Dubai Desert Safaris – Experience Arabian Magic in the Dunes

Prices vary by experience type:

• Heritage Desert Safari: AED 450-550 per person
• Bedouin Culture Safari: AED 500-600 per person
• Camel Desert Safari: AED 480-580 per person
• Royal Falconry & Nature Safari: AED 1,200-1,500 per person
• Hero Balloon Flights Dubai: AED 1,400-1,800 per person
• Dubai Balloon at Atlantis: AED 150-200 per person

What’s included: Most safaris include round-trip transport, all activities, professional guiding, meals/refreshments, and cultural experiences as described.

Group discounts: Available for 6+ people. Contact us for rates.

Private experiences: All safaris can be arranged privately at premium rates.

Children: Typically 50-75% of adult rates (age policies vary by experience).

Best overall family safari: Heritage Desert Safari

Why it’s perfect for families:

• Suitable for all ages (children 4+)
• Educational content keeps kids engaged
• Conservation focus teaches important values
• Safe, professional guides trained with children
• Activities varied enough to maintain interest
• Comfortable facilities and clean restrooms
• Delicious food appealing to children
• Participatory drumming and performances kids love

Also excellent: Bedouin Culture Safari – Particularly good for children 6+ who are curious about history and culture. The storytelling, animal encounters (Saluki dog, falcon, camels), and hands-on activities make learning fun.

For younger children (4-6): Heritage Desert Safari is gentler with shorter duration and less intense activities.

For older children/teens: Any safari works, but consider adding Royal Falconry for those passionate about animals or Hero Balloon Flights for adventure seekers.

Family tips:

• Book private safari for flexibility with young children
• Morning safaris (Bedouin Culture) avoid late nights
• Bring familiar snacks for picky eaters
• Inform guides of any special needs
• Children’s menus available on request

Dubai desert safaris operate year-round, but timing affects comfort:

Peak Season (November-April) – Most Comfortable

Weather: Perfect! Temperatures 20-30°C, cool evenings, minimal humidity
Best for: Everyone, especially those sensitive to heat
Considerations: Higher prices, advance booking essential, more tourists

Hot Season (May-October) – Lower Prices

Weather: Very hot (35-45°C+), high humidity (especially July-September)
Best for: Budget travelers, those who handle heat well
Advantages: 20-40% lower prices, fewer crowds, stunning summer sunsets
Considerations: Morning safaris more comfortable, bring extra water, sunset timing later

Best months overall: November, December, January, February, March – comfortable temperatures, perfect conditions

Ramadan considerations: Desert safaris operate during Ramadan with modified timings (no daytime eating/drinking). Iftar (sunset meal) safaris offer unique cultural experiences during this holy month.

Our recommendation: November-March for optimal comfort, but any time works if you’re prepared for the heat. Morning safaris (Bedouin Culture, Royal Falconry) are comfortable year-round.

Duration by safari type:

Evening Safaris (Heritage, Camel):

• Pickup: 3:00-3:30 PM
• Return: 9:00-9:30 PM
• Total duration: Approximately 6 hours

Morning Safaris (Bedouin Culture, Royal Falconry):

• Pickup: 7:00-8:00 AM
• Return: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
• Total duration: Approximately 4-5 hours

Hot Air Balloon Experiences:

• Pickup: 4:00-4:30 AM (pre-dawn)
• Return: 8:00-9:00 AM
• Total duration: Approximately 4-5 hours
• Flight time: About 1 hour

Atlantis Tethered Balloon:

• Experience duration: 10-15 minutes in air
• Total time: 30-45 minutes including queuing

Pickup & drop-off: All safaris include complimentary hotel/residence pickup and drop-off within Dubai. Exact times confirmed 24 hours before your experience.

Recommended clothing:

General guidelines:

• Loose, comfortable clothing – Linen, cotton, breathable fabrics
• Modest dress – Respecting local culture (shoulders and knees covered)
• Closed-toe shoes – Sneakers or light hiking shoes (sand gets everywhere)
• Light layers – Desert cools significantly after sunset

For evening safaris:

• Light long pants or loose skirts
• Long-sleeve shirt or light cardigan
• Closed shoes
• Warm layer for winter months (November-February)

For morning safaris:

• Comfortable pants/shorts (respectful length)
• T-shirt or light shirt
• Closed shoes
• Hat for sun protection

For balloon flights:

• Layers (early morning is cold, then warms up)
• Sturdy shoes
• Warm jacket (it’s chilly at altitude)

What NOT to wear:

• Revealing clothing (tank tops, short shorts, mini skirts)
• Flip-flops or sandals (except Atlantis balloon)
• White clothing (sand is unforgiving!)
• Expensive jewelry
• High heels

Accessories to bring:

• Sunglasses and hat
• Sunscreen (even in winter)
• Camera/smartphone
• Small backpack for personal items

Cultural note: While Dubai is cosmopolitan, desert experiences involve traditional settings. Modest, respectful dress is appreciated and ensures comfort.

Yes, our Dubai desert safaris maintain the highest safety standards.

