Best Non-Touristy Desert Safari Adventures in Dubai: Insider’s Picks

Our editorial team has called Dubai home for over three years. In our quest to find the best desert safari adventures in Dubai, we’ve explored countless options to compile this guide.

Beyond our personal experiences, we’ve conducted extensive research, analyzing feedback from travelers and insights from industry experts. We've sifted through reviews and opinions to present a curated selection of authentic, high-quality safaris that step away from the usual tourist trails. Our focus is on experiences that embrace Dubai’s natural beauty and culture, without falling into the trap of overcrowded or overly commercialized tours.

Is Dubai Desert Safari Worth It?

Absolutely! Here's why:

1. Experience the Unmatched Adventure: From thrilling dune bashing to serene camel rides, the Dubai Desert Safari offers unparalleled excitement.

2. Discover Local Traditions: Experience the rich Bedouin traditions with authentic desert camps, falconry, and traditional Arabic cuisine.

3. Experience Breathtaking Landscapes: Marvel at the endless beauty of golden dunes that define the timeless desert landscape.

4. See Amazing Wildlife: On your drive to the desert, spot diverse animals and creatures in their natural habitat.

5. Support Sustainable Tourism: Engage in eco-friendly practices and wildlife preservation in the heart of the Arabian desert.

6. Explore the desert with comfort and luxury: Dubai is at the forefront of introducing unique and luxurious desert experiences. These include night safaris and hot air balloon flights, giving you a bird's-eye view of the desert. Enjoy gourmet dinners in the middle of the desert under the night sky. Or stay at luxurious desert resorts like Al Maha, Bab Al Shams, Al Badayer Retreat that are famous for their outstanding service and private luxury, set in the peaceful desert surroundings.

7. Variety of Experiences: Whether seeking luxury, adventure, or cultural enrichment, there’s a safari experience tailored for every traveler.

All in all: The Dubai Desert Safari is worth exploring as it is not just an activity. It's an essential Arabian experience that offers a deep connection with nature, culture, and adventure.

Note: While some Dubai desert safaris may seem too commercialized, there's a variety of authentic experiences for different tastes and budgets. This guide showcases the best tours for true cultural and adventure experiences.

Which is the best desert safari tour in Dubai?

Choosing the best desert safari tour in Dubai can be overwhelming due to the plethora of options available. To help you navigate through these choices, we've sorted the tours into categories. We based our choices on our own experiences and travelers' reviews.

Best for Luxury:

Hot Air Balloon Ride, Vintage Land Rover Ride & Breakfast from Dubai

• Features: Unique combination of a hot air balloon ride and a vintage Land Rover desert drive.

• Food: Gourmet breakfast including smoked salmon, caviar, and eggs Benedict.

• Unique Inclusions: Falcon display, sunrise views from a hot air balloon, and a ride in a 1950s Land Rover.

• Camp Experience: Breakfast in an authentic desert setting on Royal grounds.

• Price & Duration: $376.86 for 5 hours.

Dubai: Luxury Safari in Land Rover Defender w/ 6-Course Meal

• Features: Enjoy a luxurious wildlife drive in a Land Rover Defender through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, followed by a falconry demonstration at an exclusive royal venue.

• Food: Savor sunset canapés with sparkling juice followed by a 6-course à la carte dinner under the stars.

• Unique Inclusions: Private oasis cabana dining, falconry display, and short sunset camel ride. Exclusive access to a royal lake and bird sanctuary.

• Camp Experience: Private, serene dinner setting at a royal family retreat, complemented by live entertainment and the option for shisha.

• Price & Duration: $530 for 7 hours.

Nara Desert Escape

• Features: Customized private/corporate events set against the enchanting backdrop of the Arabian desert, ideal for those looking to create memorable, private gatherings. The venue offers tailored setups to accommodate a range of events from corporate retreats to intimate celebrations.

• Food: The camp features a full-fledged kitchen, offering a range of culinary journeys from Japanese fusion cuisine and gastronomic dinners to signature barbecues and oriental menus. Guests can customize their meals with vegan and kids' options or work with the chef to create a menu that fits their specific tastes.

• Unique Inclusions: Customizable entertainment options, from live music and traditional dance performances to cultural activities.

• Camp Experience: Exclusively designed camp settings that offer privacy and luxury, combining comfortable tented accommodations with personalized service.

• Price & Duration: Based on the specific requirements and customization of each private event.

Best Cultural Immersion:

Al Marmoom Oasis Vintage Safari with Camels, Stargazing & Bedouin Dinner

• Features: Exploration of Al Marmoom Desert Reserve in a Vintage G 230 Mercedes, stargazing with a telescope.

