How to Book a Desert Safari in Dubai ?

Dubai offers a wide range of experiences, from luxurious shopping malls to towering skyscrapers, but one of the most unforgettable adventures is the desert safari. Exploring the vast desert sands, trying exciting activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and enjoying a traditional Arabian feast under the stars is an experience you won’t want to miss. However, with so many options available, the question arises: How do you book a desert safari in Dubai?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of booking a desert safari, including what to expect, where to book, and tips to ensure you make the most out of your desert adventure.

Choose Your Type of Desert Safari

Before you book, it’s essential to know what kind of desert safari suits your preferences. Dubai offers several options, each tailored to different tastes, schedules, and budgets.

Morning Desert Safari

For men, the desert environment requires practical and light clothing. You want to stay comfortable while respecting local customs, especially if your safari involves interaction with local communities.

• Best for : Those who want a quick and thrilling experience early in the day.
• Activities : Dune bashing, camel ride, and light snacks or breakfast.
• Duration :Typically 3 to 4 hours.
• Price Range :AED 150 to AED 250 per person ($40 - $70 USD).

Evening Desert Safari

• Best for : Those looking for a more extensive desert experience, including dinner and entertainment.
• Activities : Dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, BBQ dinner, belly dancing, and cultural performances.
• Duration :6 to 7 hours.
• Price Range :AED 250 to AED 400 per person ($70 - $110 USD).

Overnight Desert Safari

• Best for : Those who want to spend the night in the desert for a more immersive experience.
• Activities : Dune bashing, camel riding, BBQ dinner, stargazing, cultural performances, and an overnight stay in a desert camp.
• Duration : 12 to 14 hours.
• Price Range : AED 600 to AED 1,200 per person ($160 - $330 USD).

Private Desert Safari

• Best for : Couples or small groups who want a more personalized, luxurious experience.
• Activities : Customizable based on your interests, with private 4x4 vehicles, gourmet dinners, and personalized entertainment.
• Duration : Varies.
• Price Range : AED 1,000 to AED 2,500 per person ($270 - $680 USD).

Decide on How You Want to Book

Once you’ve selected the type of safari, you can decide how to book it. Here are the most common methods to reserve your desert safari in Dubai:

Online Booking (Most Convenient)

Booking a desert safari online is the easiest and most popular option. It allows you to browse various packages, compare prices, and read customer reviews.

• How to do it : Visit reputable websites like Viator, GetYourGuide, Dubai Desert Safari, or TripAdvisor. These platforms list various operators, offering packages that include different activities, prices, and options to match your needs.
• Steps to Book :
  • Go to a booking website (e.g., Viator or GetYourGuide).
  • Browse available desert safari options based on the type you prefer (morning, evening, overnight, etc.).
  • Select your desired safari and choose the date of the tour.
  • Input the number of participants.
  • Confirm the payment and receive a booking confirmation via email.

Hotel Concierge or Tour Desk

If you’re already in Dubai, booking through your hotel’s concierge or tour desk is another excellent option. Many luxury hotels offer desert safari packages or will direct you to trusted local tour operators.

• How to do it : Simply visit the concierge desk at your hotel, or call the tour desk, and ask them to book a desert safari for you. Provide them with your preferences (e.g., morning, evening, or private safari) and your ideal date.
• Advantages : Convenience and personal recommendations. Sometimes, hotels offer exclusive discounts or special deals.

Direct Booking with Tour Operators

If you prefer to book directly, you can reach out to local tour operators who specialize in desert safaris. This method might allow for more customization in your safari experience, particularly if you are booking a private tour.

• How to do it : Search for well-known desert safari companies like Platinum Heritage, Arabian Adventures, or Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Visit their websites, explore their safari packages, and directly inquire about availability and booking.
• Advantages : Direct communication with the operator for a more tailored experience.

Booking Through Travel Agencies

Many travel agencies offer complete Dubai vacation packages that include desert safaris. This is a great option if you are looking for a more comprehensive trip to Dubai, including airport transfers, hotel stays, and tours.

• How to do it : Search for local travel agencies in Dubai or book packages from online travel websites like Expedia or Booking.com that include desert safaris as part of a package.
• Advantages : Convenience if you're booking a larger itinerary.

What to Expect After Booking

Once you’ve secured your booking, you should expect the following:

Pick-Up and Drop-Off

Most desert safari operators provide transportation from your hotel to the desert and back. Make sure to confirm the pick-up time and location in advance. Typically, pick-ups are in the late afternoon for evening safaris or early morning for morning safaris.

• Tip : Arrive at your hotel’s designated pick-up area 10-15 minutes before the scheduled time to avoid delays.

Safety and Preparation

The desert safari includes thrilling activities like dune bashing, so it's important to listen to your driver’s safety instructions carefully. Drivers are well-trained to navigate the dunes, but it’s still important to follow guidelines and seatbelt rules during the ride.

• Dress Code : Wear light, breathable clothing for the day, but bring a jacket or shawl for the cooler desert evenings. Comfortable shoes are also recommended if you plan to try activities like camel riding or sandboarding.

Activity Details

• Dune Bashing : This is the highlight of the safari where a skilled driver takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the desert dunes. The duration of dune bashing can last between 20-30 minutes.
• Camel Riding : Experience the traditional mode of desert transport with a camel ride. You’ll be guided through the desert landscape.
• Entertainment : After the thrilling activities, most evening safaris include cultural entertainment such as belly dancing, Tanoura dancing, or live music at a desert camp.

Food and Dining

Many desert safaris include a traditional Arabian BBQ dinner at a desert camp. You’ll be served a variety of grilled meats, salads, hummus, and desserts, all while enjoying a peaceful evening under the stars. Vegetarian and vegan options are typically available, but it's always a good idea to notify the operator in advance if you have specific dietary restrictions.

Photography

Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning desert landscapes. Many operators offer professional photographers who can take pictures of you during activities like camel rides or dune bashing. You can usually purchase these photos at the end of your safari.

Tips for Booking a Desert Safari in Dubai

To ensure you get the best experience, keep these tips in mind when booking your desert safari:

Book in Advance

Desert safaris are popular, especially during peak tourist seasons (October to April). It’s always a good idea to book your safari in advance to secure your spot, especially if you have a specific date in mind.

Check the Reviews

Before finalizing your booking, always read reviews from past guests. This will give you an idea of the quality of the safari, the professionalism of the guides, and the overall experience.

Customize Your Experience

If you have specific interests, such as a private guide or gourmet dining options, check with the tour operator to customize your safari. Many companies offer the ability to tailor the safari to your liking.

Conclusion

Booking a desert safari in Dubai is an easy and straightforward process, whether you choose to book online, through your hotel, or directly with a tour operator. With various options available, from morning safaris to luxurious private experiences, there’s something for every traveler. By following this guide, you can ensure that your desert safari is the highlight of your Dubai trip, leaving you with memories of thrilling adventures and breathtaking desert landscapes.