What is a safari in Dubai?
Desert safari in Dubai traditionally takes place in Rub Al Khali – a quiet Arab desert, not at all like modern Dubai.
It takes about an hour to get to the place of “action”. After the exit from the asphalt highway, the main thing begins – jeep riding. Drivers slightly lower the wheels to make it more convenient to maneuver on the sand and climb the dunes. Tourists ride on Land Cruiser jeeps (4 people each, not counting the driver) – extreme, fun and unusual.
If the safari in the evening, then the trips usually end at sunset – it at this time that the most beautiful photos obtained. After the whole group go to the traditional camp, where tourists are waiting for the locals with an entertainment program shows, dances, music, barbecue dinner. I was on the evening tour and got a lot of emotions from the atmosphere of the bedouin desert at night.
Of course, in real life, the real Bedouin camp looked a little different. But here it is also colorful, and the locals traditionally will not miss the chance to make money on tourists and offer for an additional fee:
- ride camels (although it depends on the program, it can be free)
- drive ATVs — $41
- Rent a double buggy – $95
- ride a board on the sand — $5
- make a henna tattoo
- alcohol at dinner
- hookah
- buy souvenirs that the Bedouins made themselves
Luxury Desert Safari in Dubai
One type of desert safari in Dubai, Luxury Safari includes discovering dunes via SUVs for those trips that adventurers and lovers usually prefer to enjoy the splendour of the vast desert, and please note that if you have a mobility roundabout, this type of desert safari may not be right for you.
During these tours, you will usually arrive at the camp after the dune adventure, where you can experience camel riding, henna tattoos and falconry photos. When the sun starts to sunset, you’ll be invited to a delicious traditional grill dinner with unlimited soft drinks. While dining, you’ll enjoy the beautiful Oriental shows, and once the activities finished, this tour, which usually lasts 5 to 6 hours, will end.
Overnight Desert Safari in Dubai
The evening safari includes everything the same as the morning excursion: riding in a Land Cruiser jeep, transfers, Bedouin camp. A bonus is photos in the desert against the backdrop of the setting sun. It looks really enchanting.
Sometimes the package includes camel riding, quad biking, double buggies and sandboarding. But more often these options paid separately – again, check before booking.
The duration of the tour is about 6 hours. The evening safari ends with a barbecue dinner and a whole show program at the Bedouin camp. Tourists entertained with belly dancing, performances with fire and national dances. For an additional fee they will bring hookah and alcohol. In general, in the Bedouin camp you can spend the evening no worse than in the restaurant – fun, satisfying and colorful in its own way.
Morning Desert Safari in Dubai
The morning tour starts early – at 7-8 am – and lasts about 4 hours. Ideally, the tour ends before noon, so as not to fall into the very inferno in the desert.
The guide picks up tourists from the hotel and takes them to the desert. The journey takes about 45-60 minutes. The off-road safari itself lasts 30-45 minutes. This enough to recharge with adrenaline from steep climbs and turns on desert dunes and not get tired.
Then there is a little time for sandboarding, camel riding and quad biking. Usually, these options come for an additional fee, but sometimes included in the tour – depending on the package you have chosen. Always be clear about what included in your tour so that there is no misunderstanding on the spot.
After having fun in the sand, the group goes to Al Khaimah’s camp. There, tourists served tea, Arabic coffee, fed dates and introduced to traditional Bedouin culture. Here you can see how camels live on the farm and even take a ride on the “ship of the desert”. Then everyone taken to hotels.
What to bring with you on a safari to the desert
- Comfortable clothes and foot sandals.
- In the cold months (November to January) be sure to bring a jacket if you are on evening safaris.
- Water and snacks.
Things to consider before choosing desert safaris
Meal
Meals can vary on safari so you should inquire about food before booking. If you are a vegetarian or have special nutritional needs, you should tell the tour provider in advance to make sure the right food is available.
Prices
Dear visitor you should know that the price of your safari depends on the type of safari you book, too, if you are booking group safaris you can usually get a discount. Just ask your tour operators to do so.
With affordable safaris offering only basic amenities, along with high-end luxury safaris, which, while costing you some money, offer a very special experience with the perfect amenities.
Dubai Desert Safari Service Provider
Hatta Oman Safari
Hatta Oman Safari offers plenty of exciting trips and you’ll spend the best evenings.
Timing: 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Price: AED 250.
Top activities:
- Enjoy 4×4 trips in the heart of the desert.
- Discover the heritage village and get to know the most important historical stations the UAE has ever known.
- Enjoy a wonderful and unconventional lunch inspired by the fragrant desert.
- Swim in a natural and distinct pool to make the journey more fresh.
Desert Safari in Dubai: Camel Safari
Camel riding is the most important feature of the safari that crosses the desert, especially since the camel is its ship and the secret of its excellence.
Camel Safari offers excellent and elegant journeys that cross the depths of the desert and make the desert even more wonderful.
Timing: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Price: AED 200.
Top activities:
- Enjoy driving deep into the desert in Dubai.
- 30 minutes of wandering around the beauty and enjoying the privileged journey.
- Discover the emirate’s outstanding details and enjoy its cultural and historical stock.
Desert Safari by Alhammer
For a luxurious experience, you can enjoy a magical journey deep into dubai’s desert on a premium Hummer.
The journey will be even more distinctive when choosing a powerful and luxurious mode of transport similar to this type of SUV.
Timing: From 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Price: AED 300
Top activities:
- Experience getting around in a Hummer 4×4 for more fun and happiness.
- A great barbecue and a luxurious dinner for a more spectacular experience deep in the desert.
- Riding beauty and enjoying a different and elegant journey in a trip is the best.
