Dubai is a city known for its dazzling skyline, luxury shopping, and world-class attractions, but there’s one experience that stands out for those looking to connect with the beauty of nature—the evening desert safari. This unique adventure offers a blend of thrilling activities, cultural experiences, and delicious food, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Arabian Desert. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the evening desert safari is a must-do activity during your time in Dubai.
What Is an Evening Desert Safari?
An evening desert safari in Dubai is a guided tour into the vast desert landscapes surrounding the city, typically timed to coincide with the coolness of the late afternoon and evening. The safari usually begins with a pick-up from your hotel or a designated location in Dubai. From there, you’ll journey out into the desert in a 4×4 vehicle, where your adventure will begin with thrilling dune bashing, a popular activity that involves driving at high speeds across the sand dunes. The excitement doesn’t end there, though. As the sun starts to set, you’ll experience a serene desert sunset followed by a traditional cultural experience at a desert camp, complete with a BBQ dinner and live entertainment.
What to Expect During the Safari
Dune Bashing: One of the highlights of the evening desert safari is the dune bashing experience. After being picked up in a rugged 4×4, you’ll be driven through the sand dunes at high speeds. The driver, a trained expert in dune driving, will skillfully navigate the sandy terrain, giving you an adrenaline-pumping ride that feels like a roller coaster. This experience is a unique way to see the desert landscape from a thrilling perspective.
Camel Ride: After the excitement of dune bashing, you’ll be given the opportunity to ride a camel, a traditional mode of transport for the Bedouin people. Riding a camel through the desert is a peaceful and cultural experience, allowing you to take in the stunning views while feeling connected to the region’s history. It’s also a perfect photo opportunity, with the desert expanse stretching endlessly in the background.
Sandboarding: For the more adventurous, sandboarding is an optional activity during most evening desert safaris. Just like snowboarding, but on sand dunes, sandboarding allows you to glide down the dunes and experience the desert in a completely different way. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, it’s an activity that’s fun for everyone.
Desert Sunset: One of the most serene moments of the desert safari is watching the sunset over the dunes. The vast desert transforms into a glowing golden landscape as the sun dips below the horizon, creating an unforgettable scene. Your guide will help you capture this magical moment with photos, and it’s a great way to slow down and appreciate the beauty of nature.
Cultural Experience and Entertainment: After the outdoor activities, guests are transported to a traditional desert camp, where the real cultural experience begins. The camp is set up to replicate the tents used by the Bedouins, offering a rustic yet comfortable setting with cozy seating areas, carpets, and low tables. Here, you’ll have the chance to experience traditional Arabian hospitality, including the serving of Arabic coffee, dates, and other local treats.
As the evening continues, entertainment will begin. You’ll be treated to a range of traditional performances, such as belly dancing, Tanoura dance (a mesmerizing spin dance), and fire shows, which add a layer of excitement to the evening. These performances are a perfect way to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the UAE.
BBQ Dinner: The highlight for many is the delicious BBQ dinner. Set under the stars, the buffet typically includes a range of Middle Eastern and international dishes. Expect to find freshly grilled meats such as chicken, lamb, and kebabs, as well as rice, salads, dips like hummus and baba ghanoush, and freshly baked flatbreads. For those with a sweet tooth, desserts like baklava and Arabic sweets are often served to finish off the meal. Soft drinks and water are included in most packages, and some higher-end packages may also offer shisha or alcoholic beverages.
Price of an Evening Desert Safari in Dubai
The price of an evening desert safari can vary depending on the type of package, inclusions, and the time of year. On average, a standard evening desert safari will cost between AED 150 and AED 250 (approximately $40 to $68 USD) per person. This typically includes the pick-up and drop-off, dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, BBQ dinner, and entertainment. These packages offer great value for money, especially for those looking for a traditional desert experience.
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, premium or VIP packages are available, and prices for these range from AED 300 to AED 600 ($82 to $165 USD) or higher. Premium packages typically offer private transport, priority seating at the desert camp, upgraded food options, and additional amenities such as alcoholic drinks and personalized service. Some exclusive experiences may also include falconry displays or private photographers.
During peak tourist seasons, such as from October to April, prices may be slightly higher due to increased demand. In contrast, the summer months (June to September) can sometimes offer lower prices as the temperatures soar and outdoor activities become less popular. It’s always a good idea to book your safari in advance, especially during the busy season, to secure the best rates and ensure availability.
Why Choose an Evening Desert Safari?
An evening desert safari in Dubai is a unique way to experience the desert and the culture of the UAE. It offers a combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, making it suitable for people of all ages. Whether you’re seeking thrilling activities like dune bashing and sandboarding or simply want to relax and enjoy a peaceful sunset in the desert, there’s something for everyone. The evening safari is perfect for couples, families, and even solo travelers looking to explore the beauty of Dubai’s natural surroundings.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the evening desert safari in Dubai offers a combination of thrilling adventure, cultural experiences, and delicious food, making it one of the most popular activities in the region. The price varies depending on the type of experience you want, but whether you opt for a standard or luxury package, the memories you create will be priceless. From the excitement of dune bashing to the serenity of watching the desert sunset, this adventure is a must-do for anyone visiting Dubai.
