The vast and mesmerizing Dubai desert is one of the most iconic features of the UAE landscape. A Dubai desert tour offers you the opportunity to explore the heart of the Arabian Desert in a way that combines both adventure and tradition. From exhilarating dune bashing to the serenity of a starlit desert night, a desert tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Dubai. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the best desert tours in Dubai, including types, pricing, and how to make the most of your desert adventure.
Why Take a Dubai Desert Tour?
A Dubai desert tour is more than just a trip; it’s an experience that immerses you in the natural beauty, culture, and thrill of the desert. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone looking for a peaceful escape, a desert safari in Dubai offers something for everyone:
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Adrenaline-pumping activities like dune bashing and sandboarding
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Camel rides for a traditional desert experience
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Cultural experiences, including Arabic music, belly dancing, and falconry
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Overnight camping for those seeking a more immersive desert experience
With all these experiences and more, a desert tour promises to be one of the highlights of your Dubai trip.
Types of Dubai Desert Tours
Dubai offers a variety of desert tour packages, each tailored to different interests and levels of adventure. Here’s a look at the most popular options:
???? Morning Desert Safari
Best For: Early risers or those with limited time
Price Range: AED 100 – AED 200 ($27 – $55 USD)
Includes:
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Dune bashing
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Camel ride
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Sandboarding
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Light refreshments
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Duration: 3–4 hours
For those looking to escape the city before the heat sets in, the morning desert safari is a quick yet thrilling option.
???? Evening Desert Safari
Best For: Most visitors, especially families
Price Range: AED 150 – AED 350 ($40 – $95 USD)
Includes:
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Dune bashing
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Camel ride
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Sandboarding
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BBQ dinner with traditional dishes
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Live entertainment (belly dancing, Tanoura dance, fire show)
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Henna painting and shisha
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Duration: 6–7 hours
The evening safari is the most popular and offers the complete desert experience, including a beautiful sunset view over the dunes.
???? Overnight Desert Safari
Best For: Adventurers and stargazers
Price Range: AED 300 – AED 600 ($82 – $165 USD)
Includes:
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Everything from the evening tour
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Overnight camping under the stars
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Bonfire and stargazing
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Sunrise camel ride and breakfast
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Duration: 16–18 hours
For those seeking an extended experience, the overnight safari offers a deeper connection with the desert environment.
???? Luxury Desert Safari
Best For: VIP travelers or honeymooners
Price Range: AED 800 – AED 2,500+ ($220 – $680+ USD)
Includes:
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Private vintage Land Rover or luxury SUV
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Exclusive gourmet meals
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Falconry shows and private entertainment
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Customized experiences based on your preferences
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Duration: Customizable
If you prefer a high-end experience, a luxury desert safari offers comfort, privacy, and the best the desert has to offer.
What’s Included in a Dubai Desert Tour?
Most Dubai desert tours will include the following highlights:
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Hotel transfers to and from your accommodation
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4x4 dune bashing with a skilled, experienced driver
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Camel rides to explore the desert like a Bedouin
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Sandboarding on the golden dunes
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Arabic refreshments such as tea, coffee, and dates
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Cultural performances including belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and fire shows
Optional activities (for additional fees) may include:
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Quad biking or dune buggy rides
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Falconry displays
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Private VIP experiences
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Traditional henna tattoos and shisha
Dubai Desert Tour Pricing Breakdown
The cost of a Dubai desert tour can vary based on the type of experience, time of year, and the operator. Here’s an average price guide:
| Tour Type | Price Range (AED) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Safari | 100 – 200 | $27 – $55 |
| Evening Safari | 150 – 350 | $40 – $95 |
| Overnight Safari | 300 – 600 | $82 – $165 |
| Luxury Safari | 800 – 2,500+ | $220 – $680+ |
Note: Prices may fluctuate during peak tourist seasons like holidays or special events. Booking in advance can help secure better rates.
How to Book a Dubai Desert Tour
Booking a Dubai desert tour is simple, but it’s important to book with a reputable provider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
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Online platforms like Viator, GetYourGuide, and Klook are great for comparing prices and reading reviews before booking.
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Directly through tour operators such as Arabian Adventures, Platinum Heritage, or OceanAir Travels to get exclusive deals or customized packages.
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Hotel concierge desks may also offer desert tour bookings, but often at a premium price.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons (November to March).
Tips for Enjoying Your Dubai Desert Tour
To make the most of your Dubai desert tour, keep these helpful tips in mind:
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Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for dune bashing and camel riding.
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Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential to protect against the sun’s rays.
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Stay hydrated, as the desert heat can be intense, especially in the summer.
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Bring your camera to capture the stunning desert landscapes and cultural performances.
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Be mindful of your tour timing — early morning or late evening tours tend to offer cooler temperatures and better photo opportunities.
Conclusion: Experience the Magic of Dubai’s Desert
A Dubai desert tour is the perfect way to experience the otherworldly beauty and adventure of the Arabian sands. Whether you choose a thrilling dune bashing ride, a cultural experience with traditional entertainment, or an overnight desert camp under the stars, the desert offers an unforgettable journey.
Book your Dubai desert tour today and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will leave you with lasting memories of Dubai’s incredible desert landscape.