• Food: Authentic 6-course Bedouin dinner.

• Unique Inclusions: Camel caravan ride, live Arabic coffee-making session, stargazing.

• Camp Experience: Authentic Bedouin Village experience with traditional entertainment.

• Price & Duration: $189.0 for 6 hours.

Overnight Desert Safari, Camel Ride, BBQ & Stargazing at Al Khayma Camp

• Features: Experience the thrill of dune bashing and sandboarding followed by a serene camel trek through the desert. Engage in cultural activities and enjoy the tranquility of an overnight stay under the stars.

• Food: Indulge in a traditional BBQ dinner under the starlit sky, followed by a hearty breakfast at dawn.

• Unique Inclusions: Enjoy cultural performances highlighting the area's rich history and stargazing under the clear desert night sky.

• Camp Experience: Spend the night in a traditional Al Khayma Camp, which offers an authentic desert experience.

• Price & Duration: $195.00 for 18 hours

Best Value for Money:

Premium Safari, Camel Ride & Al Khayma Camp 3-Buffets

• Features: Exciting desert safari with dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and falcon photo opportunities.

• Food: Enjoy a 5-star open buffet featuring Emirati, Moroccan, and Arabian dishes from a Michelin Star restaurant. Additionally, experience live BBQ stations for an interactive dining encounter.

• Unique Inclusions: Stargazing with a high-power telescope, live entertainment shows, and traditional activities at Al Khayma Camp.

• Camp Experience: Engage in a culturally rich evening at Al Khayma Camp. Complete with group activities and authentic Arabian night ambiance.

• Price & Duration: $69.00 for 7 hours

Best for Unique Inclusions:

Hot Air Balloon Ride with In-flight Falcon Show

• Features: Exclusive in-flight falcon show from up to 4,000 ft in the air.

• Food: Light refreshments including coffee and/or tea.

• Unique Inclusions: Witnessing a falcon take off, orbit, and land on the balloon basket.

• Camp Experience: Not applicable, as the focus is on the balloon ride and falconry.

• Price & Duration: $307.07 for 4 hours.

Private Night Vintage Land Rover Desert Safari & Astronomy with Dubai transfers

• Features: Exclusive private night safari in a vintage 1950s Land Rover through Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

• Food: 2-course a la carte dinner in a royal desert camp.

• Unique Inclusions: Professional astronomer-led astronomy session with a telescope, nocturnal wildlife walk with night vision binoculars targeting Arabian oryx and gazelles.

• Camp Experience: Private dining and stargazing at a desert camp owned by Dubai's royal family.

• Price & Duration: $781.56 for two adults for 5 hours, ensuring a private experience.

Best for Adventure Seekers:

MXDubai Off-Road Adventures

• Features: High-quality, advanced Dune Buggy, Dirt Bike, and Quad Bike tours.

• Unique Inclusions: Guided tours with premium off-road vehicles, suitable for all skill levels, full safety gear provided.

• Personal Note: Compared to more touristic options, MXDubai offers a professional, high-quality experience, distinguishing it from buggy/bike inclusions in typical desert tours.

• Price: from $122 (+$40 transfer) to $1 225.

Morning Falconry & Nature Desert Safari

• Features: Introduction to traditional Emirati falconry and a wildlife drive in a vintage Land Rover. This experience combines the tranquility of dawn with the beauty of Arabian wildlife, perfect for nature lovers.

• Food: Traditional Emirati breakfast in an authentic Bedouin camp.

• Unique Inclusions: Interactive falconry and birds of prey experience, wildlife spotting.

• Camp Experience: Breakfast and activities in a desert camp set in the heart of Dubai desert.

• Price & Duration: $166.1 for 5 hours.

The Ghost Village Safari Tour with Dune Bashing and Sandboarding

• Features: Discover the eerie Al Madam Ghost Village, an abandoned settlement engulfed by desert sands, offering a unique insight into the UAE's history. This deserted village, with its vacant houses and silent mosque, serves as a stark yet fascinating contrast to Dubai's modernity. The tour combines this unique cultural exploration with thrilling desert activities like dune bashing and sandboarding for an adventurous and memorable experience.

• Food: Refreshments are available for purchase, enhancing the desert adventure with hydration and snacks to keep the energy up.

• Camp Experience: This tour does not involve a camp but focuses on the exploration of Al Madam Ghost Village and the natural beauty of the desert.

• Price & Duration: $64.20 for 6 hours.

