Desert safaris in Dubai are one of the most popular tourist activities, offering a unique and thrilling experience to explore the vast, golden dunes and immerse oneself in the rich Arabian culture.
The adventure typically includes dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, henna painting, traditional Arabic meals, and mesmerizing live entertainment. With a multitude of desert safari packages available, the cost of these safaris varies depending on the type, duration, and level of luxury you desire.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive breakdown of the various desert safari options and their respective costs in Dubai.
Summary of Desert Safari Costs
- Basic Evening Desert Safari: AED 75-150 per person
- Luxury Evening Desert Safari: AED 250-600 per person
- Morning Desert Safari: AED 100-300 per person
- Overnight Desert Safari: AED 250-800 per person
- Private Desert Safari: AED 1,000-5,000 per vehicle
- Hot Air Balloon Safari: AED 1,000-1,500 per person
1. Basic Evening Desert Safari
A basic evening desert safari is the most common and affordable option for travelers who want to experience the thrill of dune bashing, camel riding, and the magic of Arabian nights.
This type of safari generally lasts around 5-6 hours and includes the following activities:
- 4×4 dune bashing
- Camel riding
- Sandboarding
- Sunset photography
- Henna painting
- Traditional Arabic buffet dinner
- Live entertainment, such as belly dancing and Tanoura shows
- Shisha smoking
The cost of a basic evening desert safari ranges from AED 75 to 150 per person, depending on the inclusions, quality of the campsite, and group size.
Some tour operators may offer discounts for large groups or during the off-peak season.
2. Luxury Evening Desert Safari
For those seeking a more upscale desert experience, luxury evening desert safaris provide a higher level of comfort and service.
These excursions often take place in a more exclusive setting, such as a private desert camp or within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.
The package includes all the activities of a basic evening safari, with some additional features:
- Premium campsite with better facilities
- Fine dining experience with a gourmet buffet or à la carte menu
- Falconry demonstration
- Private seating areas
- Optional extras, like quad biking or horseback riding
The cost of a luxury evening desert safari ranges from AED 250 to 600 per person, depending on the location, exclusivity, and the range of additional activities offered.
3. Morning Desert Safari
A morning desert safari is an excellent option for those who prefer to explore the desert during the cooler hours of the day.
This type of safari usually begins early in the morning and lasts for about 4 hours. The activities included in a morning desert safari are:
- 4×4 dune bashing
- Camel riding
- Sandboarding
- Quad biking (optional)
- Light refreshments
The cost of a morning desert safari ranges from AED 100 to 300 per person, depending on the inclusions and the choice of tour operator.
4. Overnight Desert Safari
An overnight desert safari provides a unique opportunity to spend the night under the stars in the heart of the desert.
This immersive experience typically includes all the activities of an evening desert safari, with the addition of an overnight stay in a traditional Bedouin-style tent or a more luxurious glamping setup.
The package also includes:
- Sleeping bags and blankets
- Breakfast the following morning
- Stargazing opportunities
- Campfire and traditional music (optional)
The cost of an overnight desert safari ranges from AED 250 to 800 per person, depending on the type of accommodation and level of luxury offered.
5. Private Desert Safari
A private desert safari is ideal for travelers who seek a more personalized and intimate experience, whether it’s for a special occasion, a family outing, or a romantic getaway.
With a private desert safari, you can tailor the itinerary to your preferences and enjoy the exclusive attention of your tour guide. Some potential inclusions in a private desert safari are:
- Customized itinerary and duration
- Private 4×4 vehicle for dune bashing
- Exclusive camel or horseback riding experiences
- Personalized menu and dining arrangements
- Special requests, like photography or celebrations
The cost of a private desert safari ranges from AED 1,000 to 5,000 per vehicle, depending on the level of customization and the range of services included.
6. Hot Air Balloon Safari
For those looking for a truly unforgettable desert adventure, a hot air balloon safari offers a bird’s-eye view of the mesmerizing dunes and the stunning landscape of the Dubai desert.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience usually includes:
- A 1-hour hot air balloon ride at sunrise
- Gourmet breakfast in the desert
- Falconry demonstration
- Optional add-ons, like a guided wildlife safari or dune bashing
The cost of a hot air balloon safari ranges from AED 1,000 to 1,500 per person, depending on the season and the choice of tour operator.
What We’ve Learnt
Dubai offers a wide variety of desert safari options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, a taste of traditional Arabian culture, or a luxurious desert escape, there’s a desert safari package that’s perfect for you.
Be sure to research and compare different tour operators and packages to find the best deal and ensure a memorable experience.
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