A desert safari in Dubai is one of the most unforgettable experiences visitors can have. It blends adventure, culture, and relaxation into a single thrilling package. But if you’re new to the idea, you may be wondering: what does the desert safari include?
From exhilarating dune rides to traditional Arabian hospitality in a desert safari oasis, there’s a lot to look forward to. Whether you're planning a morning desert safari for a quick adrenaline rush or an immersive evening desert safari, most packages offer a variety of exciting activities and services. Let’s break down what you can typically expect in a Dubai desert safari experience.
1. Pick-Up and Drop-Off Service
Most desert safari packages start with comfortable hotel or location pick-up in an air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle, such as a Toyota Land Cruiser or Nissan Patrol. This ensures a smooth ride to and from the desert, typically located 30–45 minutes outside the city.
This service is included in both morning desert safari and evening desert safari packages for convenience and safety.
2. Dune Bashing
Once you arrive in the desert, your adventure begins with dune bashing—an off-road ride over steep sand dunes that will leave your heart racing. Professional drivers maneuver through the desert terrain in powerful vehicles, giving you a taste of desert rally driving.
This is a highlight for thrill-seekers and is a must-do in every safari experience.
3. Camel Riding
A classic desert tradition, camel riding allows you to experience what travel felt like centuries ago. You’ll enjoy a short but serene ride across the dunes, often with scenic photo opportunities.
This activity is often available in both morning and evening desert safaris, and it's a hit with families and first-time visitors.
4. Sandboarding and Quad Biking
If you love adventure, sandboarding is included in most packages. You’ll strap a board to your feet and surf down the slopes of golden sand dunes. For an additional fee, many safaris also offer quad biking, where you can navigate the dunes on a four-wheeled bike.
These are among the top 10 activities desert safari Dubai offers to adventure lovers.
5. Photography and Sunset Views
The desert offers stunning panoramic views, especially at sunrise or sunset. Most tours include designated photo stops on the dunes. The evening desert safari is perfect for capturing the magical sunset that paints the dunes in golden and red hues.
Many tours also offer traditional dress photography where guests can wear Arabic attire for memorable photos.
6. Welcome at the Desert Camp
After the outdoor adventures, you’ll be welcomed into a traditional desert safari oasis or Bedouin-style camp. Here, you’re greeted with Arabian coffee (Gahwa), fresh dates, and refreshments as you relax and enjoy the serene environment.
This cultural welcome sets the stage for an authentic and immersive evening.
7. Live Entertainment Shows
One of the biggest attractions in an evening desert safari is the array of live performances. These often include:
Belly Dancing
Tanoura (Whirling Dervish) Dance
Fire Show
These performances reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region and provide great entertainment as night falls over the desert.
8. Arabic BBQ Buffet Dinner
A mouth-watering barbecue buffet is served at the desert camp, often featuring a range of grilled meats, rice dishes, fresh salads, and Arabic sweets. Vegetarian options are usually available as well.
Dining under the stars in the tranquil setting of a desert safari oasis adds a magical touch to the experience.
9. Henna Painting & Shisha Smoking
Guests can get beautiful henna tattoos, especially popular with women and children. You can also try shisha smoking, a traditional Middle Eastern waterpipe available in various flavors.
These activities are included in most evening safari packages and contribute to the cultural richness of the night.
10. Stargazing & Peaceful Moments
After the excitement of the day, many safaris end with a peaceful moment under the stars. The desert sky is often clear, offering a perfect opportunity to stargaze away from city lights.
This moment of serenity is a fitting end to the day's adventure.
Top 10 Activities Desert Safari Dubai
To summarize, here are the top 10 activities desert safari Dubai visitors most enjoy:
Dune Bashing
Camel Riding
Sandboarding
Quad Biking
Sunset Photography
Henna Painting
Live Entertainment (Belly Dance, Fire Show, Tanoura)
Arabic BBQ Dinner
Shisha Smoking
Stargazing in a desert safari oasis
Final Thoughts
So, what does the desert safari include? From high-octane adventure to authentic Arabian hospitality, a desert safari offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're on a quick morning desert safari or a full evening desert safari complete with dinner and live shows, the memories you make in the Arabian dunes will stay with you forever.
A visit to a desert safari oasis, participation in cultural activities, and a taste of traditional cuisine truly complete the experience. So get ready to ride the dunes, dine under the stars, and immerse yourself in the magic of the desert.
