Desert Safari
Experience the ultimate adventure with the Dubai Desert Safari! This thrilling tour takes you into the heart of the Arabian desert, offering a mix of excitement and culture. Enjoy dune bashing in a 4x4, quad biking, and sandboarding. Relax with a traditional BBQ dinner, shisha, and live entertainment under the stars. Choose from morning, evening, or overnight tours, including private and VIP options, for a personalized experience. From camel rides to falconry displays, every activity is designed to showcase the desert's beauty and thrill. Book now for an unforgettable desert safari experience!
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Things to know
A desert safari is an adventure tour in the desert featuring activities like dune bashing, camel rides, quad biking, sandboarding, and traditional entertainment. It offers a unique way to experience the vast and beautiful Arabian desert.
Yes, desert safaris in Dubai are generally safe. Reputable companies use experienced drivers and follow strict safety protocols. Vehicles are equipped with safety features, and all activities are supervised by professionals.
Wear comfortable, light clothing such as T-shirts, shorts, or light pants. Avoid flip-flops; opt for closed-toe shoes. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun. In cooler months, a light jacket may be needed for the evening.
For the cheapest and most popular option, go for the 4-hour Desert Safari, which includes quad biking, camel rides, and sandboarding in the Lahbab desert. For a more luxurious experience, try the Overnight Safari at Al Khayma Camp, featuring dune bashing, camel riding, a BBQ dinner, shows, stargazing, and a stay in a private air-conditioned tent.
The desert safari locations are typically about 30-45 minutes (15-30 miles) from central Dubai, depending on the specific desert camp and traffic conditions.
The cost of a Dubai desert safari per person varies based on the package and inclusions. Standard tours range from AED 70 to AED 300 ($40 to $75), while luxury experiences can cost AED 400 or more ($150 or more).
Two highly recommended desert safari companies in Dubai, each with tens of thousands of positive reviews, are Ammar Tours and OceanAir Travels.
Most desert safaris have a minimum age limit of 3-5 years for dune bashing. However, there are family-friendly options available that are suitable for younger children.
Sandstorms in Dubai are infrequent and usually occur between May and August. They are typically short-lived and rarely significantly affect desert safari activities.
Tipping is appreciated but optional. A tip of 10-20 AED ($3-5) per person for the driver/guide is considered generous. For exceptional service, you can tip more.
Absolutely! A desert safari offers a unique blend of adventure, cultural experiences, and stunning landscapes. It's a must-do activity for visitors looking to experience the essence of Dubai's desert environment.
Impressive Facts
- Dubai has experimented with cloud seeding to create artificial rain in the desert. This innovative technique aims to increase rainfall and combat the arid climate, showcasing Dubai's commitment to advanced environmental solutions.
- The Arabian desert covers over 900,000 square miles (2.33 million square km) and is home to unique flora and fauna, such as the Ghaf tree and Arabian oryx.
- The Arabian desert is home to one of the world's most giant sand dunes, known as the "Big Red" or "Al Hamar". This dune stands over 300 feet (91 meters) high, making it a popular spot for dune bashing and sandboarding. Expert drivers in 4x4 vehicles can reach speeds up to 30 mph (48 km/h) on dunes.
- From November to February, desert sunrises and sunsets offer breathtaking views with the clearest atmospheres This period also provides optimal stargazing conditions, with up to 5,000 stars visible on a good night., enhanced by guided tours.
- The Bedouin population in the UAE is estimated at around 21,000 people, with some still adhering to traditional nomadic lifestyles. They live in tents made from goat hair, herd camels and goats, and uphold age-old traditions of hospitality. Daily life includes baking bread over open fires, weaving textiles, and navigating the desert using knowledge passed down through generations.
- Desert safari companies are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, with over 70% implementing measures to reduce their environmental impact.
- The Arabian desert is home to a variety of fascinating wildlife, including the Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, and desert foxes. These animals have adapted to the harsh desert conditions, and the Arabian oryx is a notable conservation success story, having been reintroduced to the wild after near extinction.