Dubai, a city known for its towering skyscrapers and extravagant lifestyle, also offers an entirely different kind of adventure in the form of its mesmerizing desert landscapes. A desert safari in Dubai is one of the most thrilling and memorable experiences a traveler can have. With the vast dunes, camel rides, and cultural performances, it’s a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the Arabian Desert. However, before you embark on this exciting journey, understanding the desert safari Dubai price is key to making an informed decision. In this article, we’ll walk you through what affects the cost, the different types of safaris available, and how to choose the best option for your budget.
What Factors Determine the Desert Safari Dubai Price?
The desert safari Dubai price varies significantly depending on various factors such as the time of day, the type of safari, and the services included in your package. Let’s break it down:
1. Time of Day
When you choose to book your safari plays a significant role in the price you’ll pay.
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Morning Desert Safari: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the morning desert safari is your best bet. Morning safaris are typically shorter and more affordable, lasting about 3 to 4 hours. The activities included usually consist of dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding, but they don’t include dinner or evening entertainment. The desert safari Dubai price for a morning safari usually ranges from AED 150 to AED 250 per person.
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Evening Desert Safari: The evening desert safari is the most popular choice among tourists. It includes all the thrilling activities of the morning safari plus a traditional dinner in a desert camp, cultural performances like belly dancing and Tanoura dancing, and a relaxed atmosphere under the stars. Evening safaris typically cost between AED 250 to AED 500 per person, depending on the level of service.
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Overnight Desert Safari: If you want to experience the desert in its full glory, consider the overnight safari. These safaris include everything from the evening safari, plus an overnight stay in a traditional desert camp. You’ll wake up to a beautiful desert sunrise and enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading back. The desert safari Dubai price for an overnight safari ranges from AED 600 to AED 1,200 per person.
2. Private vs. Group Safari
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Group Desert Safari: A group desert safari is more affordable as the costs are shared among multiple guests. This is a great option for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. The desert safari Dubai price for a group safari typically ranges from AED 150 to AED 500 per person, depending on the type of safari.
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Private Desert Safari: For those looking for an exclusive, personalized experience, private safaris are available. You’ll have your own 4×4 vehicle, private guide, and customized itinerary. A private desert safari allows for more flexibility and luxury, making it ideal for families or small groups. The desert safari Dubai price for a private safari starts around AED 600 and can go up to AED 1,500 per person, depending on the services included.
3. Additional Activities and Upgrades
For those seeking a more luxurious experience or additional activities, several add-ons can increase the desert safari Dubai price. Here are some popular upgrades:
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Quad Biking: Add a quad bike ride to your safari for an additional AED 150 to AED 300. It’s a great way to add an extra thrill to your desert adventure.
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Hot Air Balloon Ride: For an unforgettable aerial view of the desert, consider adding a hot air balloon ride. Prices for this unique experience start at AED 900 per person.
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VIP and Luxury Packages: If you want a more luxurious experience, many operators offer VIP packages that include premium vehicles, private seating areas at the camp, gourmet meals, and other high-end services. These can cost anywhere from AED 800 to AED 2,000 or more per person.
What’s Included in the Desert Safari Dubai Price?
Most desert safari Dubai packages include a range of exciting activities and services. Here’s a breakdown of what you can typically expect:
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Dune Bashing: One of the main highlights of the safari, dune bashing involves a thrilling ride across the sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle. It’s a heart-pounding experience as you speed up and down the dunes.
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Camel Ride: No desert experience is complete without a camel ride. You’ll have the opportunity to ride these “ships of the desert” and take in the stunning views of the dunes.
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Sandboarding: For those looking for a bit more action, sandboarding allows you to ride down the dunes on a board, just like snowboarding.
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Traditional Dinner: For evening and overnight safaris, a buffet-style dinner is usually included. You’ll enjoy a variety of traditional Arabic dishes such as grilled meats, hummus, falafel, salads, and Arabic sweets. Alcoholic beverages are typically available for an additional cost.
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Cultural Entertainment: Many safaris feature live entertainment such as belly dancing, Tanoura dancing (a traditional folk dance), and fire shows. These performances provide a unique insight into the local culture.
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Henna Painting: Some tours include a henna painting session where you can get beautiful, temporary tattoos applied in traditional Arabian designs.
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Shisha Smoking: Many desert camps offer shisha (waterpipe) smoking as part of the experience, allowing you to relax and enjoy the evening in a peaceful setting.
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Stargazing: For overnight safaris, one of the highlights is stargazing. The desert’s clear skies offer the perfect opportunity to observe the stars in a tranquil setting.
Tips to Save on Your Desert Safari Dubai Price
While a desert safari in Dubai can be a little on the pricey side, there are several ways to save money without sacrificing the quality of your experience:
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Book in Advance: Booking your safari ahead of time can often save you money and help you secure the best deals. Tour operators sometimes offer early bird discounts or promotions.
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Travel Off-Peak: The peak season in Dubai is between November and March. If you can plan your visit during the summer months (April to October), you may find lower prices due to decreased demand.
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Go for a Group Safari: Group safaris are usually cheaper than private ones, as the cost is split among several participants. This is a great way to enjoy the experience without the premium price tag.
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Look for Special Offers: Many operators offer discounts, especially during low seasons or for larger groups. Be sure to check for online deals and promotional packages.
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Choose a Morning Safari: Morning safaris tend to be cheaper since they don’t include dinner or evening entertainment. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the morning safari is a great choice.
Conclusion
The desert safari Dubai price can range from AED 150 for a basic group morning safari to AED 1,500 or more for a luxury private experience. Regardless of your budget, there’s a desert safari that’s perfect for you, whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, a cultural experience, or a relaxing night under the stars. By considering the factors that affect the cost and understanding what’s included in the price, you can ensure you’re getting the best value for your desert adventure.
So, are you ready to explore the golden dunes of the Arabian Desert? Book your desert safari in Dubai today and embark on an unforgettable adventure that combines excitement, culture, and natural beauty!
