A visit to Dubai wouldn’t be complete without exploring its vast, mesmerizing desert. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of high-speed adventures across the dunes or the serene beauty of the desert landscape, a desert safari in Dubai is the perfect way to experience both. The Dubai desert offers a playground for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike, blending modern adventure with ancient traditions.
With so much to do, it can be hard to choose what activities to focus on during your desert safari. But don’t worry – we’ve narrowed it down to the top five activities you absolutely can’t miss. Get ready to strap in, saddle up, and soak in the wonders of Dubai’s iconic desert.
1. Dune Bashing – An Adrenaline Rush Like No Other
Let’s kick things off with the crown jewel of the desert safari Dubai experience: dune bashing. If you think driving through sand is slow and uneventful, think again. In reality, dune bashing is anything but! It’s a thrilling, high-energy ride that will have you gripping your seat as your driver expertly navigates the towering dunes in a 4×4 vehicle.
Imagine being strapped into a powerful jeep safari Dubai, bouncing and sliding down steep dunes, feeling your stomach drop as the vehicle plunges down the side of a massive sand hill. The drivers, who are professionals and well-versed in handling the desert terrain, make this experience both thrilling and safe. This off-road adventure is perfect for adrenaline junkies who want to feel the rush of speeding up and down the ever-shifting landscape of the desert.
During the ride, you’ll experience a mix of smooth glides, sharp turns, and steep drops, all while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the endless dunes. The unpredictability of the terrain is what makes this activity so exciting – every twist and turn feels like a new challenge.
Tip: If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s best to take some precautions (such as light meals and motion sickness tablets) before embarking on this high-speed ride. And don’t forget to buckle up!
2. Sandboarding – Surfing the Dunes
If you’ve ever wanted to try snowboarding but prefer warmer weather, sandboarding is your chance to carve down dunes under the Dubai sun. Similar to snowboarding, sandboarding involves sliding down the steep, soft dunes on a board, but instead of snow, you’re gliding across golden sand. This activity offers a unique challenge, as controlling the board on the soft, shifting sand requires balance and coordination – but that’s part of the fun!
The best part about sandboarding is that it’s suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned boarder or a complete beginner, you’ll be able to give it a go. And if you fall, no worries – the soft, cushiony sand provides a much gentler landing than snow or pavement. You’ll get the hang of it after a few tries, and before you know it, you’ll be racing down the dunes like a pro.
Many desert safari packages include sandboarding as an optional activity, so make sure to check if it’s available when booking your safari. Even if you’ve never been on a board in your life, sandboarding is a must-try experience that’s as exhilarating as it is fun.
Tip: Wear light, breathable clothing that allows you to move freely, and make sure to have your camera ready to capture some epic action shots of your descent!
3. Camel Riding – Embrace the Traditional Way of Travel
After all the heart-pounding excitement of dune bashing and sandboarding, it’s time to slow things down with a more traditional desert activity: camel riding. Camels, often referred to as the “ships of the desert,” have been used for centuries as the primary mode of transportation across the Arabian deserts. Riding a camel gives you a taste of what it must have been like for the Bedouins who once traveled across these same sands.
This peaceful and serene activity allows you to take in the beauty of the desert from a different perspective. As your camel leisurely makes its way across the dunes, you’ll have the opportunity to appreciate the vast, quiet landscape, with nothing but the soft crunch of sand underfoot and the gentle sway of the camel to accompany you.
Camel rides are usually short, lasting around 10 to 15 minutes, but they provide a memorable and authentic experience that connects you to the region’s rich cultural history. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to snap a few photos of you atop one of these iconic creatures, with the golden dunes stretching out behind you.
Tip: If it’s your first time riding a camel, don’t worry – they are gentle animals, and the ride is very smooth. Be sure to hold on tight as the camel rises to its feet, as this can be a bit wobbly!
4. Falconry – Witness the Majesty of a Desert Tradition
One of the most unique aspects of a Dubai desert safari is the opportunity to witness the ancient sport of falconry. Falcons have been an important part of Bedouin culture for centuries, traditionally used for hunting small game in the desert. Today, falconry is a celebrated sport, and many desert safaris include a falconry show where you can watch these majestic birds in action.
During a falconry demonstration, a skilled falconer will showcase the incredible speed, agility, and precision of these birds of prey as they soar through the air, diving at incredible speeds to catch their target. The falconer may also share insights into the training process and the important role that falcons have played in the desert’s history.
Some VIP desert safari packages even offer the chance to hold and interact with the falcons, giving you an up-close look at these fascinating birds. This is an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in wildlife and culture, as it allows you to connect with a centuries-old tradition that is still very much alive in the region today.
Tip: If you’re a photography enthusiast, falconry shows offer some incredible photo opportunities. Try capturing the falcon mid-flight as it swoops down to snatch its prey – it’s a sight you won’t forget!
5. Traditional Bedouin Dinner – A Feast Under the Stars
No desert safari is complete without indulging in a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. After a day of thrilling activities and exploration, you’ll arrive at a desert camp, where a delicious BBQ dinner awaits. The camp is set up to resemble a traditional Bedouin camp, with low seating arrangements on plush cushions and tables under large, open-air tents.
The dinner is a feast of Arabic delights, typically including a variety of grilled meats (such as lamb and chicken), fresh salads, hummus, Arabic bread, and rice dishes. For dessert, you’ll enjoy traditional sweets like baklava and fresh dates, along with fragrant Arabic coffee or tea. The flavors are rich and authentic, offering a taste of the local cuisine that is sure to satisfy.
But dinner is just the beginning. As you enjoy your meal, you’ll be treated to live cultural performances, including belly dancing, Tanoura dancing, and even fire shows. Belly dancers move gracefully to the rhythm of Arabic music, captivating the audience with their intricate movements. The Tanoura dance, a traditional Egyptian performance, features a dancer spinning in a vibrant, multi-colored skirt, symbolizing the universe in constant motion. And if you’re lucky, the night might end with a fire show, where performers expertly handle flaming torches in a dazzling display of skill and danger.
The combination of delicious food, lively entertainment, and the quiet beauty of the desert at night creates a magical atmosphere that makes for the perfect end to your desert safari adventure.
Tip: Be sure to try the shisha (hookah) after dinner for a true taste of Middle Eastern culture. Many camps offer a variety of flavors, and it’s a relaxing way to wind down after a day of excitement.
Final Thoughts – The Ultimate Desert Safari Experience
The desert safari in Dubai is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that blends heart-pounding excitement with cultural immersion. From the thrill of dune bashing to the peacefulness of a camel ride, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Arabian desert. Whether you’re soaring down dunes on a sandboard or enjoying a traditional meal under the stars, the activities on offer make this an unforgettable experience.
So, when you plan your next trip to Dubai, make sure a desert safari is at the top of your list. You’ll leave with memories (and maybe a bit of sand) that will last a lifetime.
