My Desert Safari Experience in Dubai

When you think of Dubai, images of towering skyscrapers, extravagant malls, and futuristic skylines come to mind. But just outside the city lies a very different side of the UAE—the desert. I recently had the chance to experience a Desert Safari in Dubai, and I wanted to share a full, honest account of how it went. It’s one of the most talked-about tourist activities in the region, and while it offers some truly memorable moments, there are also a few things worth keeping in mind before you go.

Booking and Pickup
There are plenty of companies offering Desert Safari experiences, so choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. I went with a mid-range package that included hotel pickup, dune bashing, a visit to a desert camp, dinner, and live entertainment.

The pickup was on time, which I appreciated. We were in a shared SUV with a few other tourists. The vehicle was clean and air-conditioned, though the ride from the city to the desert took close to an hour, with some waiting time as we picked up other passengers. If you're someone who values privacy, a private tour may be worth the extra cost.

Dune Bashing – Thrilling but Not for Everyone
Once we reached the desert, the real adventure began with dune bashing—essentially an off-road ride across the sand dunes in a 4x4 vehicle. Our driver was skilled and clearly experienced, making the ride both safe and exhilarating. That said, it was a wild ride, with sharp turns, sudden drops, and a lot of bouncing. It’s fun if you enjoy adrenaline, but it’s not ideal for people who get motion sickness or have back issues.

We did make a few stops for photos, and the desert views were stunning, especially as the sun began to set. The sand, the sky, the silence—there’s something timeless and beautiful about that landscape.

The Desert Camp – A Mixed Bag
After the dune bashing, we were taken to a traditional-style Bedouin camp. This is where the experience shifts from adventurous to cultural. At the camp, you can try camel rides, henna painting, shisha, and traditional costumes for photos. While these are fun, they’re brief and basic—the camel ride, for example, lasted about 2-3 minutes, more for the photo than an actual ride.

The camp layout was spacious, with carpets, cushions, and low tables in a circle around the stage. It had a nice, cozy vibe. However, it was a bit crowded, and it felt like a “mass tourism” setup rather than a deeply immersive cultural experience. Still, for a casual evening out, it was pleasant.

Food & Entertainment
The buffet dinner included grilled meats, rice, salads, and desserts. While the food wasn’t restaurant-quality, it was decent, especially considering the setting. Vegetarians had options too, though they were somewhat limited. Water, tea, and soft drinks were provided for free, while alcohol was available for an extra charge.

The evening shows included Tanoura dancing, fire performances, and a belly dancing act. The performers were talented, and the atmosphere was lively and entertaining. If you're expecting a cultural deep dive, this might not be it—but if you're looking for a fun night under the stars, it definitely delivers.

Service & Facilities
The staff were generally polite and helpful, though they seemed overwhelmed at times given the number of guests. Restroom facilities were available, but not the cleanest—something to be aware of if you’re particular about hygiene in remote settings.

Photography is a big part of the experience, and the camp had several photographers taking pictures (some of which they’ll try to sell to you later). It’s fine as long as you’re aware of the cost and not pressured to buy.

A Note on Sustainability
One thing I couldn’t help but notice was the amount of waste—from plastic cups to leftover food. It would be great if tour operators took more steps toward eco-friendly practices, especially considering the beauty and fragility of the desert ecosystem.

Final Thoughts
So, was the Desert Safari in Dubai worth it? Yes, as long as you go in with the right expectations. It’s not a luxury experience or a deep cultural immersion—but it is a fun, scenic, and action-packed half-day that gives you a glimpse of the UAE’s natural beauty and heritage, even if it’s presented in a simplified way.

I’d recommend it to:

First-time visitors to Dubai

Families with teens or young adults

Adventure seekers looking for a taste of desert thrill

Anyone wanting a break from the city’s urban buzz

It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you prefer quiet, personalized, or off-the-beaten-path experiences. But if you approach it as a tourist-friendly adventure with a little bit of everything, it’s genuinely enjoyable and offers some unforgettable moments.