Dubai is the most visited emirate not only in the UAE but also in the Middle East. Its exceptional network of top-notch accommodations, highly efficient public transport system, mega malls, diverse culinary options, and extraordinary leisure attractions are the surefire aspects that draw people here from all over the world.
Besides its unequaled architectural marvels, Dubai is equally gasped over for its enormously untouched desert landscape, which is raw and wild yet exceptionally amusing and safe, making it a must-experience on any Dubai holiday. Now, are you curious to know where or how to get started? It is all possible with a desert safari in Dubai.
This Desert Safari Dubai guide lets you have a smooth, stress-free off-road experience on your holiday. It covers all the information on a desert safari, from the top reasons and locations to when to go and what to expect to top tips. So let’s get started!
WHY GO ON A DESERT SAFARI IN DUBAI?
There are many compelling reasons to take a desert safari in Dubai, and some of them are:
- To Admire the Vastness and Tranquility of the Arabian Desert
Dubai is rife with unmatched engineering marvels and record-breaking structures, but its isolated desert landscape is simply surreal and unbeatable. The astonishing ocean of sands that stretch out endlessly and mysteriously present a phenomenal sight, sure to lull you into a profound spell.
- To See the Desert-Adapted Flora and Fauna
It is known to all that a desert landscape is parched with no or minimal supply of water; Dubai’s desert is no exception. That said, it is a thriving habitat for various indigenous creatures and plant species. You can catch a glimpse of it on a desert safari.
- To Fuel Your Adventurous Spirit
A desert safari in Dubai is more than just a serene, off-road excursion. Fun-and-thrill seekers can make it as exhilarating as possible by adding a spectrum of desert-exclusive adventure activities.
- To Experience Inspiring Cultural Experiences:
Learn about the inspiring Bedouin culture and traditions as you get the unique chance to take part in many activities and experiences as part of a desert safari in Dubai.
HOW TO GET TO DUBAI’S DESERT: SELF-DRIVE OR FULLY GUIDED
When you plan a desert trip in Dubai, it is up to your abilities and unique preferences whether you should consider the freedom of a self-drive desert tour or the absolute convenience of a fully guided desert safari. A self-drive is the way to go, especially if you are a seasoned off-road explorer with a valid international driver’s license. But this is not recommended for a novice; in this case, it is always best to rely on a guided desert safari arranged by a professional service provider. Besides the services of an expert crew, it offers a structured itinerary with everything included, such as adventure activities, dining, cultural activities, traditional shows, and roundtrip hotel transfers.
DESERT SAFARI DUBAI LOCATIONS
There are some fantastic locations in and around Dubai for an incredible desert safari. Located 35 to 40 minutes from the city center, Al Awir is one of the nearest desert safari spots in Dubai. Another popular location is Al Lahbab, characterized by the enigmatic red sands. For the most exciting experiences, such as the ‘Big Red’ desert adventure, you can head to the Bidayer Desert. Want to see the beauty of the desert at its best? Make your way to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, the country’s first national park that is fully protected. It is also the site of the most thrilling aerial adventures, like hot air balloon rides, paramotor flights, etc. If you are looking for an ethereal desert excursion, you can escape to Abu Dhabi’s desert or the captivating Liwa Oasis, more than a three-hour drive away.
DUBAI DESERT SAFARI: TOP ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCES
Adventurous Dune Bash
One of the highpoints of any desert trip is a heart-racing drive through the desert’s low and high dunes aboard a mighty 4X4 vehicle. It is super amusing, adventurous, loud, and boisterous all at the same time.
Sunrise and Sunset Views
Depending on your desert safari timing and duration, you can witness a first-hand look at the desert awakening to life or about to set against an ethereal setting. Want to catch up with both sunrise and sunset views? Sign up for an overnight desert safari.
Camel Ride
Step back in time as you enjoy a wobbly camel ride across the unparalleled sands. Apart from treating your eyes to the most unhindered views, it connects you with the region’s ancient past, when camels were the only transport mode to navigate the endless Arabian Desert.
Sandboarding, Quad Biking, Dune Buggy Ride, etc
You can choose a package with more desert-inspired activities. Test your balancing skills on the desert sand as you take to a sandboard or enjoy the chance to zoom across the sands in an easy-to-maneuver quad bike or dune buggy.
Cultural Activities
Prepare for a more meaningful connection with the desert and its culture and heritage as you participate in activities as fascinating as henna tattooing, Shisha smoking, and falconry.
BBQ Dining
A dining session is included in most evening and overnight desert safaris; it allows you to delve into the flavors of the delicious BBQ specialties amid a magical setting enveloped by sheer magnificence and tranquility.
Traditional Shows
A desert safari gives you a unique chance to immerse yourself in stunning traditional performances. Watch the marvelous belly dance and be amazed at the Tanura performer’s mind-bending circular movements.
Camping
It is one of the main highlights of an overnight desert safari, where you get the rare chance to camp beneath the star-studded desert sky. It is an indescribable experience to spend a night in a setting with nothing but isolated desert sands and creatures to give you company.
IMPORTANT THINGS AND TIPS TO KNOW
- The winter months, from November to April, are the best time to go on a desert safari. The climate will be chilly, though pleasant, during these months.
- For a hassle-free experience, book your desert safari in advance through an experienced desert safari company.
- Refrain from any wild activity during a desert safari, especially if you’re pregnant, have any chronic ailment, or have recently undergone surgery.
- You can choose a private desert safari for the most exclusive and personalized desert experience.
- If you don’t want to participate in intense activities as part of a desert safari, you can opt for a ‘Dinner in the Desert’ package, devoid of any actions.
- Wear comfortable cotton clothing on your desert trip, and complete your look with a comfortable pair of footwear. Don’t forget to carry a jacket or a shawl, as it can get freezing at night.
- Apply good-quality sunscreen lotion and wear sunglasses and a hat to shield your face, eyes, and skin from harmful UV rays.
CONCLUSION
Many overlook a desert safari in Dubai, considering its bleak, lifeless setting. But the reality is that it is full of life and has everything you need for an unforgettable outing during your holiday. It will surround you with the most captivating sightings, transporting you to an otherworldly landscape. Whether you are in Dubai for a day or a week, make sure this activity is at the top of your to-do list.
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