Dubai Tickets

Plan your Dubai desert safari experience

Organizing your visit

Overview

A Dubai desert safari mixes dune adventures, cultural experiences, and classic desert views. You can choose a sunrise start, an afternoon tour with camp entertainment, or an overnight stay. Each follows the same flow: dunes first, camp later. With different timings and activity levels, planning around pick-ups, weather, and peak evening crowds helps you get the most out of your time in the desert.

Travel logistics

All safaris include round-trip A/C transfers from most Dubai hotels and select meeting points; some extend to Sharjah and Ajman. Morning tours leave around 4:30am or 7–8am, evening tours at 2pm, and overnight safaris at 3pm. Roads are smooth, though peak-season traffic can slow pick-ups. Morning safaris are cooler and quicker; evenings are best for shows; overnights suit travellers wanting the full desert experience.

Handy tips

  • Tickets: Book evening and overnight safaris early. Peak season (November to March) sees higher demand and limited last-minute availability.
  • Best times: Mornings bring cooler weather while evening safaris usually offer golden-hour photos and include camp. The most comfortable months for desert safaris are November to March, when temperatures are mild across the day.
  • Rules: Wear light clothing and carry a jacket in winter. Dune bashing isn’t advised for pregnant travellers.
  • Pro tip: If your safari includes dune bashing, let your driver know if you prefer a gentle or more adventurous dune-bashing ride. Most drivers tailor the experience.
  • Respect: Avoid feeding wildlife and follow camp etiquette during performances.

Top Dubai desert safari activities that you need to try

SUV driving through sand dunes on a desert safari in Doha.
Person sandboarding down a desert dune during a 50 min quad biking, camel ride, and sandboarding tour.
Camel ride during Dubai desert safari at sunset.
Person riding a quad bike on desert sand during an evening safari adventure.
Dune buggy driving through sand dunes on a self-drive tour in Mleiha.
Falconer with falcon engaging guests at 57 Heritage Desert Safari in Dubai.
Tanoura dancers performing with illuminated skirts in Dubai.
Milky Way over desert sand dune with person and parked car.
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Dune bashing

A signature desert thrill, dune bashing takes you across rolling sand ridges in a 4x4, with sharp climbs, soft drops, and sweeping curves. Expert drivers navigate the shifting terrain, giving you a perfect mix of adrenaline and breathtaking desert panoramas.

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Sandboarding

Part adventure, part pure fun, sandboarding lets you glide down smooth dunes on a board. The soft, powdery sand cushions every descent, making it ideal for both first-timers and seasoned riders looking for playful, picture-perfect moments.

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Camel ride

Often called the “ship of the desert,” a camel ride gives you a calm, rhythmic journey across the dunes. From this elevated perch, you’ll get a slow, scenic look at the landscape. It's an experience that beautifully echoes old Bedouin travel traditions.

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Quad biking

Quad biking gives you a high-energy ride across open desert terrain. You’ll weave through low dunes and flat stretches, feeling the grit, speed, and freedom as you kick up soft trails of sand behind you.

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Dune buggy ride

A dune buggy experience puts you behind the wheel of a powerful off-road buggy built for steep climbs and fast-paced dune runs. With wide tyres and open frames, these vehicles deliver a thrilling, hands-on way to tackle the desert.

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Falcon encounter

Meet the UAE’s most iconic bird up close as handlers demonstrate traditional falconry techniques. The falcon’s speed, precision, and striking presence offer a captivating window into centuries-old Emirati heritage.

Desert camp shows

Evening camps glow with cultural performances. Tanoura spinning, fire shows, and live music. Lantern-lit seating and soft desert breezes create an atmospheric blend of entertainment and tradition under the stars.

Stargazing

Once the camp quiets and the dunes darken, the desert sky reveals brilliant constellations. Guides often point out major stars and celestial stories, creating a calm, reflective finale to your desert journey.

Plan your safari

Desert safari with dune bashing and sandboarding in Dubai at sunset.

Morning safaris (4 hours)

  • Start your day with a sunrise dune drive as the desert glows in soft, golden light.
  • Try sandboarding down smooth slopes for quick thrills and fun photos.
  • Enjoy a short camel ride for a traditional experience at a relaxed pace.

Recommended ticket: Morning Desert Safari

Grill chef preparing skewers at a desert safari barbecue station.

