The Dubai Emirate is home to glistening skyscrapers, a stunning skyline, architectural marvels at the cutting edge of technology, a rich cultural heritage, and wonderful customs, all of which can be found in various locations throughout the city. The deserts of Dubai are home to some of the best-kept secrets, which are currently competing to be discovered by the city's large number of tourists.
Find out fascinating information about the culture of the Bedouin people and get a glimpse into how they live in this enormous desert landscape. The fact that the desert safari is suitable for people of all ages is the finest part, and the fact that various fun activities can be enjoyed on a Dubai Desert Safari with children is also among the best features. If this will be your first time exploring the desert terrains of Dubai, there are a few important things you should keep in mind to ensure that this trip is one you will never forget.
This ultimate guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan and enjoy the ultimate Dubai Desert Safari.
An Overview of Dubai Desert Safari
Desert safaris in Dubai are one of the most fascinating, exciting, and stunning ways to see the local culture while getting close to nature. It is also a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view the Arabian wilderness, so tourists worldwide will throng to the desert and the Bedouin way of life to witness it. The safari typically involves a four-wheel drive vehicle that takes visitors through the sand dunes, giving them an exhilarating ride. Along the way, visitors can enjoy traditional Emirati entertainment, such as belly dancing, henna tattoos, and camel rides. The safari also includes a stop at a Bedouin-style camp, where visitors can enjoy a delicious Arabic or Continental BBQ dinner buffet and sheesha while watching a stunning sunset over the desert.
The Different Types of Dubai Desert Safari
Whether you want to experience the beauty and rich culture of Dubai's deserts at dusk or dawn on a luxurious Range Rover or a thrilling 4x4 drive, there are many different types of desert safaris available for you to choose from. These safaris allow you to experience the deserts in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most common sorts of travel for you to pick from, and your decision should be based on your interests as well as your travel preferences.
Sunrise Desert Safari
This relaxing tour of the desert in Dubai takes place early in the morning. The tour will begin at 4:15 AM in the morning, providing you with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the sun rising over the horizon of the desert.
During the tour, you can ride a camel, go dune bashing, and stop for photos at a camel farm. You are also served Arabian breakfast on a low table and stools. The food and drinks truly represent the middle eastern taste with Arabic tea, several types of dates, sweets, omelets, and more.
Morning Desert Safari
Because these safari experiences begin so early in the morning, you can view the breathtaking sunrise over the desert. Depending on the company that runs the tour, morning desert safaris are typically more relaxing and may include sandboarding, watching the sunrise, and breakfast as some of the activities.
A morning desert safari is an ideal opportunity to discover and appreciate the desert in the relative calm and serenity of early nightfall before the bustle and activity of the city begin to emerge. Spend some time unwinding in the desert tent, and start your day like a true Bedouin by indulging in some Arabic coffee and dates. Some morning safari events feature additional, special morning activities, such as rides in hot air balloons and excursions to view wildlife.
Evening Desert Safari
Evening desert safaris include everything included in the morning desert safaris, a delectable barbecue dinner, and cultural festivities, including henna, falconry demonstrations, smoking hookah, and other traditional Emirati cultural acts like belly dancing and fire shows. While you are taking everything in, you will, without a doubt, be fascinated with the spectacular landscape of the desert, which the red, pink, and golden tones of the setting sun will illuminate.
Overnight Desert Safari
At night, the desert in Dubai reveals its full splendor and majesty for visitors to experience. Engage in a profusion of activities with a desert-based theme, gorge yourself with a scrumptious meal, see some traditional entertainment, and take in a spiritual stay beneath the Arabian desert sky's canopy. If you go with this option, you will, first and foremost, have the opportunity to take in the beautiful views of the sun setting and rising over the desert.
Luxury Safari
These are essentially similar to overnights, but they provide a higher level of comfort by providing luxury transportation alternatives such as private SUVs rather than camels or horses, higher quality cuisine, and better amenities like air conditioning within the tents and a variety of drinks. Such tours are ideal for romantic getaways or families who want to spend some quality time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Choosing The Ideal Desert Safari
When making reservations for a desert safari in Dubai, you should carefully consider various aspects, such as your budget, the activities that will be included, and the time of day you would like to spend in the desert.
