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Dubai Desert Safari Cost Guide: What to Expect and How to Choose

Dubai desert safaris are among the most popular experiences for tourists visiting the UAE. Offering a mix of adventure, culture, and stunning desert landscapes,

Dubai desert safaris are among the most popular experiences for tourists visiting the UAE. Offering a mix of adventure, culture, and stunning desert landscapes, they cater to a wide range of budgets and preferences. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly dune bashing ride or a luxurious private desert experience, there's a safari for you.

This guide breaks down the different types of Dubai desert safaris and their costs so you can plan the perfect desert adventure.


1. Types of Desert Safaris in Dubai

There are several types of desert safaris to choose from, each offering a unique experience and price range:

a. Morning Safari

Perfect for those who prefer cooler temperatures and a shorter experience.

Activities May Include:

  • Dune bashing
  • Sandboarding
  • Camel rides
  • Quad biking (optional)

Cost: AED 100–300 ($27–82) per person


b. Evening Safari (Most Popular)

The evening safari offers the full desert experience, including a traditional Bedouin-style camp and dinner.

Typical Inclusions:

  • Hotel pickup/drop-off
  • Dune bashing
  • Camel riding
  • BBQ dinner buffet
  • Belly dancing & Tanoura show
  • Henna painting
  • Shisha (optional)

Cost: AED 150–350 ($41–95) per person (shared) AED 800–1,500+ ($218–408+) for private bookings


c. Overnight Safari

Ideal for those who want to experience the desert under the stars.

Extras Include:

  • Sleeping bags/tents
  • Stargazing
  • Morning breakfast
  • Sunrise camel ride

Cost: AED 300–600 ($82–164) per person


d. Luxury or Premium Safari

Tailored for those seeking a more exclusive experience with added comfort and gourmet touches.

Inclusions May Feature:

  • Vintage Land Rover ride or private 4x4
  • Gourmet meals
  • Falconry show
  • Fine dining setup
  • Desert conservation tour

Cost: AED 600–2,000+ ($164–545+) per person


2. Optional Add-Ons and Extras

Many safari providers offer optional activities that may increase the overall cost:

ActivityApproximate Cost
Quad bikingAED 100–250 ($27–68)
Dune buggy rideAED 600–1,200 ($164–327)
Private car upgradeAED 500–800 ($136–218)
Professional photosAED 100–200 ($27–55)

3. What’s Included in the Price?

In most standard safari packages, these are usually included in the base cost:

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Dune bashing in a 4x4
  • Camel ride (short, 2–5 minutes)
  • BBQ dinner (evening and overnight safaris)
  • Cultural performances
  • Soft drinks and water

Always check the specific inclusions with the tour provider to avoid hidden costs.


4. How to Choose the Right Safari

When comparing desert safari options, consider the following:

  • Budget – Shared tours are more affordable; private or luxury tours cost more.
  • Experience level – Want adrenaline? Go for dune buggies. Prefer relaxation? Try a cultural or conservation tour.
  • Group size – Families or large groups may benefit from private packages.
  • Timing – Morning for adventure, evening for culture, overnight for nature lovers.

5. Tips for Booking a Desert Safari

  • Book in advance, especially during peak season (October–April).
  • Compare providers and read reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or GetYourGuide.
  • Look for deals on coupon sites or hotel concierge desks.
  • Ask about insurance and safety, particularly for high-speed activities like dune bashing.

Conclusion

The cost of a Dubai desert safari can range from a budget-friendly AED 100 ($27) to a luxurious AED 2,000+ ($545) experience, depending on the type of safari and level of comfort you choose. With the right planning, you can find the perfect safari that matches your budget and gives you unforgettable memories in the golden dunes of Dubai.