Dubai is famous for its luxurious skyscrapers, shopping malls, and pristine beaches, but one of the most thrilling experiences it offers is a desert safari. A family desert safari dubai is an unforgettable adventure, combining dune bashing, camel rides, cultural performances, and delicious food under the stars.
However, with so many tour operators offering different packages, choosing the best one for your family can be overwhelming. This guide will help you pick the perfect family-friendly desert safari by considering safety, activities, comfort, and value for money.
1. Determine the Type of Desert Safari Suitable for Your Family
Desert safaris in Dubai come in different types, each offering a unique experience. Here are the main options:
A. Morning Desert Safari
- Best for families with young children or those who prefer a shorter trip.
- Activities: Dune bashing, sandboarding, and short camel rides.
- Cooler temperatures in the early hours.
- No evening entertainment or dinner included.
B. Evening Desert Safari (Most Popular for Families)
- Starts in the afternoon and ends after sunset.
- Includes dune bashing, camel rides, henna painting, falconry shows, BBQ dinner, and live performances (Tanoura dance, belly dance).
- Perfect for families who want a full desert experience.
C. Overnight Desert Safari
- Ideal for families who want a more immersive experience.
- Includes all evening safari activities plus overnight camping in traditional Bedouin-style tents.
- Stargazing and a quiet desert sunrise experience.
Which one to choose?
- If you have toddlers or elderly family members, a morning safari is safer and less exhausting.
- For a balanced mix of adventure and entertainment, an evening safari is ideal.
- If your family loves camping, an overnight safari will be a memorable experience.
2. Check the Safety Measures for Kids and Family Members
Safety should be a top priority when selecting a desert safari for your family. Here’s what to look for:
A. Age and Height Restrictions for Dune Bashing
- Some operators do not allow children under 5 years old in dune bashing vehicles.
- Pregnant women and people with back problems should avoid intense dune bashing.
- Choose a family-friendly operator that offers milder rides for kids.
B. Seat Belts and Vehicle Condition
- Ensure the 4×4 vehicles have functioning seat belts and are well-maintained.
- Reputable companies use modern, air-conditioned SUVs for comfort.
C. Professional and Licensed Drivers
- Drivers should be experienced in desert terrain and follow safety protocols.
- Check online reviews to see if past customers felt safe during the ride.
D. First Aid Availability
- A good tour company will have basic first aid kits in case of minor injuries.
3. Look for Family-Friendly Activities
A great family desert safari should offer activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. Here are some must-have experiences:
A. Camel Rides
- A gentle and fun activity for all ages.
- Some operators offer short rides, while others include longer treks.
B. Sandboarding
- Similar to snowboarding but on sand dunes.
- Safe for kids (with supervision) and thrilling for teens.
C. Falconry Shows
- A cultural experience where trained falcons perform.
- Kids love seeing these majestic birds up close.
D. Henna Painting
- Temporary, non-toxic designs for kids and adults.
- A fun way to experience local traditions.
E. Live Entertainment
- Tanoura dance (a traditional spinning performance).
- Belly dance (some families may prefer child-friendly shows).
- Fire shows (exciting but ensure kids are at a safe distance).
F. Kids’ Play Area
- Some luxury desert camps have dedicated play zones with slides and sand pits.
Pro Tip:
- Avoid operators that focus only on extreme dune bashing if you have young kids. Look for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.
4. Compare Inclusions: Food, Drinks, and Extras
Desert safari packages vary in what they include. Here’s what to check:
A. Meal Options
- Most evening safaris include a BBQ buffet dinner (grilled meats, salads, desserts).
- Check if there are vegetarian or kid-friendly meal options.
- Some luxury tours offer private dining setups for families.
B. Beverages
- Water and soft drinks should be freely available.
- Some tours include Arabic coffee and dates as a welcome drink.
- Alcohol may be served in certain packages (opt-out if traveling with kids).
C. Extras (Photography, Quad Biking, etc.)
- Some operators offer free photos with falcons or camels.
- Quad biking is fun but usually costs extra and has age restrictions.
5. Read Reviews and Check Company Reputation
Before booking, research the tour operator thoroughly:
A. Check Online Reviews
- Look at Google Reviews, TripAdvisor, and Facebook ratings.
- Pay attention to comments about safety, food quality, and staff behavior.
B. Avoid Cheap, Unlicensed Operators
- Extremely low prices may mean compromised safety or poor service.
- Licensed operators follow Dubai Tourism regulations.
C. Look for Family-Specific Feedback
- Search for reviews from families who took the tour.
- See if kids enjoyed the experience or if there were any issues.
6. Consider the Pickup and Drop-off Convenience
A good family desert safari should offer:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (saves time and hassle).
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transport (especially important in summer).
- Clear communication about pickup times.
Pro Tip:
- If staying in a remote location, confirm if the operator services your area.
7. Compare Prices and Book in Advance
Desert safari prices range from AED 100 to AED 500 per person, depending on inclusions.
- Budget options (~AED 100-200): Basic dune bashing, short camel ride, simple dinner.
- Mid-range (~AED 200-350): More activities, better food, entertainment.
- Luxury (~AED 400+): Private tours, premium dining, VIP treatment.
Booking Tips:
- Book online in advance for discounts.
- Avoid last-minute bookings during peak season (Oct-Mar).
- Look for family package deals (discounts for kids).
Final Checklist Before Booking
✅ Type of Safari (Morning/Evening/Overnight)
✅ Safety Measures (Child-friendly dune bashing, seat belts)
✅ Activities (Camel rides, sandboarding, shows)
✅ Food Options (Kid-friendly meals available)
✅ Reviews (Positive family feedback)
✅ Transport (Hotel pickup included)
✅ Price (Good value for money)
Conclusion
Choosing the best family desert safari in Dubai requires balancing adventure, safety, and comfort. By considering the type of safari, safety measures, activities, food options, and company reputation, you can ensure a fun and hassle-free experience for the whole family.
