The desert safari is the UAE's signature experience: 4x4 dune bashing, golden-hour photo stops, camel rides and a BBQ dinner under the stars. Here's how to get it right the first time.
Evening vs morning safari
The classic evening safari (3:30–9:30 PM) packs in dune bashing, sunset photos, henna, shows and dinner — best for first-timers. Morning safaris are cooler, quieter and better for sandboarding, but skip the camp entertainment.
Is dune bashing safe?
With licensed drivers, yes — vehicles are roll-cage equipped Land Cruisers, tyres are deflated for the sand and convoys travel together. Skip the heavy lunch beforehand if you get motion sickness, and ask for a gentle ride if travelling with young children. Dune bashing is not recommended during pregnancy or for back-problem sufferers — camps welcome you to arrive without the bashing portion.
What to wear and bring
Light, loose clothing; sandals or trainers you don't mind filling with sand; sunglasses; a light jacket in winter months when the desert cools fast after sunset. Bring your phone with storage cleared — the sunset dune photos are the ones you'll keep.
What's included
Our AED 99 evening safari includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubai, dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, henna, unlimited soft drinks and a BBQ buffet with live shows. VIP tables and quad bikes are optional add-ons.