If you’re planning to visit the UAE, desert safari Dubai is one experience you simply cannot miss. This thrilling journey offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, food, and fun. Whether you’re visiting solo, with your family, or on honeymoon, this guide will walk you through everything that happens in a desert safari, from the moment you’re picked up to the final drop-off.
Hotel Pick-Up: Your Desert Adventure Begins
The desert safari tour typically begins in the afternoon. A professional driver picks you up from your hotel or residence in a 4×4 Land Cruiser or modified off-road vehicle. These vehicles are specially equipped to handle the desert’s challenging terrains.
Pickup timing is usually between 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM depending on the season and location.
During the drive to the desert, the guide will brief you about the activities, safety rules, and what to expect. The ride from the city to the red dunes of Lahbab or Al Awir takes about 45–60 minutes.
Dune Bashing: The Heart-Racing Adventure
Once you reach the desert, the driver lets some air out of the tires to prepare for dune bashing. This is one of the most exciting parts of the desert safari.
In this activity:
- Your vehicle speeds across tall red sand dunes, climbing, slipping, and dropping down in controlled motions.
- It feels like a rollercoaster but on sand.
- The driver is a trained expert, ensuring your safety and thrill at the same time.
Duration: Around 25–30 minutes
Don’t forget to fasten your seatbelt and hold on tight — it’s a ride you’ll never forget!
Sandboarding and Photo Stops: Slide and Snap
After dune bashing, you’ll stop at the highest dune point for photos and optional activities like sandboarding.
- Sandboarding involves standing on a special board and sliding down the soft sandy slopes.
- It’s safe for all ages and doesn’t require any prior experience.
This is also the best moment to take Instagram-worthy pictures of:
- The golden dunes
- Your vehicle on the crest of a dune
- The endless desert horizon
Pro tip: Wear sunglasses and cover your head; the sand can get warm and windy.
Camel Ride: Experience the Bedouin Way
Next, you’re taken to a nearby desert safari camp. Before entering the camp, you’ll enjoy a short camel ride — a tradition that gives you a feel of how Arabs once travelled across the desert.
- Rides are usually 5–10 minutes, but longer private rides are available.
- Guides help you mount and safely dismount.
Fun Fact: Camels are known as the “ships of the desert” and have been crucial for desert transportation for centuries.
Desert Camp Arrival: Welcome to Bedouin Hospitality
Now, you’ll enter a beautiful desert camp, designed in Bedouin style with low seating, Arabic carpets, and soft lighting.
Once you’re inside:
- You’re welcomed with Arabic coffee (Gahwa), fresh dates, and soft drinks.
- You can relax, explore, or try different activities as the evening continues.
Henna, Hookah, and Arabic Dress Photography
There are plenty of cultural activities at the desert camp:
- Henna Painting: Women (and sometimes kids) love to get traditional henna designs on their hands — it’s temporary and herbal.
- Shisha (Hookah): Available in different flavors for those who want to try Arabic-style smoking.
- Traditional Dress Photography: Wear Kandura (men) or Abaya (women) and pose for a picture like an Emirati!
These experiences give you a closer look at the Emirati lifestyle and traditions.
Falcon Interaction: Meet the National Bird
Many camps offer a falcon show or photography session where:
- You can hold a falcon on your arm (with a glove) and take photos.
- Learn about their hunting role in Bedouin culture.
Falcons are deeply respected in UAE heritage.
BBQ Buffet Dinner: A Delicious Arabic Feast
As the sun sets, the camp comes alive with lights and aromas. It’s now time for dinner.
The buffet typically includes:
- Starters: Hummus, tabbouleh, Arabic bread, fattoush
- BBQ Grill: Chicken, mutton, kebabs, shish tawook
- Main Course: Biryani, noodles, pasta, lentils
- Desserts: Luqaimat (Emirati sweets), fruits, and puddings
- Drinks: Water, tea, coffee, and soft drinks (Alcohol optional in private camps)
Vegetarian options are also available on request.
Live Entertainment Shows: Traditional and Modern Fusion
After dinner, the desert safari camp hosts live entertainment, offering a mix of traditional Arab and modern performances. These usually include:
- Belly Dance: Performed by skilled dancers to Arabic music.
- Tanoura Dance: A spiritual Sufi-style spinning dance in colorful costumes.
- Fire Show: Jaw-dropping stunts with flames, including fire swallowing and spinning.
These shows take place on a central stage and are included in most packages.
Stargazing & Night Photography (Optional)
If you’ve booked an overnight desert safari, the experience gets even better. After the camp closes for the day, you can:
- Lay back on a mat or mattress
- Gaze at the stunning night sky
- Spot stars and planets away from city lights
Overnight packages include sleeping bags, tents, and early breakfast.
Drop-Off to Hotel
Once all shows are done and you’ve had your fill of fun, it’s time to head back. The driver gathers the group, and you begin your return journey.
- Drop-off is usually around 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
- If you booked a private tour, you can customize the timings.
How to Book Your Desert Safari Dubai Tour
Booking your desert safari is simple and available online. Choose from:
- Morning Desert Safari (includes dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding)
- Evening Desert Safari (includes full dinner and entertainment)
- Overnight Desert Safari (includes camping and breakfast)
- Private Desert Safari (ideal for families or couples)
Prices range from AED 100 to AED 350 per person depending on the package.
You can book via:
- Official websites like www.dubaidesertsafari.com
- Tour platforms like TripAdvisor, Klook, and GetYourGuide
- WhatsApp or call local tour operators
Tips Before You Go
Here are a few helpful tips for your trip:
- Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Avoid heavy meals before dune bashing
- Don’t forget to charge your phone/camera
- Book early during high season (October to March)
Final Thoughts
Desert safari Dubai is more than a tour — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From thrilling dune bashing to magical desert sunsets, and from traditional Emirati food to stargazing in the silence of the sands, every moment is memorable.
Whether you’re a tourist visiting Dubai or a resident exploring the UAE, a desert safari will leave you with memories, photos, and stories you’ll cherish forever.
✅ Ready to Book?
Experience the best desert safari Dubai with trusted providers like:
👉 Book Now on Desert Safari Dubai Official Website
📞 Call or WhatsApp: +971543233140 for instant booking