Best Desert Safari in Dubai

Desert safari adventures are highly sought-after attractions in Dubai. For those who have never done it before, it consists of just booking a tour, taking a ride through a desert on a safari, and eating dinner. In reality, it is much more complicated to find a tour that is actually worth the money. It is easy to find big tour groups, cold meals, and crowded buses.

Do not let this discourage you. We have researched many desert safari options and have compiled a list of the best options to ensure you have the best experience.

Step 1: Pick the Best Time to Go

Desert safari options are divided into morning and evening safaris to help you decide when you want to experience it. Morning safaris are better for those who are short on time, but evenings have more options. They include dinner, sunset views, and entertainment.

Overnight Safari: An adventure awaits you if you choose to stay out in the desert until morning. You can sleep in a tent and have breakfast while the sun rises over the desert.

Consider how much time you have available. If you want the full "Dubai experience", which includes dinner and shows, the Evening Safari is typically the best option for the majority of people.

Step 2: Shared Car vs. Private Car

When you book your safari, you must choose how you want to travel. You can choose between two options:

Shared Safari: You will share a 4x4 vehicle with other tourists (usually a total of 6 people). This is the cheaper option and a nice way to make new acquaintances. You might feel more crowded, and you can't be the one to tell the driver to slow down or speed up because other people are in the car as well.

Private Safari: You will book the entire vehicle for just you, your family or your friends. It may be more expensive, but a Private Safari is definitely more comfortable. You will be in a position to tell the driver to take more pictures, spend more time in your best-loved areas, or drive more gently if you have fragile little ones with you.

Our Advice: If you are a couple on a romantic getaway or a family with little ones, a Private Safari is worth the added cost for the extra comfort and seclusion.

Step 3: Beware of Deals that are Too Good to be True

When booking an ad for desert safaris, you might find something that looks enticing. A desert safari for 70 AED or 80 AED ($20) is sometimes advertised. Sounds great, but usually prices that low are a huge red flag.

Here's what happens when booking a cheap desert safari:

Additional Charges: They often charge you for basic things such as water, a short camel ride, or even for your dinner plate.

Overcrowded Camps: You might be with 500 or even 1,000 people. This means you will have to wait in long lines to eat, and there will be no space to watch the shows.

Old Cars: The cheap-rated companies will use older cars, not the newer ones with better safety and comfort used by the top-rated companies.

Ways to Keep Safe:

Ask for the Price Breakdown: You should always ask if the price includes hotel pickup, dinner, and if they will be doing all the activities that you have to do.

Look for a Permit: It is good to look to see if they have a permit from the Dubai Tourism Department (DTCM). This is important because they have to provide trained drivers and better insurance to the drivers.

Look for Recent Reviews: star ratings are not enough. You have to read last month's reviews.

Before You Click the "Book Now" Button

Before you click the "Book Now" button, jumpstart your travel checklist one last time:

Look for Hidden Fees: Check for hotel pickup, dinner, and drinks that are included in the price. Check to see that there are no hidden fees.

Pick Your Time: Morning (fast and fun) or Evening (dinner and shows)?

Choose Your Car: Shared (cheaper) or Private (more comfy)?

Read the Reviews: Do recent comments from other travelers mention happy food and driver experiences?

Ask About the Camp: Are there 1,000 people (huge) or just a tiny private one (smaller is better!)

Brief Packing Tips:

• Scarf (to protect from wind and sun),
• Cool (to stay safe while hiking and avoid burns),
• Light (to stay comfy as the desert will be cold at night),
• Feet (to protect them from burning) - close shoes (sneakers)

Conclusion

Booking a desert safari should be easy. Do these simple tasks, and you can avoid the tourist traps and have a perfect day in the Dubai dunes. Ready?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is it safe for children and seniors?

Yes. For families traveling with small children or elderly people, we suggest booking a Private Car, as the driver will go slow and avoid big bumps to keep everyone comfortable.

2. What should I wear for the safari?

Wear comfortable and loose clothing such as T-Shirts, stretchable shorts, or trousers. As for footwear, it would be best to wear sandals or flip-flops, as these are easy to clean if some sand gets into the shoes. If you are going to be at the safari in the evening, be sure to bring a light jacket as it can get cold!

3. What kind of food is served?

Most safaris provide a large BBQ Buffet dinner. This consists of grilled meats (chicken and lamb), salads, and rice with some appetizers. Something to note is that there are always a good number of vegetarian options.

4. Will I get motion sickness during dune bashing?

Dune bashing is just like a roller coaster. If you get motion sickness easily, the best thing to do would be to have a very light meal before the trip. Your driver can also make the ride "gentle" instead of "adventurous" if you ask him.

Want to book your Dubai adventure? Get in touch with us today, and we will get you and your family the best desert safari package!