How to Travel to Dubai Desert Safari

Traveling to a Dubai Desert Safari offers a unique experience of the Arabian desert, including activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and enjoying a traditional Bedouin camp. Here’s how to plan and travel to a Dubai Desert Safari:

By Booking a Tour:

1. Choose a Reputable Tour Operator:

   • Research and select a reputable desert safari tour operator. Popular companies include Platinum Heritage, Arabian Adventures, and Desert Safari Dubai.

2. Book Your Safari:

   • Book your desert safari online through the tour operator’s website or through a travel agency. Choose from various packages like morning, evening, or overnight safaris.

3. Pick-up and Drop-off:

   • Most desert safari packages include pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a designated location in Dubai. Confirm the pick-up time and location when booking.

4. Meet Your Guide:

   • On the day of the safari, be ready at the designated pick-up location. The tour operator will typically provide a 4x4 vehicle and an experienced guide.

By Car (Self-Drive Option):

1. Rent a 4x4 Vehicle:

   • If you prefer a self-drive safari, rent a suitable 4x4 vehicle from a car rental service in Dubai. Ensure the vehicle is equipped for desert driving.

2. Plan Your Route:

   • Use a GPS or navigation app to plan your route to the desert. Popular starting points include the Al Awir area and the Dubai-Al Ain Road (E66).

3. Meet the Tour Guide:

   • Many tour operators offer a self-drive option where you can meet their guide at a pre-arranged desert meeting point. They will lead you to the camp and coordinate activities.

4. Follow Safety Guidelines:

   • Ensure you are familiar with desert driving safety guidelines. It’s advisable to travel in a convoy with other vehicles for safety.

By Public Transport (Limited Option):

1. Bus or Taxi to Desert Meeting Point:

   • Public transport options are limited, but you can take a taxi or bus to a desert meeting point if arranged with your tour operator.

2. Join the Tour:

   • From the meeting point, join the desert safari convoy led by the tour operator.

Activities in the Desert Safari:

• Dune Bashing: Enjoy an exhilarating ride over sand dunes in a 4x4 vehicle driven by an experienced driver.
• Camel Riding: Experience a traditional camel ride across the desert sands.
• Sandboarding: Slide down the dunes on a sandboard, similar to snowboarding.
• Quad Biking: Ride an ATV over the dunes (usually available as an optional activity).
• Bedouin Camp: Visit a traditional Bedouin-style camp where you can enjoy activities such as henna painting, shisha smoking, and dressing in traditional Arabic attire.
• Evening Entertainment: Enjoy a BBQ dinner buffet, along with cultural performances like belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and fire shows.
• Stargazing: Some tours offer the opportunity to stargaze in the clear desert sky.

Visiting Tips:

• Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and closed-toe shoes. Bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring water to stay hydrated, especially in the hot desert environment.
• Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Camera: Bring a camera to capture the stunning desert landscapes and memorable moments.
• Health Considerations: If you have any medical conditions or are prone to motion sickness, inform the tour operator in advance.

By following these steps, you can easily plan and travel to a Dubai Desert Safari and enjoy a memorable adventure in the Arabian desert.