The morning safari is the best option if you don't have much time. An evening or overnight Dubai Desert Safari is most favorable for tourists with more time and everyone who enjoys an exciting new experience.
Be aware that the costs of desert expeditions might vary considerably. The majority of the cost of your safari will be determined by the exciting activities you choose, the type of vehicle you go with, and any add-ons you go with, such as whether you take shared or private transportation to and from the desert.
Planning Your Desert Safari
Dubai Desert Safari is a unique and thrilling experience that will take you out of your comfort zone and into the heart of the Arabian desert. To ensure that your desert safari is an enjoyable and unforgettable excursion, it is important to plan ahead. Here are some tips to help you plan your desert safari:
- Do your research: Do some research and check out some reviews to locate the best Dubai Desert Safari tour that is within your price range and caters to the way you want to travel as well as the things that interest you.
- Book in advance - Desert safaris are popular and can sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist season. It is recommended to book your safari in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Prioritize age and health restrictions - Desert safaris have age and health requirements that participants must meet to participate safely. These requirements are in place to prevent guests from getting hurt. Before making a reservation, it is essential to ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the limits.
- Check the weather - The weather in the desert can be unpredictable, so it is important to check the weather forecast before booking your safari. During the summer, temperatures can soar above 40 degrees Celsius, so it may be best to opt for a morning or evening safari.
- Dress appropriately - The desert can get extremely hot during the day and cold at night, so it is essential to dress appropriately. Loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics is recommended, and it is also a good idea to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Stay hydrated - It is crucial to stay hydrated during the desert safari, especially in the summer when temperatures reach 40 degrees Celsius. Bottled water is usually provided, but bringing your own water bottle is also a good idea.
- Follow your guide's instructions - The desert can be dangerous, so it is imperative to follow your guide's instructions at all times. This includes wearing your seatbelt during the dune bashing and staying within the designated areas.
- Respect the local culture - The desert safari is an excellent opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditions of the UAE. Be respectful and dress modestly, especially when visiting a mosque or interacting with locals.
Things to Do During Your Dubai Desert Safari
The following is a list of the most common activities included in a Dubai Desert Safari tour. Remember that each desert safari offers its unique collection of adventures. Before making a reservation, it is highly recommended that you check the details of your itinerary to see which activities are included.
Camel Ride
A trip to Dubai without at least one camel ride is incomplete. Experience the magnificence of the desert dunes while reveling in an exhilarating and one-of-a-kind activity by riding a camel around the landscape. It is exciting and entertaining and allows you to gain insight into the conventional manner of living that Emiratis practiced in the past.
Camelback riding is an exhilarating activity that takes one back in time to the adventurous days of explorers. Camel riding, as opposed to driving in a 4x4 vehicle, is a slower and more reflective mode of transportation that enables travelers to take in the sights, smells, and sounds of the desert.
Try Dune Bashing
Dune bashing is undoubtedly the highlight of the Dubai Desert Safari experience. Dune bashing is an exhilarating experience that may be had in a four-wheel drive vehicle with a trained guide. This exciting pursuit is frequently included in jeep safari tours and is ideal for those looking for a rush.
It is recommended that visitors to Dubai take a dune-bashing ride just before the sun sets to get the most out of the breathtaking desert sunset. Observe how the sky goes from orange to blue as time passes. Do not pass up the amazing chance that has been presented to you.
Biking in the desert
Take part in an exciting guided excursion that allows you to ride a sand bike across the dunes of the desert. Check that you have all the essential protective gear for this ride before you set out. These excursions can be pricey, but they are perfect for thrill-seeking cyclists who want to test their limits and get their blood pumping.
You can ride a fat tire bicycle if you do not want to ride a traditional one. These bikes, fitted with bigger tires, make it possible to go across the dunes of the desert when accompanied by an experienced guide. Fat bike tours take you on a ride across the desert that lasts for five hours; thus, if you are up for a test of your physical ability, sign up for one of these tours.
Sandboarding
Sandboarding is an activity that is offered on some desert safaris. During this part of the excursion, you will ride a specially designed sandboard that will gracefully carry you over the sand dunes as you enter the desert. This simple game is exciting while at the same time being completely risk-free.
