The Dubai Desert Safari Tour is one of the most sought-after adventures in the United Arab Emirates. With its golden dunes, expansive landscapes, and mesmerizing sunsets, it offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and serenity of the desert, while also providing an adrenaline-pumping experience for thrill-seekers. From dune bashing to camel riding, Dubai desert safari tours have something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a tranquil escape or a high-octane adventure, these tours offer a blend of cultural heritage and modern-day excitement.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of Dubai desert safari tours, what you can expect from each, and how to make the most of your desert experience.
1. Types of Dubai Desert Safari Tours
Dubai desert safari tours are categorized based on the time of day and the activities involved. Here are the most popular types:
Morning Desert Safari
The morning desert safari is perfect for those who prefer a cooler and quieter desert experience. The desert at sunrise is stunning, with the soft light casting long shadows across the dunes. The cool breeze makes it the ideal time for activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and quad-biking.
Activities in a morning safari often include:
- Dune Bashing: A thrilling ride across the dunes in a 4×4 vehicle, driven by experienced guides.
- Sandboarding: For adventure enthusiasts, sandboarding down the dunes is an exhilarating experience.
- Quad Biking: For those who love speed, quad biking offers a fun and energetic way to explore the desert.
The morning safari usually lasts for about 2-3 hours, making it a great option for travellers with a busy schedule.
Evening Desert Safari
The evening desert safari is by far the most popular. The allure of the desert at sunset, combined with a host of traditional Arabian experiences, makes it the perfect way to end the day.
Evening tours typically offer:
- Dune Bashing: Like the morning safari, evening tours include a dune bashing session where guests experience the thrill of driving up and down the sand dunes.
- Camel Riding: For a more traditional desert experience, a camel ride gives you a chance to feel like a nomad crossing the sands.
- Sunset Photography: The desert sunset is a breathtaking sight, and many tours offer time for guests to capture it on camera.
- BBQ Dinner and Live Entertainment: As the sun sets, most evening desert safaris include a barbecue dinner under the stars, with traditional entertainment like belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and fire shows. The evening safari is perfect for those looking to combine adventure with cultural immersion.
Overnight Desert Safari
For the ultimate desert experience, the overnight desert safari allows you to spend the night in the desert. After the evening activities, you’ll settle down in a Bedouin-style camp and sleep under the stars. The overnight safari gives you a chance to experience the tranquillity of the desert at night and enjoy the cooler temperatures.
In addition to the activities offered during the evening safari, the overnight option includes:
- Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the desert is an excellent place for stargazing.
- Traditional Bedouin Camps: Sleep in a traditional Arabian tent and enjoy the silence of the desert.
- Desert Sunrise: Wake up early to witness the stunning sunrise over the dunes.
Private Desert Safari
For those who prefer a more personalized experience, private desert safari tours offer exclusivity and flexibility. You can choose the activities you want, set your own pace, and enjoy the desert in a more intimate setting. This option is ideal for families, couples, or anyone who wants a tailored desert adventure.
2. What to Expect on a Dubai Desert Safari Tour
Regardless of the type of tour you choose, there are a few common elements that all Dubai desert safaris share. Here’s what you can typically expect:
Pickup and Drop-Off
Most tours include pickup and drop-off from your hotel or a designated location in Dubai. The journey to the desert takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your location. Vehicles used are typically air-conditioned 4×4 SUVs, designed to handle the desert terrain.
Dune Bashing
One of the highlights of any desert safari is dune bashing. In this thrilling activity, you’ll ride in a 4×4 driven by an expert, who will navigate the steep dunes at high speeds. It’s an adrenaline rush as the vehicle climbs up and down the shifting sands. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, some tours offer lighter versions of dune bashing or allow you to skip it altogether.
Camel Riding
Camel rides are a quintessential part of the desert safari experience. Camels, often referred to as the “ships of the desert,” have been used by Bedouins for centuries to traverse the desert. While the ride is typically short (about 10-15 minutes), it gives you a taste of traditional desert life.
Sandboarding
For those seeking adventure, sandboarding is a must-try activity. Similar to snowboarding, sandboarding involves riding a board down the dunes. It’s a fun and relatively easy activity, suitable for beginners and more experienced adventurers alike.
Quad Biking
Quad biking offers an exciting way to explore the desert at your own pace. On some tours, quad bikes are available for rent, allowing you to zoom across the dunes. It’s a thrilling experience for those who want to feel the wind in their hair as they race through the desert.
Desert Camp Experience
Most desert safari tours end with a visit to a desert camp. These camps are set up in traditional Bedouin style, offering a glimpse into the nomadic life. At the camp, you can enjoy a range of activities, including:
- Henna Painting: Get your hands or feet adorned with beautiful henna designs.
- Shisha Smoking: Relax in a Bedouin tent while smoking flavoured shisha.
- Traditional Dress Photography: Some tours offer the opportunity to dress up in traditional Arabic attire for a photo session.
The camp is also where you’ll enjoy dinner and entertainment. The food typically includes a mix of barbecue, salads, and traditional Arabian dishes. The entertainment, which often includes belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and fire shows, provides a lively end to your desert adventure.
3. Tips for Making the Most of Your Desert Safari Tour
To ensure you have the best possible experience, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Dress Comfortably
The desert can be hot during the day and cool at night, so it’s important to dress in lightweight, breathable clothing. Avoid tight clothes and opt for loose, comfortable garments. If you’re going on an evening or overnight safari, bring a light jacket as the temperature can drop significantly after sunset.
Stay Hydrated
The desert heat can be intense, especially during the summer months, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Most tours provide water, but it’s always a good idea to bring your bottle.
Use Sunscreen
The desert sun is strong, even in the early morning or late afternoon, so be sure to apply sunscreen before heading out. Sunglasses and a hat are also recommended to protect yourself from the sun.
Bring a Camera
The desert offers countless photo opportunities, from the golden dunes to the stunning sunset. Be sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the memories. If you’re planning on sandboarding or quad biking, consider using a GoPro or another action camera to film the action.
Book in Advance
Desert safaris are popular, especially during the peak tourist season (November to March), so it’s advisable to book your tour in advance to secure your spot.
4. The Best Time for a Dubai Desert Safari Tour
The best time to go on a desert safari is during the cooler months, from November to March. During this period, the weather is more pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C (68°F and 86°F). In contrast, the summer months (June to September) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), making the experience less enjoyable for some visitors.
Evening and overnight safaris are more popular during the summer as the desert cools down after sunset. However, if you can tolerate the heat, morning safaris offer a quieter and less crowded experience during the summer.
5. Conclusion
A Dubai desert safari tour is an unforgettable adventure that offers a perfect blend of excitement, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking thrills, relaxation, or a deeper connection to the Arabian landscape, there’s a safari that will meet your needs. With activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and stargazing, Dubai’s desert offers a unique and magical experience for every traveller. So, pack your bags, prepare for an adventure, and discover the wonders of the Dubai desert for yourself.