Unveiling the Marvels of Dubai Desert Safari

Tuesday, 7 January 2025

A desert safari in Dubai is a must-do experience for anyone visiting the city. It offers an exciting adventure while allowing you to explore the stunning desert landscape and observe Dubai’s native wildlife. With a variety of options available, you’re sure to find a desert excursion that perfectly matches your interests and preferences.

Dubai’s terrain primarily consists of sandy deserts, complemented by gravel-filled areas in the southern region of the UAE. The sand here is pristine, white, and fine, made up of crushed shells and corals. A desert safari in the nearby sandy landscape offers an exhilarating and electrifying adventure. With so many exciting desert excursions available, selecting the right one can be a challenge. The adventure begins with a pick-up, where you’ll board a 4×4 vehicle for an unforgettable ride.

Table of Contents

• Overview
• Facilities for Morning & Evening Safaris:
• Luxurious Stays: Top Hotel Choices for Dubai Desert Safari Adventurers
• Frequently asked questions

Overview

Embracing culture and tradition is a great way to stay connected to our roots. The Dubai Desert Safari exemplifies this, offering a perfect blend of experiences for visitors. Here, one can enjoy thrilling adventures, immerse in nature, indulge in delicious cuisine, and engage in cultural activities. This experience offers a fascinating insight into the Bedouin lifestyle, which has been practiced for centuries by the Bedouin tribes. Let’s explore the history and traditions associated with the Dubai desert safari

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Dubai for a desert safari is from November to March, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. The intense heat and arid climate of May to September can lead to dehydration and sunstroke

What to Expect:

A Dubai desert safari offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, giving you a glimpse into the stunning desert landscapes surrounding the city. Here’s what to expect:

• Dune Bashing: Ride in a 4×4 vehicle as a skilled driver takes you over the undulating sand dunes. Expect thrilling drops and sharp turns for an adrenaline rush.
• Camel Riding: Enjoy a gentle camel ride, a traditional means of transportation in the desert, allowing you to take in the vast landscape.
• Sandboarding: Slide down the dunes on a sandboard, providing an exhilarating experience similar to snowboarding but on sand.
• Cultural Experiences: Participate in activities such as henna painting, watching falconry displays, and enjoying traditional dance performances like the Tanoura dance.
• Dinner and Refreshments: Evening safaris typically include a buffet dinner with a variety of Arabic cuisine, drinks, and desserts under the stars.
• Stargazing: Marvel at the night sky, where you can see countless stars away from the city lights.

Facilities for Morning & Evening Safaris:

Morning Safari

Morning safaris are typically shorter, lasting around 3-4 hours, making them perfect for those with limited time or those who prefer an adventure-filled morning in the desert before returning to the city.

Morning safaris are ideal for those who prefer cooler temperatures and want a shorter, more activity-focused experience. Here’s what you can expect:

• Pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or designated location.
• Dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding.
• Light refreshments (such as water and snacks).
• Wildlife spotting opportunities, as mornings are ideal for viewing desert flora and fauna.

Evening Safari Facilities:

The evening desert safari typically lasts around 6-7 hours and offers a more complete experience, with a mix of adventure, cultural entertainment, and dining under the stars, making it a perfect choice for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy the desert in all its splendor.

Evening safaris are more popular due to the range of activities and cultural experiences offered. They usually start in the late afternoon and go into the evening, making it a more immersive experience. Here’s what you can expect:

• Pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or designated location.
• Dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and sunset photography opportunities.
• A buffet dinner with a variety of dishes (vegetarian and non-vegetarian options).
• Traditional entertainment (belly dancing, Tanoura dance).
• Coffee and tea service, along with sheesha (hookah) options.

Cost Per Person:

The cost of a desert safari in Dubai can vary depending on the type of experience, the inclusions, and the provider. Here’s an approximate breakdown:

• Budget Type:
  • Cost: Approximately AED 50-150 per person for Dubai residents (with some promotions or packages available at even lower rates).
  • Facilities Included: Basic dune bashing, camel riding, light refreshments, and drop-off services.
• High-End Luxury Type:
  • Cost: Approximately AED 600-1,200 per person.
  • Facilities Included: Premium 4×4 vehicles, private guides, gourmet dinner options, upgraded desert camps, comfortable seating, and exclusive entertainment.

Additional Tips:

Here are some additional tips for making the most out of your desert safari experience in Dubai:

• Book in Advance: To secure the best rates and options, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Dress Appropriately: Lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring water and stay hydrated throughout the adventure.

Tips for Residents:

• Look for Local Promotions: Many safari operators offer special rates for Dubai residents. It’s worth checking social media pages, local travel agencies, or group deals.
• Group Bookings: Some operators provide discounts for larger groups, making it more affordable per person.

Luxurious Stays: Top Hotel Choices for Dubai Desert Safari Adventurers

Here are five affordable hotels in Dubai that offer great value for money and are conveniently located for a Dubai Desert Safari experience:

1. Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf

• Location: Al Jaddaf, near Dubai Creek.
• Approximate Cost: AED 250–300 per night.
• Facilities:
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Rooftop swimming pool
  • Fitness center
  • On-site restaurant
  • Complimentary shuttle service to key attractions (like Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa)
  • Family rooms available.
• Why It’s Affordable: This hotel offers a clean, modern stay at reasonable rates and is conveniently located near major attractions, including desert safari pickup points.

2. Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Seef

• Location: Dubai Creek, Al Seef.
• Approximate Cost: AED 300–350 per night.
• Facilities:
  • Complimentary breakfast
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Fitness center
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Pet-friendly options.
• Why It’s Affordable: Its competitive pricing in a prime location makes it a great choice for travelers looking to explore both cultural and adventure activities.

3. Rove Downtown Dubai

• Location: Downtown Dubai, near Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.
• Approximate Cost: AED 350–400 per night.
• Facilities:
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor swimming pool and sundeck
  • 24-hour gym
  • Cinema room
  • Co-working spaces
  • Shuttle service to popular spots.
• Why It’s Affordable: Offers a trendy vibe at a relatively low price for its prime location, with easy access to attractions and desert safari departures.

4. Citymax Hotel Bur Dubai

• Location: Bur Dubai, near Meena Bazaar.
• Approximate Cost: AED 200–250 per night.
• Facilities:
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Rooftop pool
  • 24-hour coffee shop
  • Fitness center
  • On-site restaurant and sports bar.
• Why It’s Affordable: It provides budget-conscious travelers with a central location and great amenities, making it easy to access desert safari operators.

5. Ibis Styles Dubai Jumeira

• Location: Jumeirah, near La Mer Beach.
• Approximate Cost: AED 300–350 per night.
• Facilities:
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Indoor pool
  • Fitness center
  • Restaurant and café
  • Complimentary breakfast.
• Why It’s Affordable: Combines proximity to both the beach and major attractions, ensuring guests enjoy a budget-friendly stay.