Evening safaris (4 to 7 hours)

  • Experience dune bashing and camel rides across glowing dunes as the sky shifts into sunset colours.
  • Settle into a traditional desert camp for a BBQ buffet dinner under the stars.
  • Enjoy live entertainment including tanoura, fire shows, and belly dancing.

Recommended ticket: Budget-Friendly Evening Desert Safari

Couple enjoying shisha in a Bedouin tent during an overnight desert safari.

Overnight safaris (16 to 17 hours)

  • Begin with dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides before relaxing at the camp.
  • Enjoy dinner and evening shows, then unwind in a cozy tent under the night sky.
  • Wake up to a serene desert sunrise and a fresh breakfast before heading back.

Recommended ticket: All-Inclusive Overnight Desert Safari

Book your Dubai desert safari tickets

  • Safari type: Morning safaris focus on activities like dune bashing and sandboarding, while evening options add live shows and BBQ dinners. Overnight tours offer the full desert experience with camping and breakfast.
  • Adventure level: Most cruises include dune bashing. If you're adventurous, you can include a dune buggy or quad bike ride for a more high-intensity thrill.
  • What’s included: Most safaris include round-trip A/C transfers, dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, camp activities, dinner, and shows. Premium tours include private setups, upgraded meals, henna tattoos, and even baby camel feeding.
  • Group size: Shared safaris are the most affordable option. Private transfers can be added as an upgrade on most tours, accommodating groups of up to 6 people for a more comfortable and personalised experience.
  • Camp style: Traditional camps offer classic entertainment and buffet dining, while premium and heritage camps provide upgraded seating, gourmet menus, cultural demos, and a more exclusive atmosphere.
  • Departure areas: Most tours offer hotel pickups across Dubai, with select options also covering Sharjah and Ajman. Pickup times vary depending on the safari type.

Private Group (up to 6 people) Red Dunes Desert Safari

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
6 hr.
Meals included

[Limited Time 30% Off] Red Dunes Evening Desert Safari & BBQ Dinner with Optional Quad Bike

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
6 hr.
Transfers included
Meals included

Budget-Friendly Evening Desert Safari & BBQ Dinner with Optional Quad Bike

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
6 hr.
Transfers included
Meals included

Combo (Save 9%): Burj Khalifa + Desert Safari + Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Transfers included
Hotel pickup
Meals included

Sunrise Desert Safari with Picnic Breakfast

4 hr.
Transfers included
Meals included

Morning Desert Safari with Dune Bashing & Sand Boarding

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
4 hr. - 4 hr. 35 min.
Guided tour
Transfers included
Hotel pickup

Limited Time Buy 1 Get 1 Free Deal: Premium Arabian Dunes Desert Safari with Bedouin Camp Experience

Book now, pay later
6 hr.
Transfers included
Meals included

Instagram-Favorite: Noble Camp Desert Safari with Gourmet Dinner & Live Entertainment

5 min. - 6 hr.
Transfers included
Meals included

4-Hour Ultimate Evening Adventure Safari Package with Optional Quad Biking & Brunch

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
4 hr.
Transfers included
Meals included

Ultra Luxury Desert Safari, Wildlife Tour & Fine Dining

Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
7 hr.
Transfers included
Meals included

Getting to your Dubai desert safari

Camels resting in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve during a safari tour.

Round-trip transfers

The simplest and most convenient way to reach the desert. All safaris include shared round-trip transfers in a 4x4 A/C vehicle from hotels and several meeting points in Dubai, with select tours also offering pickups from Sharjah and Ajman.

  • Time (from Downtown Dubai):
    • Al Awir Desert: 35–45 minutes
    • Lahbab Desert (Red Dunes): 45–60 minutes
    • Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve: 30–45 minutes
    • Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: 40–50 minutes
    • Noble Camp: 50–65 minutes
  • Cost: AED 110 to AED 1,848 depending on inclusions such as dune buggy upgrades, premium camp experiences, private transfers, and overnight stays.
  • Pros: Hassle-free travel, comfortable 4x4 A/C vehicles, door-to-door pickup, and direct access to your safari activities. Ideal for saving time and maximizing your desert experience.
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Feast like royalty on your Dubai desert safari

Meals vary depending on your chosen safari. Some offer premium 4-course or 6-course menus, but most include a generous buffet dinner served at the desert camp. Expect a mix of Arabic and international dishes, with plenty of options for vegetarians, families, and picky eaters. Here’s what you’ll typically find.

