yes, vegetarian options are available at most Dubai Desert Safari camps. The vegetarian buffet typically features a diverse selection of salads, rice dishes, grilled vegetables, and traditional vegetarian curries. For a worry-free experience, you must inform your tour operator in advance regarding your dietary needs and preferences. 

Now, you’ve a comprehensive guide to Dubai Desert Safari ready by your side, what awaits you? Book your ultimate Dubai Tour Package, which promises a world of adventures, and every second spent will be nothing short of excitement and wonder. Why wait— go and book now! 

Leave a Comment

About the author

Nancy Verma

Why July is the Perfect Month for Ladakh 5 Travel Scams That Can Ruin Your Trip (If You Are Not Careful!) 5 Must-Read Books for Every Wanderer: Stories That Will Ignite Your Travel Spirit Planning a Monsoon Trip? Don’t Travel Without These in Your Backpack! 5 Best Places to Visit in June and July Outside India