If you are travelling to Dubai, you should experience Dubai Desert Safari. It is a perfect blend of adventure, exploration, and relaxation.
The Dubai desert is not just a vast expanse of sand, but it is a world of its own, with unique flora and fauna, rich cultural heritage, and ancient Bedouin traditions.
It is a unique experience that allows you to discover the beauty of the Arabian dunes and the rich culture of the Bedouin people.
From camel rides to sand boarding, from traditional performances to sumptuous feasts, a desert safari offers an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave you in awe.
Different types of Dubai Desert Safari- Morning & Evening
I asked my friend about desert safari booking and she suggested I go during the sunrise as the view was simply splendid!
But the morning package cost was a bit high and we wanted to experience the whole desert safari adventure – the belly dance show, fire show, delicious food, and the safari ride.
So, we went for the evening package as the rates were comparatively less and we got to enjoy all the activities that the desert safari had to offer!
Let me give you a brief. Dubai Desert Safari offers unique experiences that cater to the different preferences and interests of travelers.
1. Morning Safari
It is perfect for those who want to experience the desert in the early hours of the day. This tour typically starts at around 8:00 AM and includes activities such as dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and quad biking.
It is a great way to witness the magnificent beauty of the desert during sunrise and take advantage of the cooler temperatures.
2. Evening Safari
It is the most popular among tourists. It usually starts in the afternoon and ends at night. This tour provides a perfect opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunset over the sand dunes.
Activities include dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, quad biking, and a traditional Arabian dinner complete with live entertainment such as belly dancing and Tanoura dance.
*Then there is Overnight safari & Private safari too. And next comes normal sittings & VIP sittings.
VIP majlis (sittings) desert safari package on cab sharing
Before our trip to Dubai, I was doing my research and watching travel vlogs about the city. One thing was clear to me – booking a VIP desert safari package with cab sharing was the way to go!
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We got picked up from our hotel and the driver collected other tourists on the way. Once we reached the desert, we were taken to a special seating area for VIPs and we were greeted with cold drinks and water.
We got to enjoy the buffet early around 6 pm, whereas for normal sitting it starts late.
Also, we got to watch the entertainment shows from the best seat in the house. Even though we were on a budget, I was happy to splurge a little for this experience – it was worth it! Plus it wasn’t too expensive.
I would definitely recommend booking a VIP majlis for a desert safari – it’s an experience you won’t forget! My siblings were so happy with my decision.
How to book?
There are several websites offering different packages for desert safari. You can also book from a local travel agent like us.
When we were staying at the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Dubai Deira, we came across Right Way Tours LLC’s booth and decided to check out their desert safari packages.
We were so impressed with their services that we chose them to help us explore the mesmerizing desert.
What’s Included in the VIP majlis package with cab sharing?
- Pick & drop from the hotel on cab sharing (city tour-like experience)
- Dune bashing 0f 5-10mins (It was surreal)
- Very small Camel ride (It was a joke)
- Henna painting (very small)
- VIP seatings (felt royal)
- BBQ dinner (Food was ok)
- Entertainment shows (The camel ride show in Bedouin style was the best)
Cost: 200 AED per person
What to expect on a Dubai Desert Safari? My experience
A Dubai Desert Safari is an adventure-packed experience that offers a glimpse into the raw beauty of the desert.
First off, we were picked up from our hotel along with other tourists and driven to the outskirts of Dubai where the desert awaits.
The cab ride journey was itself paisa wasool because we had a city tour-like experience.
Once there, we boarded a 4×4 vehicle to experience dune bashing, which took us on a thrilling ride over rolling sand dunes, offering panoramic views of the desert landscape, experiencing the rush of speed and the excitement of the rugged terrain.
We had the time of our lives doing this activity! From the second we started, I didn’t want it to end – it was just that much fun!
Dune bashing was only 5-10 minutes, but it was the highlight of the day. I’m telling you, you’re going to love it!
Another popular adventure sport in the desert is quad biking. This exciting activity allows you to ride a quad bike through the desert, navigating the sand dunes and experiencing the thrill of the open desert.
Exploring the desert was part of our plan but when we found out that quad bike riding was not included in the package and we would have to pay extra for it, we decided to skip it.
Next up was camel riding, which turned out to be a joke! It was included in our package and all we got was a quick, circular ride and that was it.
The desert safari also gives you an opportunity to explore the traditional Bedouin lifestyle by visiting a Bedouin camp.
We went inside our camp and had the idea to get a free henna painting, however, the wait was too long and the size was too small, so we decided to skip it.
The highlight of the evening was the BBQ dinner, which is a lavish spread of Middle Eastern cuisine. You can feast on a variety of kebabs, grilled meat, and other delicacies while enjoying live performances by belly dancers and other traditional performers.
I found the BBQ dinner ok but it was nothing compared to the amazing camel show I saw in Bedouin style!
I was in awe as I watched the lights go off, and the camel caravan gracefully move along with old Arabic music. It felt as if I had gone back in time and I was completely mesmerized by the experience.
As the night draws to a close, we were dropped back to your hotel, tired but exhilarated after an unforgettable Dubai Desert Safari experience.
Tips to make the most of your Desert Safari
If you’re planning a desert safari in Dubai, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to make the most of your experience.
1.Plan ahead. Decide which type of safari you want to go on – morning, evening, or overnight – and book in advance to avoid disappointment.
2. Dress appropriately for the weather. Dubai’s desert climate can be extremely hot, so wear light and breathable clothing that covers your skin. Don’t forget to wear a hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun. I had bought an Arabic headscarf with me from India and saved money from buying from the desert. Do bring a lightweight jacket or hoodie, as the temperature drops when the sun goes down and it gets chilly in the desert at night.
3. Be prepared for the dune bashing: Dune bashing is a thrilling part of the desert safari, but it can also be quite bumpy. If you are prone to motion sickness, be sure to take medication before the safari.
4. Lastly, relax and enjoy the experience. A desert safari is a unique and thrilling experience that you’ll never forget. So, sit back and enjoy the ride as your guide takes you on a journey through the stunning Dubai desert.
Conclusion and why Dubai Desert Safari should be on your bucket list?
In conclusion, a Dubai Desert Safari experience is something that should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is a thrilling adventure that allows you to discover the beauty of the desert and experience the culture of Dubai in a unique way.
Despite some misses and disappointments, it was all worthwhile for the astounding dune bashing, cab ride, and overall Dubai desert experience – a great value for the price you pay!
So, if you are planning a trip to Dubai, be sure to add it to your itinerary, and if you haven’t yet, start planning your next adventure to discover the thrill of desert life in Dubai.
Thank you for reading, and I hope you have the opportunity to experience a desert safari for yourself someday!
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