Dubai is one of the most family-friendly travel destinations in the world, and its desert safari tours are no exception. A Dubai desert safari offers a thrilling adventure with activities that cater to all ages, from young children to adults. Whether you're seeking excitement, cultural experiences, or simply some relaxation in the stunning desert landscape, there’s something for every member of the family.
Here’s a guide to the best family-friendly activities that you can enjoy when booking a Dubai safari tour.
1. Camel Riding: A Classic Desert Experience
One of the most iconic experiences in a Desert Safari Dubai Booking is camel riding, and it’s an activity that’s perfect for families with children. Camels, often referred to as the “ships of the desert,” are calm animals and provide a gentle ride across the golden sand dunes.
Camel rides are usually very safe for kids, and many safari tours offer special assistance to help children mount and dismount the camel. The pace of the ride is relaxed, giving you and your family a chance to enjoy the serenity of the desert.
Why it's great for families:
Suitable for all ages, including young children.
A unique and memorable experience for the entire family.
Camel rides are often guided by experienced staff who ensure safety.
2. Sandboarding: Thrills on the Dunes
For families with older kids or teenagers, sandboarding can be a fantastic and exciting activity to try during your desert safari. Sandboarding is similar to snowboarding, but instead of snow, you'll be gliding down the dunes of the desert on a specially designed board.
This activity can be as thrilling as you want it to be, and it’s a great way for the family to engage in some friendly competition. If you're new to the sport, you can start with smaller dunes, but for the more adventurous, the larger dunes offer a higher level of excitement.
Why it's great for families:
Perfect for kids and teenagers who enjoy sports and adventure.
A great bonding activity for parents and kids.
Easy to learn and fun for all skill levels.
3. Dune Bashing: An Adrenaline-Fueled Adventure
For families with older children (typically above the age of 4), dune bashing is one of the most thrilling activities you can do on a desert safari. Dune bashing involves riding in a 4x4 vehicle driven by a skilled driver, racing up and down the steep dunes. The adrenaline rush is sure to thrill both kids and adults.
Though exciting, it’s essential to check with the tour provider about age restrictions, as younger children might find the experience a bit too bumpy. Always ensure that your children are securely fastened with appropriate seat belts and safety gear.
Why it's great for families:
Ideal for families with older children or teenagers seeking adventure.
Exciting and memorable way to experience the desert.
Offers the thrill of riding over steep dunes and tackling desert terrain.
4. Falconry Experience: A Glimpse into Traditional Desert Life
Many desert safari tours in Dubai offer a traditional falconry experience, where you and your family can learn about the ancient art of hunting with falcons. This activity offers both an educational and entertaining opportunity for kids to learn about one of the UAE's most iconic traditions.
You’ll have the chance to watch trained falcons perform tricks and see how these majestic birds are trained to hunt in the wild. It’s a fascinating experience for children who are interested in animals and nature.
Why it's great for families:
Educational and interactive, great for young learners.
A fun way to learn about desert life and heritage.
Opportunity for kids to see these beautiful birds up close.
5. Desert Sunset Photography: Capture Beautiful Memories
The desert at sunset is nothing short of magical, and a desert safari tour often includes the opportunity to capture beautiful photographs of the golden sands under the setting sun. It’s a peaceful and relaxing part of the tour where families can take in the beauty of the desert landscape and create lasting memories.
If you have a camera or a smartphone, this is a great opportunity to snap some family photos, and children will love the chance to see the sun dip below the horizon.
Why it's great for families:
Great for family photo opportunities.
A calm, relaxing part of the safari.
A chance to enjoy the breathtaking desert scenery.
6. Traditional Bedouin Camp Experience: A Cultural Journey
A key part of most desert safari tours is the visit to a traditional Bedouin camp. Here, families can experience the rich culture and traditions of the desert, offering a more laid-back and educational experience. Kids will enjoy exploring the camp, trying on traditional clothes, and engaging in various cultural activities.
These camps usually include:
Henna painting: A fun activity for kids where they can get temporary, decorative tattoos.
Arabian coffee and dates: A chance to taste traditional desert treats.
Shisha smoking: While this is for adults, the rest of the family can relax and watch the smoke in the desert night sky.
Cultural performances: Watch live shows such as belly dancing, Tanoura (a traditional spinning dance), and even fire shows.
Why it's great for families:
Cultural activities provide a learning experience for children.
Plenty of entertainment for all ages, including traditional performances.
Comfortable setting to relax after more energetic activities like dune bashing or sandboarding.
7. BBQ Dinner Under the Stars: A Family Feast
No desert safari would be complete without the signature BBQ dinner, which is usually served in a beautiful desert setting under the stars. This part of the safari allows you to relax and enjoy a delicious meal with your family while taking in the desert’s peaceful ambiance.
Most desert safari dinners offer a range of delicious food options, including grilled meats, traditional Arabic dishes, salads, and desserts. Some camps even offer live entertainment during the meal, making the experience more immersive and enjoyable.
Why it's great for families:
Relaxing and delicious dinner for the whole family.
A chance to unwind after an exciting day of activities.
Entertainment such as belly dancing and music adds to the experience.
8. Star Gazing: A Nighttime Desert Adventure
After the BBQ dinner, the clear desert sky provides an excellent opportunity for stargazing. Many safari tours include a stargazing session, where families can look up at the stars and constellations in the vast desert sky. This peaceful activity is perfect for winding down after a day of adventure.
Some tours even provide telescopes to help you get a closer look at distant stars and planets, making it an educational experience for kids interested in space and astronomy.
Why it's great for families:
A peaceful and awe-inspiring way to end the day.
Perfect for kids with an interest in space and science.
A calming and relaxing activity for families to enjoy together.
9. Quad Biking: For Older Kids and Teens
For families with older children (usually over the age of 16), quad biking can add another level of excitement to the desert safari. This activity allows you to ride an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) through the sand dunes, providing a thrilling off-road adventure.
Safety gear, including helmets and protective equipment, is provided, and the quad bikes are easy to navigate. It's an excellent way for teens to enjoy the desert in an active, hands-on way.
Why it's great for families:
Fun and exciting for older kids and teens.
Provides a hands-on desert adventure.
Excellent for families seeking a mix of adventure and fun.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Dubai Desert Safari
Booking a family-friendly desert safari in Dubai is an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether your family enjoys thrills like dune bashing and sandboarding, cultural experiences like falconry and Bedouin camp visits, or simply relaxing under the stars with a delicious meal, Dubai’s desert safari tours offer something for everyone.
By selecting activities that are suitable for all ages, you can ensure that every member of your family enjoys the magic of the desert in a safe and exciting way.
