Dubai, renowned for its opulent lifestyle and towering skyscrapers, also offers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning desert landscape through a variety of desert safari packages. When you start researching desert safari dubai price it’s essential to understand the components that influence the cost and the activities included in each package. Whether you’re after a thrilling adventure or a peaceful, cultural experience, knowing what’s included in the price will help you choose the perfect safari for your desert excursion.
1. Types of Desert Safaris
The desert safari experience in Dubai is generally available in various formats, each tailored to different preferences and budgets. Here are the most common types:
Morning Desert Safari: Ideal for those short on time, this safari usually includes dune bashing and a few adventure sports, but it’s more focused on thrill-seekers who want to experience the desert without the afternoon heat.
Evening Desert Safari: The most popular option, the evening safari, offers a comprehensive package including dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and cultural entertainment, followed by a BBQ dinner under the stars.
Overnight Desert Safari: For a more immersive experience, the overnight safari lets you camp in the desert. You’ll enjoy all the activities of the evening safari, with the added opportunity to stargaze and sleep in traditional Bedouin-style tents.
Each of these options comes with varying price tags, largely dependent on the duration, inclusions, and the type of vehicle or accommodations offered.
2. Dune Bashing
A major highlight of most desert safari packages is dune bashing. This exhilarating activity involves riding in a 4x4 vehicle driven by an expert across the desert dunes. Prices typically include a 20-30 minute dune bashing session in SUVs, usually Toyota Land Cruisers or similar vehicles that are equipped for navigating the soft, shifting sand. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, some packages even offer the option of a more intense dune-bashing experience at an additional cost. The prices for desert safaris that include dune bashing usually start at around AED 150 to AED 250 per person, depending on the provider and additional activities.
3. Camel Riding
Camel rides are an integral part of any desert safari experience. As camels are historically linked with Bedouin culture and desert life, most safari packages include a short camel ride. While some packages offer only a brief ride for photo opportunities, others may offer more extended camel treks, giving you a chance to explore the desert at a more relaxed pace. The price typically includes this activity, but if you’re opting for a luxury or private desert safari, a longer camel ride might come at an additional cost.
4. Sandboarding and Quad Biking
For adventure enthusiasts, desert safaris also include activities like sandboarding and quad biking. Sandboarding, similar to snowboarding, involves sliding down the desert dunes on a specially designed board. It’s generally included in most packages and doesn’t significantly impact the overall desert safari Dubai price.
Quad biking, however, is often an optional extra. For those looking to experience off-roading through the dunes on a quad bike, expect to pay an additional AED 100 to AED 300, depending on the time and type of vehicle.
5. Cultural Experiences and Entertainment
A key part of the evening and overnight desert safaris is the cultural entertainment offered. Many packages include traditional Tanoura dance performances, a captivating Sufi-inspired spinning dance, and belly dancing shows. These performances, along with music, add an authentic cultural element to your desert experience. While these activities are included in the package price for most evening safaris, premium packages may offer exclusive or more elaborate performances.
In addition to entertainment, guests can experience henna painting, which is a popular desert safari activity. Henna artists create beautiful temporary tattoos using natural dye, which is often included in the package at no extra cost.
6. Dining and Beverages
One of the best aspects of an evening or overnight desert safari is the BBQ dinner. Most packages include a lavish spread of grilled meats, salads, and traditional Emirati cuisine, catering to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian guests. Some luxury packages might offer more exclusive dining experiences, such as private dining setups in the dunes or gourmet meals, which will increase the overall cost.
Additionally, most desert safaris provide unlimited water and soft drinks as part of the package. Alcoholic beverages, however, are typically not included and are available at an extra charge. Be sure to check with your provider if you wish to include alcohol in your experience.
7. Transportation
Most desert safari packages include pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or designated meeting points within Dubai. These transfers are usually done in air-conditioned 4x4 vehicles and are factored into the overall price of the package. However, private safaris or those with upgraded transport options like luxury SUVs may come with higher costs.
8. Optional Upgrades and Private Tours
For those looking for a more personalized experience, many tour operators offer private desert safaris. These packages give you the luxury of a more intimate setting, with private vehicles, exclusive campsites, and tailored activities. While standard safari packages are typically more affordable, ranging from AED 150 to AED 350 per person, private safaris can range from AED 500 to AED 1,000 or more per person, depending on the level of exclusivity and customizations you select.
Conclusion
The desert safari Dubai price you pay will depend on the activities included, the type of experience you’re seeking, and any optional add-ons or upgrades. From the basic thrill of dune bashing to the lavishness of a private overnight safari, there’s an option for every type of traveler. By understanding the breakdown of what's included, you can ensure your desert adventure fits both your budget and expectations.
