What are the best desert safari tours in UAE?

Have you ever dreamt of escaping the glittering skyscrapers and bustling streets of Dubai or Abu Dhabi for an adventure into the heart of an ancient landscape, where golden dunes stretch as far as the eye can see? A desert safari in the UAE is precisely that, an exhilarating and culturally rich experience that promises a memorable journey into the Arabian wilderness.

The Quintessential Evening Desert Safari

The most popular choice among visitors is undoubtedly the evening desert safari, a comprehensive package that offers a thrilling mix of adventure, cultural immersion, and entertainment. Typically starting in the afternoon, these safaris include dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle, where skilled drivers navigate the undulating sands with exhilarating twists and turns – a true adrenaline rush. Following the dune bashing, guests are usually taken to a traditional Bedouin-style desert camp. Here, you can enjoy activities such as camel riding, sandboarding down the dunes, trying out henna painting, and dressing in traditional Emirati attire for photos. The evening culminates with a sumptuous BBQ dinner under the stars, accompanied by captivating live entertainment like belly dancing, Tanoura dance (a mesmerizing whirling dervish performance), and fire shows. This all-inclusive experience offers a fantastic blend of thrill and cultural insight.

Morning Desert Safaris for the Early Risers

For those who prefer to experience the desert’s tranquility or are short on time, a morning desert safari is an excellent alternative. These tours typically start early, allowing you to witness the breathtaking desert sunrise, a truly magical sight as the sun paints the dunes in hues of orange and gold. Morning safaris often focus more on adventure activities like dune bashing, quad biking, or dune buggy rides without the evening camp activities. They are shorter, usually lasting a few hours, and conclude before the desert heat becomes too intense. This option is perfect if you want the thrill of the dunes and some adventurous activities before heading back to the city for other engagements.

Overnight Desert Safaris: Under a Blanket of Stars

For a truly immersive and unforgettable experience, consider an overnight desert safari. This option extends the evening safari by including an overnight stay at a desert camp, often in traditional Bedouin tents or comfortable sleeping bags under the open sky. After the evening’s festivities, you’ll have the chance to stargaze, away from the city lights, experiencing the profound silence and vastness of the desert night. Waking up to the desert sunrise, followed by a traditional breakfast at the camp, is an incredible way to connect with the serene beauty of the Arabian wilderness. These safaris provide a deeper appreciation for the Bedouin way of life.

Luxury and Eco-Friendly Desert Experiences

For travelers seeking a more exclusive or environmentally conscious desert adventure, several operators offer premium and conservation-focused safaris.

• Luxury Safaris: Companies like Platinum Heritage in Dubai provide high-end experiences, often using vintage Land Rovers for their desert drives, focusing on wildlife viewing within the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, and offering gourmet dining experiences in private settings. These tours prioritize comfort, authenticity, and a more intimate encounter with the desert, sometimes even including falconry displays as part of the cultural program.
• Conservation Safaris: Some tours specifically focus on the ecological aspects of the desert, taking you into protected areas like the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve. These safaris often involve more serene activities like gentle nature drives, bird watching, and learning about the desert ecosystem and its unique flora and fauna, rather than intense dune bashing. They are ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape.

Specialized Activities and Custom Tours

Beyond the standard packages, many desert safari operators offer specialized activities that can be added to your itinerary or booked as standalone experiences:

• Quad Biking and Dune Buggies: For adrenaline junkies, riding a quad bike or a powerful dune buggy through the desert provides an exhilarating, hands-on adventure. Many safari packages offer these as optional add-ons or dedicated tours.
• Camel Trekking: While most safaris include a short camel ride, some companies offer longer camel trekking experiences, allowing you to traverse the dunes at a slower, more traditional pace, mimicking the ancient Bedouin journeys.
• Hot Air Balloon Rides: For an unparalleled panoramic view of the vast desert landscape and its stunning sunrises, a hot air balloon ride is an extraordinary and memorable experience. These are typically booked separately and offer a unique perspective.
• Private Safaris: For families or groups desiring a more personalized experience, private desert safaris are available. These offer flexibility in timings, activities, and vehicle choice, allowing for a tailor-made adventure.

Choosing the Right Desert Safari Operator

With numerous tour operators in the UAE, selecting the best one can seem daunting. Here are a few tips:

• Read Reviews: Check online reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google. Pay attention to feedback regarding guide professionalism, vehicle safety, quality of food, and overall experience.
• Check Inclusions: Carefully review what’s included in the package. Does it cover transfers, all activities, meals, and entertainment? Are there any hidden charges?
• Safety Standards: Ensure the operator adheres to high safety standards, especially for activities like dune bashing. Vehicles should be well-maintained, and drivers should be certified and experienced.
• Location: While Dubai’s Lahbab Desert (known for its red dunes) is a popular spot, Abu Dhabi also offers fantastic desert safari experiences in areas like the Al Khatim Desert or the vast Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali), which boasts some of the world’s largest sand dunes.

What to Expect and What to Wear

Prepare for your desert adventure by wearing comfortable, loose clothing. Light fabrics are best, especially in warmer months. For evening safaris, bring a light jacket or shawl as desert nights can get cool. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. While most operators provide water, bringing an extra bottle is always a good idea. Remember, the desert sand is fine, so be prepared for it to get everywhere.

A desert safari is a highlight for most visitors to the UAE, offering a magical glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Whether you opt for an adrenaline-pumping dune bash or a serene cultural immersion, it’s an experience that truly transports you to another world. The team at www.few.ae knows that these tours cater to every taste, promising an adventure you won’t soon forget.