Desert Safari Dubai Tickets: What You Need to Know
Dubai’s Desert Safari is an adventure that blends thrill, culture, and the beauty of the Arabian Desert into one unforgettable experience. But with various packages and operators to choose from, navigating the ticket booking process can seem daunting. This article breaks down the key details you need to know before securing your spot on this must-do excursion.
Why Book a Desert Safari in Dubai?
A Desert Safari offers a unique way to experience Dubai beyond its skyscrapers and shopping malls. It’s a journey into the vast desert where you can engage in activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding. The safari also provides an opportunity to connect with Emirati culture through traditional food, music, and dance at a Bedouin-style camp.
Understanding Your Options
When it comes to booking your Desert Safari, you’ll find several options available:
- Standard Evening Safari: The most popular choice, this package includes dune bashing, a camel ride, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner with live performances at the desert camp. It typically lasts around 6 hours, starting in the late afternoon and ending at night.
- Luxury Safari: For those looking for a more upscale experience, luxury safaris offer additional amenities like private transfers, gourmet dining, and extended activities such as falconry or a hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
- Family-Friendly Safari: If you’re traveling with children, some operators offer safaris tailored for families, with gentler dune bashing and kid-friendly entertainment.
- Overnight Safari: This option allows you to extend your desert experience overnight, sleeping in a tent under the stars and waking up to a traditional breakfast in the morning.
Where to Purchase Tickets
Desert Safari tickets can be purchased through various channels:
- Tour Operator Websites: Most operators have websites where you can book tickets directly. This allows you to compare packages and prices, ensuring you get the best deal for your needs.
- Travel Agencies: If you prefer to book through a travel agent, many agencies offer Desert Safari packages as part of their Dubai tours.
- Hotel Bookings: Your hotel in Dubai can also arrange Desert Safari tickets, often providing additional perks like pick-up directly from the hotel lobby.
What’s Included in a Desert Safari Ticket?
A typical Desert Safari ticket includes:
- Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Most tours provide transportation to and from your hotel in an air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle.
- Dune Bashing: A thrilling drive over the desert dunes with a skilled driver.
- Sandboarding: The chance to slide down the dunes on a sandboard.
- Camel Ride: A short but memorable ride on a camel.
- BBQ Dinner: A buffet-style dinner featuring a variety of Middle Eastern dishes, with vegetarian options available.
- Live Entertainment: Enjoy traditional performances like belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and a fire show.
- Cultural Experiences: Activities such as henna painting, shisha smoking, and dressing in traditional Arabic clothing.
How Much Do Tickets Cost?
The cost of Desert Safari tickets can vary widely depending on the package you choose. Standard evening safaris typically range from AED 150 to AED 300 per person, while luxury and private options can be significantly more expensive. Family packages may offer discounts for children, and some operators provide deals if you book in advance or as part of a group.
Making the Most of Your Desert Safari
- Check Inclusions: Always review what’s included in your ticket before booking to ensure it meets your expectations. Some cheaper tickets may exclude certain activities or charge extra for services like quad biking or falconry.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear light, breathable clothing suitable for the desert climate. If you’re taking an evening safari, bring a light jacket as the temperature can drop after sunset.
- Consider Motion Sickness: Dune bashing can be intense, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, take appropriate precautions before the ride.
- Plan for Photography: The desert provides stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunset. Bring a good camera or smartphone and ensure it’s fully charged.