See The Desert From A Hot Balloon
Take a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective of the desert landscape. These adventures often start bright and early in the morning so that participants can take full advantage of the breathtaking sunrise vistas. Consider riding in a hot air balloon if you're feeling daring, and don't forget to bring your camera so you can record the gorgeous scenery.
Wildlife spotting
While on a Dubai Desert Safari, you might get to see some of the exotic animals native to Dubai, such as camels, falcons, Arabian onyx, and other fascinating creatures from the area.
With the assistance of the facility's trained caretakers, you can get up close and personal with the country's national birds as they rest on your hand. You can take pictures of the bird with your camera to preserve the occasion for all time.
BBQ Dinner
One of the most notable aspects of a desert safari in Dubai is the delectable food, which, depending on the operator of the excursion, can come in various forms. You are welcome to indulge in a lavish barbecue feast featuring live cooking stations and an assortment of fresh fruits, classic desserts, and other delectable offerings. Therefore, if you go on a Dubai Desert Safari, you shouldn't forget to sign up for the barbecue meal.
What to Pack for Your Dubai Desert Safari
Here are some of the things you should bring with you on your Dubai desert safari:
- Camera: A camera is a must-have item for any trip, and it's especially important to have one when participating in such an exciting activity. You'll want a good camera that can take photos both during the day and at night.
- Sunglasses: Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays when spending time outdoors in Dubai is important. Ensure that the pair of sunglasses you bring has 100% UV protection!
- Water Bottle: Hydration is key when exploring sandy landscapes like those found at many of Dubai's popular attractions, so ensure you bring enough water and refill throughout the day (or else risk dehydration).
- Sunscreen: The sun's rays can be harsh even during winter; apply sunscreen regularly and reapply after swimming or sweating profusely to not burn yourself later on!
What to Wear On a Desert Safari
If you prefer not having sand and dust particles rubbing against every part of your body during your Dubai Desert Safari, the following is a tip for what clothes to wear and what to bring with you:
- Choose more open and airy materials, such as linen and cotton, and lighter in color, as these will absorb less heat.
- Wearing slacks and blouses with long sleeves is the best strategy to shield yourself from the sun while keeping you warmer after the sun goes down. It's also much easier on the back when riding a camel or a quad bike rather than a horse or a car!
- If you want to participate in any adventurous activity, avoid wearing skirts.
- Bring a jacket with you in case the evening and nighttime temperatures drop significantly. During the day, a shawl is an excellent choice that will keep you warm and shield your skin from the sun and any dust that may be present.
- Put on sun protection, including a hat, shades, and lots of sunscreens.
- Sandals are the ideal footwear choice since they prevent the foot from slipping off and are simple to clean when they become dirty from the sand. Covered shoes are another practical footwear alternative.
The Best Time to Visit Dubai Desert Safari
You should go to Dubai Desert Safari in winter to get the greatest experience. The weather has become more pleasant, making it easier for you and your family to relax and enjoy yourselves. It also implies that there will be fewer tourists in the area, which means you can enjoy the experience without waiting in huge lines or competing with other people for space in vehicles. If you are considering going during the summer months of June through August, you might want to think about doing something different instead.
If you decide to go during these months, planning ahead by purchasing tickets online in advance ensures that there won't be any waiting around.
How to Get to Dubai Desert Safari
The easiest way to get to Dubai Desert Safari is by flying into Dubai International Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car. If you're traveling with other people and want to share the cost of transportation, consider taking one of the many tour buses that leave from various locations around town.
If you're unsure whether your hotel is located according to these options, ask your concierge or look up directions online before heading out on your adventure!
Conclusion
Every visitor should at least try to visit Dubai Desert Safari once in their lifetime. Camel rides, dune bashing, ATV biking, sand biking, hot air balloon tours, exotic dances, and fat bike expeditions are just some of the things that may be enjoyed in the one-of-a-kind terrain that is the desert.
It would be a shame to miss out on the delicious food and live entertainment offered at the desert camps. You can discover the splendor and culture of the desert with the assistance of a competent guide, and the experiences you have there will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.