Best for Foodies:

Royal Desert Fortress Safari with Buffet BBQ & Shows

• Features: Embark on an exclusive desert adventure with a thrilling dune drive and the opportunity to engage in traditional activities such as camel and horse riding. The evening unfolds at the illuminated Al Sahra Desert Fortress, presenting an opulent setting for cultural immersion.

• Food: Relish in a 5-star buffet dinner featuring a variety of international and local dishes, including live BBQ stations, all prepared by top chefs to ensure a gourmet dining experience in the desert.

• Unique Inclusions: Experience close encounters with falcons, enjoy cultural shows, and unwind under the stars with premium entertainment including belly dancing, whirling dervish performances, and mesmerizing fire shows.

• Camp Experience: The evening is hosted at the grand Al Sahra Desert Fortress, a venue known for its majestic ambiance and traditional Arabian architecture, offering a unique blend of luxury and cultural heritage.

• Price & Duration: $165.00 for 7 hours

Dubai: Desert Conservation Reserve Tour by Platinum Heritage with Breakfast at Al Maha

• Features: Explore the unique and beautiful desert habitat in a luxurious Land Rover Defender with a professional guide. Spot the wildlife including Arabian Oryx, desert monitors, and various birdlife.

• Food: Enjoy a gourmet breakfast at the prestigious Al Maha Desert Resort, with views overlooking the desert dunes.

• Unique Inclusions: Luxury safari through Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, visit to a remote lake and bird sanctuary, complimentary headscarf, and the tranquility of a preserved wildlife area.

• Camp Experience: Breakfast and relaxation at Al Maha Desert Resort, known for its exclusivity and luxury amidst the desert.

• Price & Duration: $189 for 5 hours.

Each of these tours offers a unique perspective of Dubai's desert, tailored to different interests and expectations. Whether you're looking for luxury, cultural immersion, adventure, or unique experiences, there's a desert safari in Dubai that's perfect for you.

Comparative Overview of Desert Safari Experiences in Dubai

Following these highlighted experiences, we present a detailed table featuring additional high-quality, authentic desert experiences around Dubai. This table is carefully organized to facilitate your selection based on specific criteria such as duration, price, included activities, and the type of experience. Each listing in this table has been chosen for its authenticity and overall value, ensuring that you have access to the most genuine and memorable desert experiences available.

Group Size and Privacy

• Private: Only your group will participate, offering a more personalized and intimate experience.

• Small Group: Limited to a small number of people, enhancing the experience's exclusivity.

• Group: Larger groups, which might be less personal but offer a chance to meet other travelers.

Which agency is best for Dubai desert safari?

For the best Dubai desert safari experiences, consider:

1. Platinum Heritage: Offers luxury, eco-friendly safaris with cultural preservation. Known for authentic experiences like wildlife drives, traditional dinners and private service.

2. Nara: Specializes in exclusive and private desert experiences with personalized services that highlight Arabian heritage.

3. Arabian Adventures: Part of the Emirates Group, they provide quality desert safaris focusing on sustainable tourism and cultural insights.

4. OceanAir Travels: Offers comprehensive tours including city explorations and unique desert activities, known for customer-oriented services.

5. Tour Dubai: Delivers immersive cultural, historical, and adventure tours, showcasing the UAE's rich heritage.

Choose based on your preference for luxury, cultural authenticity, and adventure.

What is the best desert camp in Dubai?

Dubai's desert camps are not just about sand and tents; they are gateways to understanding the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of the Arabian desert. Each camp offers a unique blend of traditional Arabian hospitality, adventure, and luxury. Here’s a detailed look into what each of these renowned desert camps has to offer.

1. Al Khayma Desert Camp by OceanAir Travels

Located deep in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Khayma Desert Camp provides an authentic Bedouin experience. Guests can stay in traditional tents made from goat hair, dine on Emirati cuisine, and learn about the Bedouin way of life through interactive cultural activities. The camp's name, 'Al Khayma', translates to 'The Tent' in Arabic, reflecting its commitment to tradition. It's a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture without sacrificing comfort.

Prices: from $69 to $205

2. Al Marmoom Oasis by OceanAir Travels

Al Marmoom Oasis is set within the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the first unfenced nature conservation reserve in the UAE. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with the desert environment sustainably. Visitors can partake in guided nature walks, observe indigenous wildlife like the Arabian Oryx, and learn about local flora and fauna. The camp itself is designed to blend into the surrounding landscape, minimizing its environmental impact while providing comfortable accommodations.

Prices: from $69 for a 7-hour desert safari with BBQ and quad biking to $720 for a private morning desert safari on a vintage car

3. Arabian Adventures Camps

Arabian Adventures is well-known for offering customizable desert experiences. Their camps combine modern amenities with a traditional aesthetic.