Vehicle safety:

• Modern 4×4 vehicles regularly maintained
• Professional drivers with years of desert experience
• Seatbelts mandatory
• Speed limits observed
• Two-way radios for communication
• Comprehensive insurance coverage

Activity safety:

Camel riding: Gentle, well-trained camels; guides assist mounting/dismounting; slow-paced treks

Falconry: Professional falconers with years of experience; protective gloves provided; birds fully trained

Hot air ballooning:

• World-leading operator with 4 consecutive awards
• Experienced licensed pilots
• Comprehensive safety protocols
• Weather monitoring
• Full insurance coverage

Conservation reserve:

• Designated routes avoiding sensitive areas
• No dangerous wildlife encounters
• Professional guides trained in first aid
• Emergency protocols in place
• Mobile communication throughout

Health & hygiene:

• Clean, well-maintained facilities
• Hygienic food preparation (all permits/certifications)
• Dietary requirements accommodated
• First aid kits in all vehicles
• Guides trained in basic medical response

Who should take precautions:

• Pregnant women (consult on suitability)
• Those with back/neck problems (bumpy 4×4 rides)
• Heart conditions (consult doctor before balloon flights)
• Very young children (minimum ages apply to some activities)

Our safety record: Thousands of guests served annually with excellent safety record. Your wellbeing is our absolute priority.

Absolutely! All our safaris are available as private experiences.

Benefits of private safaris:

Flexibility:

• Customized pickup times
• Adjusted pace (spend more time at favorite activities)
• Extended or shortened duration
• Skip activities that don’t interest you
• Photography stops whenever you want

Privacy & exclusivity:

• Your group only (no sharing with strangers)
• More personal attention from guides
• Comfortable asking questions
• Perfect for special occasions
• Ideal for families with young children

Customization:

• Tailored cultural content
• Specific dietary requests
• Language preferences
• Activity intensity adjusted to your group
• Special celebrations incorporated

Perfect for:

• Honeymoons and romantic celebrations
• Family gatherings
• Corporate groups
• Photographers wanting specific timing
• Anyone preferring exclusivity

Private safari pricing:

Depends on group size and chosen experience:

• Couples (2 people): 150-200% of standard per-person rate
• Small groups (3-5): 130-150% of standard rate
• Larger groups (6+): Often comparable to standard rates

How to book: Contact us directly to discuss your requirements. We’ll create a customized private safari matching your vision and budget

Standard inclusions across most safaris:

Transportation:

• Round-trip pickup and drop-off (Dubai hotels/residences)
• Comfortable air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles
• Professional driver-guides

Activities:

• All activities as described in specific safari
• Professional guiding and instruction
• Equipment (gloves for falconry, safety gear, etc.)
• Conservation reserve entry fees

Food & Beverages:

• Meals as specified (breakfast, dinner)
• Soft drinks, water, juices
• Arabic coffee and dates
• Tea/coffee throughout

Entertainment:

• Cultural performances (Yola dancing, drumming)
• Falconry demonstrations
• Storytelling and cultural education

Extras:

• Photo opportunities at multiple locations
• Cultural dress for photos (available at camps)
• Participation in activities (drumming, etc.)

Not typically included:

• Alcoholic beverages (available for purchase at some camps)
• Personal expenses and shopping
• Tips/gratuities (appreciated but not required)
• Photos taken by professional photographers (available for purchase)
• Premium activities beyond standard package
• Hotel accommodation

Specific inclusions vary by safari type – refer to individual experience descriptions or contact us for detailed breakdowns.

Dubai vs. Abu Dhabi desert safaris:

Dubai advantages:

• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (authentic conservation)
• More variety of premium experiences
• Better accessibility from central Dubai
• Award-winning operators like Botes Safaris

Abu Dhabi advantages:

• Liwa Desert offers more dramatic dune landscapes
• Empty Quarter experiences (Rub’ al Khali)
• Generally less commercial feeling

Dubai vs. International desert safaris:

1. Morocco (Sahara):

• Dubai: Shorter experiences (hours), more luxury-focused, cultural education
• Morocco: Multi-day desert expeditions, remote camping, more rugged

1. Namibia:

• Dubai: Accessible, luxurious, cultural focus
• Namibia: Dramatic landscapes (Sossusvlei dunes), wildlife-focused, longer journeys

1. Arizona (USA):

• Dubai: Genuine Bedouin culture, conservation focus, Middle Eastern authenticity
• Arizona: Western desert culture, different ecosystem, Native American heritage

Why choose Dubai desert safaris:

• Accessibility – Minutes from world-class city
• Convenience – No multi-day commitment required
• Authentic culture – Genuine Emirati/Bedouin heritage
• Luxury – World-class facilities and service
• Conservation – Supports real environmental protection
• Safety – Excellent infrastructure and standards
• Variety – Multiple experience types
• Year-round – Always available (unlike seasonal destinations)

Best for: Travelers wanting authentic Arabian desert culture, convenient access, and premium experiences without remote location challenges.