Cost Of Desert Safari in Dubai

August 31, 2024 Zahidali

So, you’re planning a trip to Dubai, and you’ve heard all about the must-do activity—Desert Safari. I mean, who wouldn’t want to feel like Lawrence of Arabia for a day, right? But before you start daydreaming about gliding down those golden dunes or snapping that perfect sunset photo, you’re probably asking yourself, “How much is this adventure going to cost me?”

Well, my friend, buckle up because we’re about to take a deep dive into the desert (not literally, of course) to find out exactly what you’re paying for when you book a Desert Safari in Dubai.

Understanding the Desert Safari Experience

Alright, let’s start by breaking down what you’re signing up for. A Desert Safari in Dubai isn’t just a bumpy ride through the sand; it’s an all-inclusive package of thrills, culture, and, let’s face it, a little bit of bragging rights.

Different Types of Desert Safaris

Now, not all safaris are created equal. You’ve got you:

Morning Desert Safari: For the early birds who like to catch the worm—or in this case, the sunrise over the desert. Think of it as a caffeine-free way to wake up!
Evening Desert Safari: This is the big kahuna, the one everyone raves about. You get a mix of adventure and relaxation, plus a dinner under the stars. Not too shabby, right?
Overnight Desert Safari: Feeling adventurous? Why not sleep under the stars and pretend you’re in a Bedouin camp (minus the camels snoring next to you)?
Private Desert Safari: For those who like to keep things exclusive. It’s just you, the driver, and endless dunes—like your own personal playground.

If you want to know in more detail about desert safari here is our detailed guide: Your Ultimate Guide to Desert Safari Dubai

Factors Affecting the Cost of Desert Safari

You’re probably wondering, “What makes one safari more expensive than another?” Good question! The cost of a Desert Safari can vary widely based on several factors.

Type of Safari (Morning, Evening, Overnight)

Morning Safaris are usually the least expensive, starting at around $40 to $50 per person. Why? Fewer frills, no meals, and you’re back at your hotel before the sun gets too high.
Evening Safaris are the most popular, and they come with all the bells and whistles—dune bashing, camel rides, henna tattoos, and a BBQ dinner. Expect to pay between $60 and $100 per person.
Overnight Safaris are for the real adventurers. With prices ranging from $100 to $150, you’re paying for the experience of sleeping in the desert (and waking up to a sunrise you’ll never forget).

Inclusions and Activities

The more activities included, the higher the price tag. Want to try sandboarding, quad biking, or a falcon show? Be prepared to pay extra. These add-ons can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 each.

1. Duration of the Safari

A shorter safari (like the morning version) will naturally be cheaper than a full-day or overnight experience. You get what you pay for in terms of time spent exploring the desert.

2. Group Size and Private Tours

Sharing a ride with other tourists? That’s the budget-friendly option. If you want a private tour (because who doesn’t want to feel like a VIP?), be ready to shell out a bit more. Private safaris can range from $200 to $500 depending on how many people you’re bringing along for the ride.

Average Cost of Desert Safari in Dubai

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk numbers. Here’s a quick rundown:

Type of Desert Safari	Price Range (Per Person)	What’s Included
Morning Desert Safari	$40 – $50	Dune bashing, sandboarding, sunrise views.
Evening Desert Safari	$60 – $100	Dune bashing, camel ride, BBQ dinner, entertainment (belly dancing, fire show), henna tattoos.
Overnight Desert Safari	$100 – $150	Evening safari activities, overnight camping, breakfast, sunrise views.
Private Desert Safari	$200 – $500	Customized itinerary, exclusive vehicle and guide, personalized experience, gourmet meals (optional).
Budget Desert Safari	$35 – $50	Basic activities like dune bashing and camel rides, limited amenities.
Luxury Desert Safari	$150 – $300+	Premium experiences, gourmet meals, high-end vehicles, and exclusive camp settings.
Optional Activities	$20 – $60 (add-ons)	Quad biking, dune buggy rides, falcon show (prices vary depending on the activity and duration).

Budget Safaris: These are your no-frills options, perfect if you’re on a tight budget. Prices range from $35 to $50.
Mid-Range Safaris: These offer a good balance of price and experience, typically costing between $60 and $80.
Luxury Safaris: Want to splurge? Luxury safaris, complete with gourmet meals and exclusive experiences, can cost anywhere from $150 to $300 or more.

Breaking Down the Cost by Safari Type

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty, shall we? Here’s what you can expect for each type of safari.

1. Morning Desert Safari

Expect to pay around $40 to $50 per person.

What to Expect: You’ll kick off your day with a thrilling ride over the dunes. Think of it as the desert’s version of a roller coaster, minus the safety harness. Afterward, you might get to try your hand at sandboarding—because who doesn’t want to feel like a pro surfer on sand?

2. Evening Desert Safari

Prices range from $60 to $100 per person.

What to Expect: This is where the magic happens. You’ll start with some dune bashing, followed by a serene camel ride. After that, you’ll get to enjoy a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. Oh, and did I mention the belly dancing? It’s a whole vibe.

3. Overnight Desert Safari

Plan to spend between $100 and $150 per person.

What to Expect: After a full evening of desert fun, you’ll settle into your camp for the night. Picture yourself around a campfire, enjoying the peace and quiet of the desert night. In the morning, you’ll wake up to a breathtaking sunrise that makes the early wake-up call totally worth it.

4. Private and VIP Desert Safaris

This can range from $200 to $500 depending on the level of luxury and exclusivity.

What to Expect: Want to feel like royalty? A private or VIP safari is the way to go. You’ll have your own vehicle, your own guide, and an experience tailored just for you. It’s the ultimate way to see the desert without any distractions.

Additional Costs to Consider

But wait, there’s more! Here are a few extras you might not have thought of.

Optional Activities: Love adventure? You might want to add quad biking or dune buggy rides to your safari. These can cost anywhere from $30 to $60 depending on the duration and the provider.
Food and Beverages: Most evening and overnight safaris include dinner, but if you want premium beverages or special dietary options, you might need to pay extra. Expect to add another $10 to $20 per person for these upgrades.
Tips and Gratuities: It’s always a good idea to tip your driver or guide, especially if they’ve gone out of their way to make your experience memorable. A tip of around 10-15% of the safari cost is standard.

What to Look for in a Desert Safari Package

Not all desert safaris are created equal. Here’s what to consider when choosing the right one for you.

Safety and Quality of Service: Safety first, folks! Make sure the company you choose has a good safety record. Check if the vehicles are well-maintained and if the drivers are experienced.
Reviews and Testimonials: Don’t just take the company’s word for it—see what other travelers have to say. Websites like TripAdvisor and Google Reviews are great places to start.
Customization Options: Want something a little different? Some companies offer customizable packages, so you can tailor your experience to your interests. Whether it’s adding a romantic dinner for two or skipping the camel ride (because let’s be honest, they’re not the most comfortable creatures), customization can make your safari extra special.

Top Desert Safari Companies in Dubai

Let’s talk about the best in the business. Here are a few top-rated companies to consider:

Private Desert Safari: Known for their eco-friendly and luxury safaris.
Arabian Adventures: A big name with a reputation for great service.
OceanAir Travels: Often praised for their friendly guides and comprehensive packages.

Conclusion

So there you have it—everything you need to know about the cost of Desert Safari in Dubai. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge, there’s a safari out there with your name on it. Just remember to book early, choose the right package, and most importantly, have fun! After all, it’s not every day you get to play in the sands of Dubai.