- Regular Safari:
A budget-friendly option, typically including dune driving, camel rides, welcome drinks, BBQ, and entertainment. This is a great choice for those seeking an authentic desert experience at a lower cost. - VIP Safari:
A luxurious experience with high-end vehicles (like luxury SUVs or helicopters), and chic camps featuring air conditioning, comfortable seating, and a bar. This option also often includes premium activities, fine dining, and private seating arrangements. - Overnight Safari:
A longer safari that usually lasts around 16 hours, offering the opportunity to camp under the stars and enjoy a more immersive desert experience with extended activities, such as stargazing and cultural experiences. - Premium Safari:
A more exclusive and upscale experience with features like:- Luxury transportation (luxury SUVs, helicopters)
- Luxurious camps with air conditioning, private seating, and bars
- Extra activities such as sandboarding, holding a falcon, henna tattoos, and live entertainment (belly dancing, Tanura show, fire shows)
- Gourmet food with extensive buffets, live cooking stations, and unlimited drinks
- Pick-up and drop-off services for added convenience
Best Desert Locations for Safari in Dubai:
- Lahbab Desert:
Known for its large red dunes, this desert is ideal for dune bashing, sandboarding, and offers a traditional Bedouin-style camping experience. It’s a top choice for most safari tours. - Al Qudra Desert:
A great option for wildlife enthusiasts and those interested in quad biking, offering diverse desert fauna for wildlife photography. - Liwa Desert:
Known for its vast and expansive dunes, Liwa is perfect for those seeking a more remote and serene desert experience.
Top Desert Safari Agencies:
- Falcon Tourism:
Highly praised for its well-organized tours, knowledgeable guides, and high-quality experience in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. It is widely regarded as one of the best agencies for a desert safari. - Arabian Adventures:
Known for its excellent reputation, well-planned itineraries, and focus on conservation tourism in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.
Morning vs. Evening Safaris:
- Morning Safaris:
Ideal for those who enjoy starting the day with adventure. The desert is quieter and cooler, and wildlife is more active. It’s perfect for physical activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and quad biking, with fewer crowds. Plus, you get the afternoon free to explore the city. - Evening Safaris:
Great for witnessing the sunset and enjoying local entertainment. Evening safaris often include cultural activities like belly dancing, Tanura shows, and a BBQ dinner, offering a memorable experience under the desert stars.
What to Wear on a Desert Safari:
- Shorts vs. Long Pants:
While you can wear shorts, long pants are generally recommended. Long pants provide better protection from sand and the sun, especially if you plan on participating in activities like sandboarding or camel riding. However, if the weather is very hot, shorts can be comfortable—just be aware that sand can get stuck on your legs.
Key Desert Safari Activities:
- Dune Bashing:
Thrilling off-road rides across the desert dunes in a 4×4 vehicle led by an experienced driver. - Camel Riding:
A serene way to explore the desert, offering a traditional experience. - Sandboarding:
Similar to snowboarding but on sand, an exciting activity for adventure seekers. - Quad Biking:
Ride a 150cc quad bike through the dunes for an adrenaline rush. - BBQ Dinner and Entertainment:
Enjoy a traditional BBQ dinner at a desert camp, with entertainment such as live music, belly dancing, Tanura shows, fire performances, and henna tattoos.
Cost of a Desert Safari:
- Low-Cost Safari:
The Desert Safari offers a six-hour evening trip for AED 130 per adult and AED 100 per child, including dune driving, camel rides, BBQ dinner, and entertainment. - Higher-End Safaris:
Prices can increase significantly for VIP, luxury, and overnight safaris, which include premium services, activities, and more exclusive experiences.
Self-Driving in Dubai:
Yes, you can self-drive in Dubai. Key points to consider:
- Driver’s License: You need a valid driving license. Tourists should carry an international driving permit.
- Vehicle Insurance: Ensure the vehicle is insured.
- Right-Hand Drive: Dubai uses right-hand drive vehicles.
- Speed Limits: Speed limits range from 40 km/h in suburban areas to 120 km/h on highways.
- Overtaking & Lane Changing: Always overtake from the left, use indicators when changing lanes, and check mirrors.
- Renting a Car: Companies like Europcar and Udrive offer car rentals.
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed adventure or a more relaxed desert experience, Dubai offers a variety of desert safari options to suit different preferences and budgets.
