Top Dubai Safaris

A number of outfitters offer exciting excursions in the Dubai desert. Past travelers say these desert safaris are among the best:

• Dubai Red Dunes ATV, Camels, Stargazing & 5* BBQ Al Khayma Camp
• Dubai Premium Dunes Safari, Stargazing, 5* BBQ at Al Khayma Camp
• Dubai Desert Safari Dune Bashing, 60min ATV Quad, Camel Ride, BBQ
• Dubai Red Dune Desert Safari: Camel Ride, Sandboarding & BBQ Options
• Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner, Quad Bike & Camel Ride from Dubai

Yes. Desert safaris are among the must-do experiences in Dubai, combining adventure activities, magnificent natural landscapes, and the chance to experience traditional Arabian culture. Desert tours often offer great value by bundling together multiple fun activities, such as a “dune-bashing” 4WD excursion through the dunes, sandboarding, and camel rides, as well as quad bike excursions, stargazing, or a meal at a desert camp accompanied by live entertainment.

Desert safaris in Dubai can cost as little as US$20 per person, but most are in the US$30 to US$50 range. Prices vary depending on the included activities (and the length of each activity), the size of the tour group, the overall duration of the tour, and whether or not it includes breakfast, dinner, or other refreshments. Check the inclusions carefully before deciding.

Most desert safaris last between four and seven hours, which includes transfers from Dubai—about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive each way. The duration varies depending on the activities included, with morning safaris usually offering the most compact tours and evening dinner safaris lasting much longer. For the ultimate desert experience, choose an overnight tour and spend the night at a desert camp.

Dubai sits on the edge of the Arabian Desert, so there are lots of options for exploring the desert from the city. Desert safaris take place at various locations, but popular spots include the Al Awir Desert, the closest to the city (about a 35-minute drive); the Lahbab Desert, famous for its dramatic red dunes; and the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, which focuses on eco-friendly activities.

Unsurprisingly, it gets hot in the desert, so opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics and long, loose-fitting pants over shorts—they will protect you better from the sun, sand, and desert winds. Dress appropriately for any planned activities—skirts and dresses aren’t ideal for camel or ATV rides—and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes (the sand will be far too hot for sandals). Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a scarf or buff to protect your face from the sand. Finally, pack something warm for early morning, evening, and overnight tours, as desert temperatures plummet at night.

It depends. Shared desert safaris are usually the most popular and affordable option, but private tours generally offer a personalized experience and can be a great choice for families, couples, or groups of friends traveling together. A budget-friendly compromise might be a group tour paired with a private transfer to and from your hotel, so you can still travel in the comfort of a private vehicle, or a small-group tour with numbers limited to just 10 or 15 people.

Dubai safari prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now: 

• 6-Hour Thrilling Desert Safari in 4x4 with Entertainment Show
• Ultimate Red Dunes Safari with BBQ Dinner and Shows
• Desert Safari Tour in Dubai
• Desert Safari Dubai (Pickup and Drop by 4x4 Optional)
• Desert Safari with Camel Ride and Dinner

At first glance, many Dubai safaris look similar, so read the inclusions carefully to find the right one for you. Pay attention to the different tour upgrades available and when booking activities such as an ATV/quad bike excursion, look for details such as the length of the activity, where it takes place (in the dunes or on a purpose-built track), and how many people per ATV. Many tours are wheelchair-accessible, but some activities aren’t recommended for pregnant travelers or anyone with health or mobility issues—check with the operator before booking. Finally, make sure you book your tour at least a few days in advance, especially in peak season.

Dubai desert safaris tend to fall into two main categories: those that include dinner and those that don’t. Tour itineraries vary, but a typical tour includes a “dune bashing” 4WD excursion, sandboarding, and a short camel ride. Optional extras usually include ATV rides and dune buggy excursions. For evening tours with dinner, you’ll typically enjoy a BBQ dinner at a desert camp accompanied by a variety of live entertainment and cultural activities such as henna painting, shisha, or the chance to try on traditional clothing. Some tours also include a guided stargazing activity or a falconry show.

The best time to book a Dubai safari is usually during the winter months, from November through March, when desert temperatures are much cooler and less humid. Tour options are often limited in summer as the scorching heat and humidity make it impossible to enjoy outdoor activities during the daytime.

Yes. Most Dubai desert safaris are family-friendly, but some activities have age restrictions. For example, some tours require participants to be at least 14 to take part in sandboarding, ATV rides, and camel rides. These activities, along with dune-bashing tours, are also not suitable for seniors with limited mobility, pregnant travelers, or those with existing health conditions. Tour prices are typically discounted for younger children (usually up to age 10 or 11), while toddlers (usually up to age 3 or 4) can join for free. Children should be accompanied by an adult.

If you’re looking for a shorter desert experience, morning tours are ideal, as they usually set out early to avoid the heat and last about four hours. You can enjoy all the same activities as an afternoon or evening tour and be back in the city for lunch. Evening tours offer more of a cultural experience, with a traditional dinner as well as the opportunity to admire the desert stars. For the ultimate desert experience, overnight tours let you see it all, from sunset through sunrise.

Yes. Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off at your Dubai hotel and round-trip transport to the desert, but check the inclusions carefully to be sure. Transfers are sometimes an optional extra that must be selected at the time of booking. It’s also sometimes possible to upgrade to a private transfer, which usually means traveling in the comfort of a private, air-conditioned 4WD with no additional stops to pick up other passengers.