Known for its flashy high-rises, high-end shopping and entertainment, Dubai, the glitzy city of the United Arab Emirates, was the titular international city of the world. But behind the contemporary wonders of the city is an unspoiled beauty waiting to be discovered that stands in stark contrast to the futuristic skyline; the Arabian Desert. A desert safari is one of the most thrilling and culturally enlightening experiences that visitors can take in Dubai. The visit to the land of Golden Dunes creates a memorable experience to experience the unique Arabian culture, exciting adventure sports and adventure in an endless desert.
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Beyond the city limits, the Arabian Desert is wildly beautiful with golden sands, vast dunes, and a serenity that is hard to find anywhere else. The Bedouin people have lived in this expansive area for centuries, with their profound sense of connection to the land demonstrated through the cultural experiences included in a desert safari Dubai. From the adrenaline junkie to the escape seeker, a desert safari in Dubai has something for everyone.
Types of Desert Safaris
Morning Safari
Morning desert safari is a great option for morning people. The experience usually begins during sunrise with wondrous sights as the first rays of the sun reflect on the sand dunes. Adventure enthusiasts will want to take one of the exhilarating morning safaris, which are packed with dune bashing, sandboarding and quad biking. With fewer tourists, it also offers a more tranquil, intimate experience of the desert.
Evening Safari
Visitors love the evening desert safari the most. With a mix of adventure, entertainment, and traditional Arabian hospitality, it runs from late afternoon until late evening. This includes dune bashing on powerful 4x4s, camel rides and an idyllic setting in front of a stunning desert sunset for photos. Evenings at the camp sizzle with cultural activities such as belly dancing, Tanoura shows, and fire performances. Lines form as a sumptuous BBQ dinner of eclectic Middle Eastern cuisine wraps up the day.
Overnight Safari
The evening desert safari allows you to experience the shimmering sands of the desert at night and for those feeling adventurous, there is even an overnight desert safari as you sleep under the serene Arabian sky! After a night of activities, guests can sleep in tents that have been set up in local Bedouin style, close to the local stars in the desert sky. There is nothing quite like waking up in the morning to a scenic sunrise with a cup of Arabic coffee.
Thrilling Activities to Enjoy
Dune Bashing
Dune bashing is also one of the most exciting parts of a desert safari, as you drive (at different speeds) over sand dunes in a 4×4. [Highly skilled drivers weave through the changing dunes, creating a heart-pounding, roller-coaster-like ride that proves unique for all guests.
Sandboarding
Say it with me: Like snowboarding, sandboarding features daredevils gliding down huge sand dunes on a specific board. This entertaining and easy-to-do activity is a favorite among visitors of all ages.
Camel Riding
Camels are known as the “ships of the desert” and have a long history in Arabian culture. Riding a camel offers a distinct view of the desert, allowing travelers to see the area as the Bedouins did.
Quad Biking
If your idea of heading out on an adventure is to take control, go for quad biking. These roving machines give the opportunity for riders to discover the desert at their own time, twisting through the sands for a unique thrill.
Falconry
Falconry is an integral part of Emirati heritage and is often demonstrated on desert safaris. You can watch these beautiful birds of prey in action, and even handle and interact with them.
Cultural Experiences
A desert safari is not only about adventure but also a deep cultural experience. Traditional Bedouin camps offer an authentic space where visitors can enjoy Arabic hospitality. Guests are invited to wear traditional Emirati dress, have henna painting done and smoke traditional shisha (flavored tobacco). Live entertainment also adds some spice to the evening, with both Tanoura dance, a mesmerizing Sufi-inspired performance, and belly dancing included in the safari.
Delicious Arabian Cuisine
The BBQ buffet dinner after the desert safari is one of the top attractions, as it comes with a wide range of Middle Eastern food. A meal that is a feast for the senses, with grilled meats, fragrant rice dishes, fresh salads and delicious desserts. Guests can also enjoy traditional Arabic coffee and sample dates, a mainstay of Emirati culture.
Important Safari Tips to Enjoy Your Safari
Dress for the Weather: Pack light, breathable clothing for the desert temperatures. Footwear that handles well in the sand is also suggested.
Stay Hydrated — The desert heat is no joke, and it’s important to drink lots of water.
Photography: The desert has so many picturesque photo spots, from golden sands to sunsets.
Follow the Safety Guidelines: It could be any activity like dune bashing or quad biking, you need to follow the safety guidelines given by your tour operator.
Book in Advance: Since desert safaris are extremely popular, it is always a good idea to book in advance to ensure availability and the best experience.
More Words
Dubai desert safari is not the ordinary excursion; rather, it is a beautiful experience packed with excitement and cultural & natural beauty. The Arabian Desert has a magical experience to offer after the day is done, whether you’re looking for activities that get your heart racing or the serenity of sleeping beneath the stars. Without a desert experience, no visit to Dubai would be complete and the traditions that shape the city is what makes it special.