Dubai, a city known for its modern skyline and luxurious lifestyle, is also famous for its breathtaking desert landscapes. One of the top experiences that travelers seek when visiting Dubai is the desert safari—an adventure that takes you through golden dunes, offering a blend of thrill, culture, and relaxation. However, with numerous tour operators offering desert safari experiences, finding the best place to book desert safari Dubai can be overwhelming. This guide will help you choose the perfect provider and ensure you have an unforgettable experience.
Why You Should Book a Desert Safari in Dubai
A desert safari in Dubai is much more than just a ride through the sand dunes. It is a combination of adventure, culture, and hospitality. Here’s why you should book one:
1. Thrilling Adventure Activities
Dubai’s desert safaris include a range of thrilling activities, such as:
- Dune Bashing: Experience the excitement of driving up and down steep sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle.
- Sandboarding: Similar to snowboarding, but on sand! Glide down the dunes for a unique adrenaline rush.
- Quad Biking & Dune Buggy Rides: If you prefer to take control, rent a quad bike or dune buggy to explore the desert on your own.
2. Cultural Experiences
A desert safari is not just about adventure; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Arabian culture. Some cultural activities include:
- Camel Riding: Experience the traditional mode of desert transport.
- Henna Painting: Get beautiful henna designs on your hands.
- Live Entertainment: Watch captivating performances like belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and fire shows.
3. Delicious Arabian Cuisine
Most desert safaris include a lavish BBQ buffet dinner, featuring a variety of Middle Eastern dishes, from grilled meats to traditional sweets.
4. Stunning Sunset Views
The desert is one of the best places to watch the sun setting over the dunes. The golden hues create a magical experience, perfect for photography.
Types of Desert Safari in Dubai
Before you book your desert safari, it’s important to know the different types available.
1. Morning Desert Safari
If you love adventure and want to experience the desert without the evening entertainment, the morning desert safari is perfect. It usually includes:
- Dune bashing
- Camel riding
- Sandboarding
- Quad biking (optional)
2. Evening Desert Safari
This is the most popular option as it includes adventure activities, cultural experiences, entertainment, and dinner. The usual itinerary includes:
- Dune bashing
- Sandboarding
- Camel riding
- Henna painting
- Live performances (belly dance, fire show, Tanoura dance)
- BBQ buffet dinner
3. Overnight Desert Safari
For those who want a more immersive experience, the overnight desert safari is ideal. It includes all the activities of an evening safari plus:
- Overnight stay in a desert camp
- Stargazing
- Early morning sunrise views
4. Private Desert Safari
If you prefer a more personalized experience, you can book a private desert safari with a dedicated vehicle and customized activities.
5. Luxury Desert Safari
For a more upscale experience, luxury desert safaris offer premium services, such as:
- Private 4×4 vehicles
- Gourmet dining
- VIP seating at the camp
- Falconry displays
Best Place to Book Desert Safari Dubai
Now that you know the types of desert safaris available, let’s explore the best places to book desert safari Dubai.
1. Platinum Heritage
Best for: Luxury and eco-friendly desert safari
Why choose them?
- Uses vintage Land Rovers instead of modern 4x4s
- Focus on eco-friendly experiences
- Includes a visit to a royal desert retreat
- Offers gourmet dining and falconry displays
2. Arabian Adventures
Best for: Reliable and high-quality service
Why choose them?
- Operated by Emirates Group, ensuring high standards
- Offers morning, evening, and overnight safaris
- Excellent customer reviews and professional guides
3. OceanAir Travels
Best for: Budget-friendly and well-rated experiences
Why choose them?
- Affordable rates with great inclusions
- Highly rated on TripAdvisor and Google
- Includes dune bashing, camel rides, and BBQ dinner
4. Desert Safari Dubai (dubaidesertsafari.com)
Best for: Variety of packages
Why choose them?
- Offers multiple safari options (standard, premium, and private)
- Competitive pricing
- Convenient booking process
5. Rayna Tours
Best for: Customizable experiences
Why choose them?
- Wide range of safari packages
- Customizable options for private and group tours
- Reliable customer service
6. Viator and GetYourGuide
Best for: Booking through a trusted platform
Why choose them?
- Aggregates various tour operators
- Customer reviews help in decision-making
- Easy cancellation policies
How to Choose the Best Desert Safari Tour
With so many options available, here are a few tips to help you choose the best desert safari in Dubai:
1. Consider Your Budget
Desert safari prices range from AED 100 ($27) to AED 1,500+ ($400) depending on the package. Luxury safaris cost more but offer premium experiences.
2. Check Customer Reviews
Websites like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Trustpilot can give you insights into other travelers’ experiences.
3. Look at the Inclusions
Make sure the tour includes everything you want, such as dune bashing, camel riding, and dinner.
4. Choose a Licensed Tour Operator
Book with Dubai Tourism-approved companies to ensure safety and quality.
5. Compare Packages
Some companies offer similar services at different price points, so comparing packages can help you get the best deal.
Final Thoughts
A desert safari in Dubai is a must-do experience that offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly tour, a private experience, or a luxury getaway, there are plenty of options available.
If you’re wondering about the best place to book desert safari Dubai, consider Platinum Heritage for luxury, OceanAir Travels for affordability, and Arabian Adventures for reliability. No matter which provider you choose, a desert safari will surely be a highlight of your Dubai trip!
