Heading out to Dubai desert safari tour is one of the most popular things to do for visitors to the city – it’s fantastic fun and a great way to see not just the majestic desert, but also Dubai’s native wildlife. There are plenty of options for Dubai desert safaris as well, so whatever your interests you’re bound to find the desert excursion for you.
On a typical shared desert safari, you’ll be picked up at your hotel by your guide and driver in a 4×4 vehicle, then head out of the city towards the sands where you’ll join other vehicles. After a short stop to complete preparations, your driver will venture into the desert – and this is where the real fun begins, with an exciting ride on and around the dunes.
Then you and the group will reach a camp in the desert, where there are refreshments as well as activities such as camel rides, falconry, henna sessions, sandboarding and more. After everyone’s had a great time, and taken plenty of photos and videos, it’s time to head back to the city.
Where to book a Dubai desert safari
There are plenty of companies offering desert safaris in Dubai, from budget options all the way to private overnight adventures – and with plenty of add-ons including astronomy, hot air balloon flights, nature tours and more.
One of the best desert safari adventure only Desert Safari Visit can provide, which has a wide variety of safari picks. You can also find desert safari options when using a city pass – or your hotel concierge can help you book a safari.
You should always book a desert safari with a reputable tour company, and never try driving out into the desert by yourself. Driving in the sand can be hazardous if you don’t have experience and the right vehicle.
Desert safari ticket prices
If you’re looking for a low-cost outing, The Desert Safari offers an evening trip to the desert that includes dune driving, camel rides, welcome drinks, a barbecue dinner, entertainment and more. The six-hour experience can be enjoy by adults and for children as well. Meanwhile, Desert Safari Dubai has two options priced at AED150 for adults and AED130 for kids: an afternoon trip that also offers dune driving, drinks and dinner, sandboarding on the dunes, live performances and more, plus a similar outing that excludes dune driving, for those seeking a more laidback excursion.
Each tour operator offers a variety of experiences for you to choose from, so make sure to look around for a trip that best suits your interests and requirements.
What to wear on a Dubai desert safari
If you’re taking an evening desert trip during wintertime (October to March), it’s important to pack some warmer clothes. While the temperature is pleasant in the city during this time of year, the desert gets colder once the sun goes down. Bring a jacket and wear trousers to ensure you stay warm throughout.
Whatever the season, comfort and convenience are essential when deciding on an outfit to wear for your journey into the desert. Pick an outfit that you don’t mind getting sandy, or possibly dirty if you’re planning on doing activities like camel riding or sandboarding. In terms of footwear, it’s best to wear trainers or sandals with straps.
For ladies, knee-length skirts and dresses work during the warmer weather, but if you plan on riding a camel or a dune buggy, trousers are better suited.
what to wear during your Dubai holiday.
When is the best time to go on a desert safari?
Morning and evening desert excursions are both available year-round in Dubai, so it’s down to your personal preference. If you’re an early bird eager to witness an unforgettable sunrise, try a morning trip. If you’d rather see the sunset and spend a few hours under a blanket of beautiful stars, opt for an evening experience.
Although winter is a more popular time of year for desert safaris, there are plenty of benefits to a summer adventure too. Read our guide to summer desert safaris for details.