Dubai is not only renowned for its ultra-modern skyscrapers and luxurious lifestyle, but also for its breathtaking desert landscapes. One of the most exciting ways to explore this vast, golden terrain is through a desert safari in Dubai. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast looking for a thrilling dune bashing experience or someone wanting to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region, a desert safari is a must-do activity. However, before you dive into the excitement, it’s essential to understand the desert safari Dubai price. In this guide, we will walk you through the factors that influence pricing, the different types of safaris available, and what you can expect from your experience.
Factors That Influence the Desert Safari Dubai Price
The desert safari Dubai price varies depending on several key factors such as the type of safari, the time of day, the level of luxury, and the activities included in the package. Let’s break down the main elements that determine the cost:
1. Time of Day
The time of day you choose for your desert safari plays a significant role in determining the price.
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Morning Desert Safari: If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the morning safari is the way to go. It typically lasts for about 3-4 hours and includes dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding, but there’s no dinner or entertainment. The desert safari Dubai price for a morning safari generally ranges from AED 150 to AED 250 per person.
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Evening Desert Safari: This is the most popular option for tourists. An evening safari combines thrilling activities like dune bashing and camel riding with a traditional dinner and cultural entertainment. Expect to pay between AED 250 and AED 500 per person for an evening safari. This price reflects the inclusion of dinner, live entertainment, and a more relaxed experience under the desert stars.
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Overnight Desert Safari: For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the desert, the overnight safari is a fantastic option. It includes all the features of the evening safari, plus a night spent at a desert camp under the stars, complete with breakfast the following morning. The price for an overnight safari starts at AED 600 and can go up to AED 1,200 per person, depending on the luxury level and additional services.
2. Private vs. Group Safari
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Group Desert Safari: A group safari is typically more affordable because the cost is shared among all the participants. Group safaris are ideal for solo travelers or couples. Expect to pay between AED 150 and AED 500 per person depending on the type of safari you choose.
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Private Desert Safari: If you prefer a more exclusive experience, a private desert safari is an excellent choice. With a private safari, you have your own vehicle and guide, giving you a more personalized experience. Private safaris are more expensive, with prices ranging from AED 600 to AED 1,500 or more per person, depending on the level of luxury and the package you choose.
3. Additional Activities and Upgrades
To enhance your desert experience, many operators offer additional activities and upgrades for an extra cost. These can significantly affect the desert safari Dubai price.
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Quad Biking: Many safaris allow you to try quad biking for an additional AED 150 to AED 300. This activity lets you race across the dunes on an ATV and adds an extra thrill to your adventure.
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Hot Air Balloon Ride: For an unforgettable aerial view of the desert, consider adding a hot air balloon ride to your safari. Prices for this activity typically start at AED 900 per person and can go up depending on the operator and the package.
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Luxury Desert Safari: If you’re looking for a premium experience, luxury safaris offer enhanced services like private vehicles, gourmet meals, and exclusive camp areas. Prices for these high-end experiences typically start at AED 800 and can go as high as AED 2,000 per person.
What’s Included in the Desert Safari Dubai Price?
Regardless of the package you choose, a desert safari in Dubai typically includes a variety of exciting activities and services. Here’s what you can expect:
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Dune Bashing: The highlight of most desert safaris, dune bashing is a thrilling ride through the desert dunes in a powerful 4×4 vehicle. It’s an exciting, adrenaline-pumping experience as you climb and descend the sand dunes.
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Camel Ride: A camel ride is one of the most iconic experiences in the desert. Many safaris offer the opportunity to ride a camel through the desert, which is both a fun and relaxing way to experience the landscape.
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Sandboarding: For those seeking a bit more action, sandboarding is a fun activity where you glide down the dunes on a board, much like snowboarding. It’s often included in most evening safaris.
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Traditional Dinner: For evening and overnight safaris, a traditional Arabian buffet dinner is included. This typically features grilled meats, rice dishes, fresh salads, hummus, falafel, and Arabic sweets. Alcoholic beverages are available for an additional charge.
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Cultural Entertainment: Many evening safaris feature cultural performances, including belly dancing, Tanoura dancing, and fire shows, which provide a glimpse into the rich traditions of the region.
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Henna Painting: Some tours offer the opportunity to get a beautiful henna tattoo applied in traditional Arabic designs.
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Shisha Smoking: For those interested in trying out a traditional experience, shisha (waterpipe smoking) is often available at desert camps.
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Stargazing: Overnight safaris provide the chance to gaze at the clear desert sky, offering a unique stargazing experience under the tranquil desert night.
Tips to Get the Best Value for Your Desert Safari Dubai Price
To make sure you’re getting the best deal on your desert safari experience, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Book in Advance: Many tour operators offer discounts for early bookings. It’s always a good idea to secure your spot in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
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Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: If you’re visiting Dubai during the off-peak months (typically summer), you may find discounted prices due to lower demand. Keep in mind that Dubai can get very hot during the summer months, so check the weather before booking.
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Choose a Morning Safari: If you’re on a budget, a morning safari is typically more affordable than an evening or overnight safari. It still includes dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding, but without the added dinner and entertainment.
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Look for Package Deals: Some operators offer bundled packages that combine the desert safari with other activities like city tours or dhow cruises. This can be a great way to save on multiple attractions.
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Group Discounts: If you’re traveling with a group, inquire about discounts for larger parties. Many tour operators offer group discounts, which can help reduce the cost per person.
Conclusion
A desert safari in Dubai is an unforgettable experience that offers a blend of excitement, adventure, and cultural immersion. The desert safari Dubai price typically ranges from AED 150 for a budget-friendly morning safari to AED 1,500 for a luxury private experience. By considering the different options available, understanding what’s included, and knowing how to save on costs, you can enjoy an incredible adventure that suits your budget and interests.
Ready to embark on a thrilling desert journey? Book your desert safari in Dubai today and prepare for an adventure you’ll never forget!
