Dubai, known for its luxurious lifestyle and thrilling experiences, offers visitors the chance to explore its magnificent desert landscapes. One of the most popular ways to experience the desert is by booking a Dubai desert safari, an adventure that offers thrilling activities, cultural experiences, and relaxation in the golden sands. However, before booking your safari, it’s essential to understand the Dubai desert safari prices to make sure you're getting the best deal for your desired experience.
In this guide, we will break down the Dubai desert safari prices, covering everything from basic safaris to luxury packages, so you can choose the right tour based on your budget and preferences.
What Affects Dubai Desert Safari Prices?
Several factors influence the Dubai desert safari prices, making them vary widely depending on the type of tour you choose. Understanding these factors will help you decide on the best safari package for you.
1. Type of Safari
The Dubai desert safari prices can vary depending on the type of safari experience you select. Basic safaris tend to be more affordable, while luxury and private tours come at a premium. Here's a quick overview:
Basic Desert Safaris: These typically include dune bashing, camel rides, and a traditional BBQ dinner. They are generally more affordable and range from AED 150 to AED 300 per person.
Luxury Desert Safaris: A premium option with private vehicles, exclusive camp setups, gourmet dining, and additional activities. Prices for luxury safaris range from AED 600 to AED 1,500 per person.
Private Desert Safaris: These personalized experiences cost significantly more because of the exclusivity and customization options. Prices can range from AED 1,000 to AED 3,000 per person, depending on the inclusions and level of luxury.
Overnight Desert Safaris: Spending the night in the desert with dinner, stargazing, and breakfast included can cost between AED 500 to AED 1,200 per person, based on the level of accommodation.
2. Inclusions in the Tour
The more activities and services included in the tour, the higher the price. Here are some common inclusions that can impact the Dubai desert safari prices:
Dune Bashing: Almost every tour includes dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle. While this is a standard inclusion, it can still affect the price based on the vehicle used (standard SUVs vs. luxury vehicles).
Camel Rides: Most safaris offer camel rides, but in premium packages, this might be private or more personalized.
Entertainment: Standard tours offer traditional cultural performances like belly dancing and Tanoura dance. Premium experiences often feature exclusive shows and private performances, which will increase the price.
Food and Beverages: BBQ dinners, buffet meals, and gourmet dining can affect the price. The more lavish the spread, the higher the cost.
Photography and Souvenirs: Some tours offer photographers and souvenirs as part of the experience, which can also influence the pricing.
3. Duration of the Safari
The Dubai desert safari prices may also be influenced by the duration of the tour. While basic tours generally last about 4 to 6 hours, more extensive experiences like overnight safaris or private tours can last from 6 hours to a full day. Longer tours typically cost more, so it’s important to choose one that fits both your schedule and budget.
4. Group vs. Private Tours
Group tours tend to be more affordable, with prices typically lower than private tours. A private safari, with a customized itinerary and personal services, can cost significantly more, as you’re paying for exclusivity and personalized attention.
Comparing Dubai Desert Safari Prices for Popular Tours
Let’s compare the pricing for some of the most popular Dubai desert safari tours available.
1. Classic Desert Safari
A classic desert safari is a great introduction to the Dubai desert. This package generally includes dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, a BBQ dinner, and cultural performances.
Price: AED 150 to AED 300 per person
Duration: 4-6 hours
Highlights: Dune bashing, camel ride, BBQ dinner, traditional entertainment (belly dance, Tanoura dance).
2. Luxury Desert Safari
For those looking for a more exclusive and comfortable desert experience, the luxury safari offers private vehicles, VIP seating, gourmet meals, and high-end entertainment options.
Price: AED 600 to AED 1,500 per person
Duration: 6-7 hours
Highlights: Private vehicle, exclusive camp, gourmet dinner, VIP entertainment, luxury amenities.
3. Overnight Desert Safari
An overnight safari provides the opportunity to camp under the stars in a Bedouin-style desert camp, with dinner and breakfast included. This experience is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the desert landscape.
Price: AED 500 to AED 1,200 per person
Duration: 12-14 hours (overnight)
Highlights: Dune bashing, camel rides, stargazing, Bedouin camp, BBQ dinner, breakfast.
4. Private Desert Safari
For the ultimate experience, a private safari gives you the freedom to tailor your itinerary and enjoy exclusive services. This is perfect for couples, families, or groups celebrating a special occasion.
Price: AED 1,000 to AED 3,000 per person
Duration: Customizable (usually 6-7 hours)
Highlights: Customized itinerary, private vehicle, personal driver/guide, exclusive desert camp.
5. Sunset Desert Safari
This is a shorter tour that focuses on experiencing the desert during the most magical time of the day—the sunset. This package includes dune bashing, camel rides, and a BBQ dinner as the sun sets over the dunes.
Price: AED 200 to AED 400 per person
Duration: 4-5 hours
Highlights: Sunset photography, dune bashing, camel rides, BBQ dinner.
How to Get the Best Dubai Desert Safari Prices
While Dubai desert safari prices can vary widely, there are several ways to get the best value for your money:
1. Book in Advance
Many tour companies offer discounts for early bookings. Booking in advance ensures that you get a better price and guarantees your spot on the tour.
2. Look for Group Discounts
If you’re traveling with a group, many operators offer group discounts that can significantly lower the price per person.
3. Check for Seasonal Offers
During certain seasons, like the off-peak summer months, you may find discounts or special offers on desert safari tours. Be sure to keep an eye out for seasonal deals.
4. Compare Prices
Don’t settle for the first price you see. Comparing prices from different tour operators can help you find the best deal for your preferred safari experience.
5. All-Inclusive Packages
Look for all-inclusive packages that include transportation, food, activities, and entertainment. This can be more cost-effective than booking each activity separately.
FAQs About Dubai Desert Safari Prices
What are the average Dubai desert safari prices? The prices range from AED 150 to AED 3,000, depending on the type of safari, duration, and inclusions.
What’s the difference between a classic safari and a luxury safari? A luxury safari typically includes private vehicles, gourmet meals, exclusive camps, and personalized services, making it more expensive than a classic safari.
Are Dubai desert safari prices per person? Yes, most prices are per person, but private tours are charged based on the number of people in your group.
Are there any discounts available for large groups? Yes, many companies offer discounts for group bookings, so it’s worth checking for special rates.
What’s included in the basic desert safari price? The basic package typically includes dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner.
Do the prices change for overnight safaris? Yes, overnight safaris tend to cost more due to the extended duration and overnight accommodations.
Are meals included in the Dubai desert safari prices? Most safari tours include meals, such as a BBQ dinner or buffet, depending on the package you choose.
What’s the best way to get the best price for a desert safari? Booking in advance and comparing different tour operators can help you get the best price.
What is the peak season for Dubai desert safaris? The peak season is typically from November to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for desert activities.
Do luxury desert safaris offer private camps? Yes, luxury safaris often include private desert camps with enhanced privacy and exclusive services.
What time of day is the best for a desert safari? The best time is usually in the late afternoon for sunset safaris or early morning for a cooler experience.
Can I book a private desert safari for a special event? Yes, private safaris can be customized for special events, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate gatherings.
Are there options for solo travelers in the desert safari tours? Yes, many tours cater to solo travelers, offering group tours or private packages.
Do the prices include transportation from hotels? Most safari tours offer hotel pick-up and drop-off as part of the package, especially in the classic and luxury safaris.
Are there any additional fees for the Dubai desert safari? Some activities, like professional photography or special souvenirs, may come at an additional cost.
Dubai desert safari prices
