Dubai’s desert safari is one of those experiences that gets passed around in travel circles like a secret — a thrilling mix of adventure, culture, and food. But for first-time visitors, one question often stands out:
“What’s actually included in a desert safari in Dubai?”
The answer depends on the type of safari — but there are core elements almost every package offers. Here's what you can realistically expect in 2025.
Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off
Most desert safaris begin with a 4x4 pickup from your hotel or residence in Dubai or Sharjah. Depending on the package:
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Shared Transfers – Cost-effective, slower due to multiple stops
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Private Transfers – Faster, more comfortable, and VIP-style
Pick-up usually begins between 2:30 PM and 4:00 PM for evening safaris and around 7:00 AM for morning trips.
Dune Bashing (The Main Attraction)
This is the thrill-seeker’s favorite:
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A professional driver takes you across red or golden sand dunes in a powerful 4x4.
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Duration: 20 to 45 minutes, depending on package
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Area: Lahbab (red dunes) or Al Awir (golden dunes)
Optional add-ons include:
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Sandboarding
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Dune Buggy or Quad Bike (usually extra charge)
Camel Ride
Yes — every good desert safari includes at least one short camel ride, just enough for photos and a taste of Bedouin tradition. Some VIP or private packages allow longer camel treks.
Sunset Photography Stop
Evening desert safaris usually include a stop at a scenic high dune right before sunset. It’s one of the best parts of the trip:
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Capture the desert turning gold and pink
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Most drivers help take photos or videos for you
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Dune-top views are Insta-worthy every time
Desert Camp Experience
After dune bashing, you’ll arrive at a traditional Bedouin-style desert camp. Here’s what’s usually included:
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Arabic Tea & Dates (Welcome Drink)
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Henna Painting (for ladies)
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Traditional Dress Try-On (for photo ops)
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Shisha Lounge Access
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Falcon Interaction (in premium packages)
VIP camps offer private seating, waiter service, and more relaxed surroundings.
BBQ Buffet Dinner
One of the highlights — the BBQ dinner under the stars, typically including:
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Grilled meats (chicken, lamb kebabs)
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Vegetarian options
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Rice, salads, and Arabic bread
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Unlimited soft drinks, tea, and water
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Desserts (usually Luqaimat or fruits)
Premium packages may include seafood, upgraded menus, or even table service.
Live Entertainment
Evening camps include a full line-up of traditional and modern shows:
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Tanoura Dance (whirling dervish performance)
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Belly Dance Show
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Fire Show (fan favorite!)
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Some VIP camps add: Oud players, LED dances, or themed performances
Facilities and Comfort
Camps also include:
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Separate clean toilets (men & women)
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Prayer area
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First aid, on-site staff
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Safe parking or resting area
Optional Add-Ons (Paid Extras):
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Quad biking
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Dune buggy rental
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Private falcon photo sessions
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VIP Majlis seating
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Alcohol (in licensed camps)
Recommended Resource
If you're comparing operators or wondering which safari includes what, this complete guide to desert safaris in Dubai is worth checking. It breaks down all the differences between standard, VIP, morning, evening, and private options — super helpful if you’re planning your first desert trip.
Final Word
So, what is included in a desert safari in Dubai?
A mix of adventure, tradition, food, and spectacle — all wrapped in the timeless beauty of the Arabian desert.
The real trick is choosing the right package for your travel style — because the desert will always deliver.