Activities available include falconry, camel trekking, and dune drives. They place a strong emphasis on sustainability, operating under the 'Leave No Trace' principle. These camps are perfect for travelers looking for a personalized desert experience from a trusted brand.

Prices: from $93 for a morning dune drive to $971 for an exclusive desert safari with a private dinner

4. Ghost Village in Al Madam Desert

Not a camp but a popular destination for desert tours, the Ghost Village of Al Madam offers a unique glimpse into the UAE’s recent past. Abandoned in the 1970s, this village provides an eerie yet fascinating exploration opportunity. While there are no overnight stays, it's a must-visit for those interested in photography and history during their desert safari.

5. Al Sahra Desert Fortress by Tour Dubai

This camp is designed to resemble an ancient Arabian fortress and offers a blend of cultural entertainment and dining experiences. Located within the Jumeirah Desert, the Al Sahra Desert Fortress provides guests with a panoramic view of the desert landscape. The camp is known for its spectacular equestrian and falconry displays, making it ideal for those interested in traditional Arabian arts and performances.

Prices: from $134 for a 5-hour desert safari without dune bashing to $165 for a 7-hour experience with dune bashing

6. Caravanserai Desert Camp by Tour Dubai

Caravanserai stands out by blending traditional Arabian experiences with modern luxury, offering activities like camel rides and henna painting, alongside a diverse buffet in an authentic desert setting. It is generally considered a more budget-friendly option compared to Platinum Heritage and Nara, offering a traditional desert experience without the same level of personalized service or eco-luxury emphasis, and it might be a smaller, more communal setting compared to the expansive, private experiences offered by the other camps.

Prices: starting from $80 for a 4-hour desert safari without dune bashing to $107 for Caravanserai Desert Safari with live bbq & entertainment

7. Platinum Heritage Camp

Committed to eco-tourism and cultural preservation, Platinum Heritage offers one of the most authentic desert experiences. Their camps are located in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and offer activities that include wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and heritage dinners under the stars. They use vintage Land Rovers for their tours, adding to the authenticity and minimizing environmental impact.

They are recognized for replacing traditional dune bashing with wildlife drives to protect the desert ecosystem, reducing plastic usage by replacing plastic bottles with stainless steel reusable ones, and utilizing solar-powered desert camps, which led to their accolade at the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Awards 2019. They are also known for being the only desert safari company with full-time trained Conservation Guides, ensuring a deeply informed and expertly guided desert experience.

Prices: from $162 for Morning Bedouin Culture Safari & breakfast to $3893 for 4 people for an extra luxury VIP desert safari experience with private oasis and entertainment

8. Desert Camps by Nara

Nestled among the dunes, Desert Camps by Nara are synonymous with luxury and adventure. They are well-known for their exceptional dining experiences, with gourmet meals prepared by top chefs. Camps also offer a wide range of activities, including sandboarding, archery, and live musical performances.

Sonara Camp combines luxury with the natural desert environment, featuring gourmet dining, stylish tents, and vibrant entertainment. The Nest by Sonara offers cozy, upscale overnight settings.

Nara Desert Escape specializes in private experiences, ideal for those seeking solitude or custom events. Nara Desert Oasis provides a tranquil retreat, focusing on relaxation and nature. Each camp caters to distinct preferences, ensuring a memorable desert experience for every visitor.

9. Al Maha Resort

Al Maha Resort is listed in the Michelin Guide for Hotels. It is the epitome of desert luxury, offering private villas each with its own swimming pool.

Located in the heart of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, it provides serene tranquility and splendid isolation. Guests can enjoy bespoke desert activities along with spa treatments and gourmet dining. Al Maha is ideal for romantic getaways or peaceful retreats.

10. Bab Al Shams

Situated around an oasis, Bab Al Shams listed in the Michelin Guide for Hotels offers a luxurious gateway to the heart of the desert. The resort is designed like an ancient Arabian fortress and offers a range of engaging activities, including falconry, horse riding, and desert safaris. With its world-class amenities and authentic ambiance, Bab Al Shams caters to those looking for a blend of adventure and relaxation.

11. Al Badayer Retreat

Known for its traditional Emirati hospitality, Al Badayer Retreat is located near the famous red dunes of Al Badayer. It’s ideal for those looking to experience the desert away from the crowds. The retreat offers various accommodations and activities, including quad biking and camel riding. Its architecture is inspired by historic Emirati forts, providing guests with a cultural as well as a luxurious experience.