Hummus garnished with paprika and parsley, served with pita chips on a wooden board.

Appetizers

A delicious introduction to Arabic flavours with fresh mezze and warm breads served right at the camp.

  • What you can expect: Hummus, moutabal, fattoush, tabbouleh, lentil soup, olives, Arabic bread.
Chicken biryani served in a traditional Indian bowl with cilantro garnish.

Main courses

Hearty staples from across the region, perfect for refuelling after dune bashing and camel rides.

  • What you can expect: Chicken biryani, vegetable curry, daal, sautéed noodles, pasta, steamed rice.
Grilled skewers with vegetables and meat at a beach barbeque.

BBQ grill

A highlight of the night. Freshly grilled meats prepared live for that signature smoky flavour.

  • What you can expect: Chicken tikka, lamb kofta, grilled vegetables, malai paneer, marinated kebabs.
Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta on Athens Original Vegan Tour.

Vegetarian & vegan dishes

Buffets always include plant-based options that go beyond simple salads.

  • What you can expect: Vegetable and paneer curries, lentils, grilled veg, pulao, fresh salads, naan.
Roman spaghetti cacio e pepe with cheese and pepper in a white bowl.

Kids’ corner

Simple, familiar dishes that younger guests love after an active evening in the desert.

  • What you can expect: Pasta, nuggets, fries, mild curries, grilled chicken, pizza.
Cupcakes and pastries on a tiered stand at Pearl Afternoon Tea, Platos.

Desserts

A sweet finish with a mix of local favourites and international classics.

  • What you can expect: Luqaimat, umm ali, fruit salad, assorted pastries, chocolate mousse.

Grab a souvenir during your desert safari

Henna tattoo being applied at Bedouin Desert Camp by Atlanta Tourism.

Most evening and overnight safaris include a stop at a desert camp, where you’ll find small souvenir shops stocked with locally inspired gifts. It’s your chance to pick up something memorable after the dinner and shows, without needing to visit city markets.

Must buy: Arabic perfumes and oud, keychains, magnets, traditional scarves (shemagh), henna kits, sand art bottles, miniature camels, incense burners, and desert-themed trinkets.

Tips from locals

  • Go for the earliest pickup slot: Fewer cars on the dunes, cooler temperatures, and better lighting for photos before the camps get busy.
  • Choose Lahbab if you love big dunes: It’s known for the tallest red dunes near Dubai, perfect for dramatic sandboarding shots.
  • Bring a light jacket in winter: Desert nights drop fast from December to February, especially during overnight safaris.
  • Eat early at the camp: Buffet queues get long right after the shows begin. Locals grab food the moment dinner opens.
  • Skip heels and slides: Sand swallows open footwear; opt for sneakers or strap-on sandals for dune bashing stops.
  • Carry cash for upgrades: Quad bikes, dune buggies, and falcon photos are often operated by separate vendors who prefer cash.
  • Plan photos for golden hour: The best light is 20–30 minutes before sunset; the dunes glow deep red in Lahbab and soft gold in Al Awir.
  • Don’t rush the camel ride line: Later in the evening, queues shrink as dinner and shows start, ideal for a quieter experience.
  • Be mindful near animals: Falcon handlers appreciate slow movements; avoid approaching camels from behind.
  • Winter = peak season: November to March sees heavier crowds; book evening or overnight safaris early to secure preferred dates.

Frequently asked questions about planning your Dubai desert safari experience

What should I wear on a Dubai desert safari experience?

Light, breathable clothing is best for the desert. Evenings can get cooler, so carrying a light jacket is recommended.

How long does a typical Dubai desert safari experience last?

Most safaris last 5–7 hours, depending on the inclusions and activities you choose.

Is the desert safari suitable for children and older guests?

Yes, most safaris are family-friendly. Guests can also skip adventure activities like dune bashing if needed.

What time is best for a desert safari in Dubai?

Evening safaris are the most popular for sunsets and shows, while morning safaris offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Are vegetarian or special-diet meals available on desert safaris?

Most operators offer vegetarian dishes and can accommodate dietary restrictions if informed in advance.

Can I take photos with falcons or camels during the safari?

Yes, many camps offer photo opportunities with camels, falcons, and traditional setups for memorable pictures.

Do desert safaris operate during summer in Dubai?

Yes, safaris run year-round. Summer trips often include additional cooling measures like shaded seating and chilled refreshments.

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