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Desert Safari An Unforgettable Adventure in the Dubai Desert

My Experience on a Desert Safari

Having lived in Dubai for a few years, the Desert Safari is an experience I’ve had several times, and it never gets old. My first desert safari was a bit of a surprise in terms of how thrilling and immersive it was. I booked a standard package, which included dune bashing, camel riding, and a BBQ dinner. The adrenaline rush from dune bashing was unlike anything I had experienced before the feeling of racing over the rolling dunes at high speeds was both exhilarating and slightly terrifying. The camel ride afterwards was a much needed contrast, allowing me to appreciate the serenity of the desert in its full beauty.

One of my most memorable experiences was attending the live performances. The belly dancing and Tanoura dance shows added an authentic cultural touch, and I found the atmosphere magical, especially under the stars. If you’re planning to do this, I recommend booking a luxury package for a more personalized and comfortable experience. The smaller groups make everything more relaxed, and the service is top notch. Whether you’re in it for the adventure or the cultural immersion, the Desert Safari is a must do.

History

  • The Desert Safari has become one of the most popular activities for tourists visiting Dubai, showcasing the vast Arabian desert landscape. The tradition of desert exploration in the UAE dates back centuries, but modern desert safaris began gaining popularity in the late 20th century when off road vehicles made it easier to navigate the dunes.

  • Today, the safari offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and luxury, with many tour operators providing a variety of experiences from basic to premium packages.

Unique Facts

  • Dune Bashing
    Dune bashing, one of the main attractions of the safari, involves driving a 4×4 vehicle up and down the sand dunes. It is both an adrenaline pumping and exhilarating activity that simulates an off-road experience like no other.

  • Camel Riding
    Riding camels, known as the ships of the desert, is a unique way to experience the traditional lifestyle of the Bedouins, who relied on camels for centuries as they traversed the desert.

  • Cultural Performances
    Many safaris include live performances like belly dancing, Tanoura dancing, and folk music, which offer a window into the rich cultural heritage of the UAE.

  • Traditional BBQ
    After the excitement of the dune bashing and other activities, the safari ends with a traditional BBQ dinner under the stars. The feast often includes grilled meats, salads, and traditional desserts like Baklava and Knafeh.

Location

  • Various desert locations just outside Dubai (the specific location depends on the tour operator).

 

Timings

  • Tours typically start at 3 PM and end at 9 PM, giving you a perfect opportunity to witness both the beautiful desert sunset and the starry skies at night.

 

Best Time to Visit

  • November to March:
    The best time to visit for a desert safari is between November and March, when the temperatures are cooler. The desert heat during the summer months can be unbearable, so the winter months offer a more comfortable climate.

 

Cost of the Safari

  • AED 150 to AED 500
    The cost of a Desert Safari varies depending on the package you choose:
    • Standard packages start at around AED 150.
    • Luxury packages can go up to AED 500 or more, depending on the additional services such as private vehicles, smaller groups, and upgraded dinner experiences.

 

Facilities Available

  • Dune Bashing
    The highlight of most desert safaris, dune bashing involves riding in a 4×4 vehicle that drives at high speeds across the sand dunes.

  • Camel Riding
    Experience the desert from the back of a camel and get a feel for traditional Bedouin life.

  • Sandboarding
    Similar to snowboarding, but on sand dunes, sandboarding is an exciting way to glide down the desert slopes.

  • Quad Biking
    Many desert safaris offer quad biking, an adventurous way to navigate the dunes independently.

  • Falconry
    Experience falconry, a traditional Bedouin sport where trained falcons soar across the desert sky, showcasing their majestic beauty.

  • Henna Painting
    Henna is often offered at desert camps, allowing you to get beautiful temporary tattoos with intricate designs.

  • Traditional BBQ Dinner
    A BBQ dinner is typically served in the desert camp, offering a selection of meats, salads, and local specialties, including Arabic coffee and dates.

  • Live Performances
    Enjoy belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and sometimes even fire shows, adding a touch of excitement and culture to your desert experience.

Additional Insights

What to Do
  • Book a Premium Package for a Luxury Experience
    If you want a more personalized experience, opt for a luxury package. These packages often include smaller groups, exclusive vehicles, and private seating areas for the shows and dinner.

  • Wear Comfortable Footwear
    Since you’ll be walking through the desert and participating in activities like sandboarding and camel riding, it’s important to wear comfortable shoes. Sand can be quite hot, so closed toe shoes are recommended.

  • Capture the Sunset
    One of the most magical moments during the safari is the desert sunset. Be sure to take photos of the changing colors in the sky as the sun sets over the dunes.

What Not to Do
  • Don’t Visit During Summer
    The desert heat during the summer months can be overwhelming, so it’s best to avoid June to September. The cooler months from November to March provide a much more enjoyable experience.

  • Don’t Forget to Bring a Jacket
    While it’s warm during the day, the desert can get quite chilly at night, so make sure to bring a light jacket for the evening.

  • Don’t Overload with Extra Bags
    Since desert safaris often involve moving between different activities, it’s best to travel light. Large bags or excessive items may be cumbersome during activities like dune bashing or camel riding.

Personal Tips

  • Book in Advance
    Desert safaris can get quite busy, especially during the peak tourist season. I recommend booking your tour in advance to secure the best time slot and avoid disappointment.

  • Arrive with an Adventurous Spirit
    The Desert Safari is all about adventure, so embrace the thrill of dune bashing and don’t hesitate to try out activities like sand boarding or quad biking. If you’re a little nervous, the guides are experienced and make sure you’re safe throughout the experience.

The Desert Safari is an experience that truly embodies the essence of Dubai thrilling, luxurious, and culturally rich. Whether you’re seeking adventure with dune bashing and sandboarding, relaxing on a camel ride, or enjoying a traditional BBQ dinner under the stars, the safari offers something for everyone. If you’re a Dubai visitor or a resident, it’s one of those must do experiences that you’ll never forget. The desert landscape is both serene and awe inspiring, and the cultural performances offer a unique insight into the region’s heritage. Whether you choose the standard or luxury package, a desert safari will always be an unforgettable experience that captures the magic of the UAE.