Choosing Your Desert Safari Camp

Selecting the right desert safari camp in Dubai depends on what you seek from the experience. For those interested in cultural immersion and traditional activities, the Al Khayma or Al Marmoom Bedouin Experience offers an authentic glimpse into Bedouin life. Luxury seekers will find the Platinum Heritage Camp and Royal Desert Fortress Camp to be more aligned with their tastes, offering exclusive adventures and gourmet dining in the heart of the desert.

Each camp provides a unique window into the soul of the desert, offering experiences that range from thrilling dune bashing and serene sunset viewings to intimate encounters with the Emirates' wildlife and culture. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure, a cultural journey, or a luxurious escape, Dubai's desert safari camps promise an adventure that's as enriching as it is exciting.

What is the best time for desert safari?

TL;DR: The best time for a desert safari in Dubai is from November to March, during the cooler months.

November to March: Ideal for cooler weather, offering morning and evening safaris with stunning views.

Early November to December: Prime time for comfortable temperatures.

September and April: Warmer but less crowded for private experiences.

June to August: Recommended for morning safaris to avoid the heat. Less suitable for evening activities due to high temperatures.

Additional Tips:

• Prepare warm clothing for evenings (November to March).

• Cooler months enhance the visibility of desert flora and fauna, enriching the safari experience.

• Check weather forecasts and operator reviews before planning.

What to Wear on a Desert Safari in Dubai?

TL;DR: Opt for comfortable, breathable clothing such as cotton shirts, trousers, or long skirts. To protect against the sun and sand use closed shoes, sunglasses, and hats.

Clothing: Choose lightweight, breathable attire. During the day, the desert's temperature can soar, making light-colored, loose-fitting clothes like cotton shirts, trousers, or long skirts preferable. These help reflect sunlight and keep you cool.

From November to March, as the sun sets, the temperature can drop significantly. Hence, experts recommend carrying a light jacket or shawl for the cooler evenings.

Footwear: Closed shoes, such as sneakers or boots, are essential. They offer protection from the hot sand during the day and provide stability and comfort for activities like sandboarding or camel trekking. Avoid sandals or open shoes that can allow sand in and lead to discomfort.

Accessories: Sun protection is crucial in the desert's harsh environment. Sunglasses will protect your eyes from the glaring sun, while a hat or a scarf can provide shade and further protect against sunburn. Additionally, if you plan quad biking or sandboarding, you might consider additional protective gear like gloves or knee pads.

Remember, the desert environment can be unpredictable during cooler seasons. So dressing in layers that you can add or remove as the temperature changes is wise. This approach ensures you remain comfortable throughout the safari, allowing you to fully enjoy the unique experience.

Discover the UAE's stunning landscapes and rich culture with our selected desert safari tours in Dubai.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best desert camp in Dubai?

Al Khayma Desert Camp by OceanAir Travels and the Platinum Heritage Camp are among the top picks for their authentic experiences and cultural richness.

Are camel rides included in all Dubai desert safaris? And which tours offer longer camel rides?

Many desert safari tours include brief camel rides, but some offer extended treks through the desert. For instance, the "Camel Desert Safari with Traditional Dinner & Heritage Activities from Dubai" provides a memorable 45-minute ride throughout the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to a desert camp. Another noteworthy experience is the "Sunset Camel Caravan Safari with BBQ Dinner at Al Khayma Camp" offering an extended 35-45-minute camel trek, allowing for a deeper exploration of the desert landscapes.

What type of entertainment can I expect at a desert safari camp?

Common features include traditional entertainment such as belly dancing, Tanoura dances, fire shows, and sometimes even live music performances. Cultural activities typically feature opportunity to ride a camel and henna painting, allowing guests to get temporary traditional tattoos. They also include interactive bread-making stations and live cooking stations for Luqaimat, a tasty Arabic sweet pastry. Most experiences, include serving Arabic coffee or Karak tea alongside dates, welcoming guests in true Bedouin style.

Additionally, many camps provide opportunities for guests to dress in traditional Arabian costumes for photographs, enhancing the cultural immersion. Shisha smoking is another activity that varies across camps. While some provide it as part of the package, others may offer it as an extra add-on at an additional cost. Some tours may offer stargazing, wildlife spotting, interactive Falconry demonstrations, archery.

Are there any desert safaris in Dubai that focus on astronomy or stargazing?

Yes, specific tours like the "Private Night Vintage Land Rover Desert Safari & Astronomy with Dubai transfers" offer professional astronomer-led stargazing sessions, utilizing telescopes.

Are desert safaris suitable for everyone?

High-adrenaline activities like dune bashing and quad biking may not be suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or individuals with certain medical conditions.

How long does a desert safari last?

Times vary; morning safaris are shorter, while overnight stays are longer.