How to book a night desert safari with stargazing in Dubai?

Ever wondered what it’s like to gaze at the stars from the heart of the Arabian desert? Dubai offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity with its night desert safaris that include stargazing experiences. From thrilling dune bashing to peaceful moments under the night sky, here’s how you can book and enjoy this unforgettable experience.

Choosing the Right Safari Experience

Dubai’s desert safaris come in various forms, each offering a different experience. For stargazing enthusiasts, it’s essential to select a safari that includes this feature. Some tours focus more on adventure activities, while others emphasize cultural experiences and astronomy sessions. Researching and selecting the right tour operator is crucial to ensure your expectations are met.

Top Tour Operators Offering Stargazing Safaris

Several reputable tour operators in Dubai offer night desert safaris with stargazing:

• Platinum Heritage: Known for their luxury experiences, they offer private night safaris in vintage Land Rovers, followed by astronomy sessions led by expert guides.
• OceanAir Travels: They provide overnight desert safaris that include dune bashing, camel rides, BBQ dinners, and telescope-assisted stargazing sessions.
• Orient Tours: Their Mleiha desert safari includes visits to archaeological sites, dune drives, and guided stargazing experiences.

When choosing a tour operator, consider factors like group size, type of vehicle, inclusions, and customer reviews.

What to Expect During the Safari

A typical night desert safari with stargazing includes:

• Hotel Pickup: Most tours offer pickup and drop-off services from your hotel in Dubai.
• Dune Bashing: Experience an adrenaline-filled ride over the sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle.
• Camel Rides: Enjoy a traditional mode of desert transport with a short camel ride.
• BBQ Dinner: Savor a delicious buffet dinner featuring Middle Eastern cuisine.
• Cultural Activities: Engage in activities like henna painting, shisha smoking, and watching traditional dance performances.
• Stargazing Session: After dinner, participate in a guided stargazing session using telescopes, learning about constellations and celestial bodies.

Best Time for Stargazing in Dubai

The ideal time for stargazing in Dubai is during the winter months, from November to March. During this period, the skies are clearer, and the temperatures are cooler, making it comfortable to spend time outdoors at night. Additionally, planning your safari around the new moon phase will provide the darkest skies, enhancing the visibility of stars.

What to Wear and Bring

Dressing appropriately ensures a comfortable experience:

• Clothing: Wear light, breathable clothing for the day and bring a jacket or shawl for the cooler desert nights.
• Footwear: Opt for comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on sand.
• Accessories: Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for daytime protection.
• Essentials: Carry a reusable water bottle, camera, and any personal medications you might need.

Booking Tips

• Advance Booking: Night desert safaris with stargazing are popular, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s advisable to book your tour in advance to secure your spot.
• Group Size: If you prefer a more intimate experience, consider booking a private tour. Larger group tours are more budget-friendly but may offer less personalized attention.
• Special Requirements: Inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions or special needs ahead of time.

Safety Considerations

While desert safaris are generally safe, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines:

• Listen to Your Guide: Pay attention to safety briefings and instructions provided by your guide.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
• Medical Conditions: If you have any medical conditions, consult with your doctor before participating in activities like dune bashing.

Environmental Responsibility

Respect the desert environment by:

• Avoiding Littering: Dispose of waste properly and avoid leaving any trash behind.
• Protecting Wildlife: Do not disturb or feed wild animals you may encounter.
• Staying on Designated Paths: Stick to marked trails to minimize environmental impact.

Cultural Etiquette

Being mindful of local customs enhances your experience:

• Dress Modestly: While the desert is more relaxed, it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially during cultural activities.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, particularly locals.
• Behavior: Maintain respectful behavior during cultural performances and interactions.

Final Thoughts

A night desert safari with stargazing in Dubai offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.