Parents planning a Dubai trip often ask one important question before booking any desert tour: is Dubai desert safari kid friendly?
The answer is yes, but only if you choose the right type of safari for your child’s age and comfort.
Dubai offers many kinds of desert safaris. Some are gentle and family-focused, while others are adventurous and not suitable for young children. Knowing the difference helps parents avoid stress and enjoy the experience.
Why Families Consider Desert Safari in Dubai
A desert safari is one of the few activities in Dubai where children can enjoy open space instead of buildings and screens. Kids love playing in the sand, seeing camels up close, and watching live shows in the desert camp.
Families choose desert safaris because they usually include:
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Safe and guided activities
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Cultural experiences suitable for kids
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Dinner included, so no extra planning
When planned properly, a desert safari becomes a relaxed family outing rather than an exhausting adventure.
Which Desert Safari Is Best for Kids?
Not all desert safaris are the same. Some are much better suited for children than others.
Evening Desert Safari (Most Kid Friendly)
Evening desert safaris are the best choice for families with children. The weather is cooler, and activities are well-organized.
This type of safari works well for kids because:
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The temperature is comfortable
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Activities are spread out, not rushed
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Kids can enjoy camel rides and shows
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The tour ends before bedtime
Most families with kids choose evening safaris for comfort and safety.
Morning Desert Safari (Only for Older Kids)
Morning safaris are short and usually focus on adventure activities.
They may be suitable if:
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Your child is above 7 years old
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Your child enjoys physical activities
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You are not interested in shows or dinner
For younger children, morning safaris can feel rushed and tiring.
Overnight Desert Safari (Not for Small Kids)
Overnight desert safari includes sleeping in the desert and late-night activities.
This option is better for:
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Kids above 7–8 years
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Children comfortable with outdoor sleeping
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Families looking for a quiet, slow experience
It is not recommended for toddlers or babies due to cold nights and long duration.
Is Dune Bashing Safe for Kids?
Dune bashing is the part parents worry about the most. It involves driving over sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle.
For some children, dune bashing can be uncomfortable.
Dune bashing is not recommended for:
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Babies and toddlers
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Children with motion sickness
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Kids with back or neck issues
However, parents should know that dune bashing is optional. Most operators allow:
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Soft dune drive
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No dune bashing option
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Direct drive to the desert camp
Always inform the tour company that you are traveling with children.
Age Guidelines for Kids in Desert Safari
While exact rules depend on the operator, most follow these general guidelines:
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Under 3 years: Not recommended
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3 to 5 years: Allowed without dune bashing
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6 years and above: Allowed in most activities
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12 years and above: Can join dune bashing with supervision
Parents should confirm age limits at the time of booking.
Activities Children Usually Enjoy the Most
Kids often enjoy the desert safari more than adults because activities are simple and interactive.
Children usually love:
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Short camel rides around the camp
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Playing and walking on soft sand
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Sandboarding on small dunes
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Wearing traditional Arabic clothes
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Watching fire and Tanoura shows
These activities are safe, supervised, and designed for all age groups.
Food Options for Children at Desert Camps
Most desert safari camps serve buffet-style BBQ dinners. The food is simple and suitable for kids.
Typical child-friendly food includes:
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Rice and bread
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Grilled chicken
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Pasta
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Salads
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Desserts
Vegetarian options are usually available. Parents with children who have allergies should inform the operator in advance.
Safety Measures Parents Should Know
Dubai desert safari operators follow safety rules, especially when families are involved.
Common safety features include:
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Seat belts in all vehicles
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Licensed desert drivers
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First aid kits at camps
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Clean and separate washrooms
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Controlled fire and show areas
Parents should still keep an eye on children, especially near camels and open spaces.
What Parents Should Bring for Kids
Parents should keep packing light but practical.
Useful items include:
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Comfortable clothing
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A light jacket for evening
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Sunscreen
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Hat or cap
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Wet wipes or tissues
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Extra snacks for younger kids
Avoid carrying strollers, as sand makes them difficult to use.
Is Desert Safari Suitable for Babies?
In most cases, desert safari is not suitable for babies.
Reasons include:
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Bumpy desert roads
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Loud music at camps
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Temperature changes
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Long travel time
If parents still choose to go, they should book a private safari and skip all adventure activities.
Shared vs Private Desert Safari for Families
Families often choose between shared and private safaris.
A shared safari is more affordable but follows a fixed schedule.
A private safari offers:
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Flexible timing
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Soft driving
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More comfort for kids
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Less noise and crowd
Families with young children usually prefer private safaris.
Is Dubai Desert Safari Worth It for Families?
Yes, Dubai desert safari is kid friendly when planned correctly. Parents should avoid adventure-heavy packages and choose family-focused options.
With the right planning, desert safari becomes a fun, safe, and memorable experience for children and parents alike.
FAQs – Dubai Desert Safari and Kids
Is Dubai desert safari safe for children?
Yes, when soft driving and family-friendly options are chosen.
What is the best age for kids to go on desert safari?
Children aged 6 years and above enjoy it the most.
Can kids skip dune bashing?
Yes, dune bashing is optional in most family safaris.
Is desert safari too hot for kids?
Evening safaris from October to April are comfortable.
Are toilets available at desert camps?
Yes, all licensed camps have clean washrooms.
Final Words
Dubai desert safari can be very kid friendly if parents choose the right package. Avoid extreme activities, inform the operator in advance, and focus on comfort rather than adventure. When done right, it becomes one of the most enjoyable family experiences in Dubai.
