Dubai is known for its towering skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, and opulent lifestyle, but beneath the modern glitz lies the mesmerizing expanse of the Arabian Desert, waiting to be explored. The Evening Desert Safari has become one of the top attractions for visitors, offering a thrilling escape from the city and a chance to experience the vast, golden dunes of the desert. If you’re considering booking a desert safari, one of the first things you’ll want to know is the Evening Desert Safari rates, as prices can vary depending on a variety of factors. In this blog, we will break down what to expect regarding the cost of your adventure and help you understand what’s included in different price ranges.
What Is Included in the Evening Desert Safari?
The Evening Desert Safari typically includes a combination of activities designed to showcase the best of what the desert has to offer. While prices may vary based on the package you choose, the core activities are usually consistent across most tours:
Hotel pick-up and drop-off: Most safari operators offer convenient pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle.
Dune bashing: This is one of the most exciting parts of the safari, where you’ll ride in a 4×4 vehicle and race across the dunes, providing an adrenaline rush like no other.
Camel rides: Get a taste of traditional desert transportation by riding a camel through the dunes.
Sandboarding: For those looking for adventure, sandboarding down the dunes is a thrilling activity.
BBQ dinner: A delicious buffet-style dinner typically includes grilled meats, Arabic bread, salads, and Middle Eastern sweets.
Cultural entertainment: The experience also includes cultural performances such as belly dancing, the Tanoura dance, and sometimes a fire show.
Factors Influencing Evening Desert Safari Rates
There are several factors that influence the cost of the Evening Desert Safari, which can range anywhere from AED 200 to AED 500 per person. Below, we’ll break down the key elements that can affect the price:
Type of Package:
Safari tours come in different packages, from basic to luxury, and the more exclusive the package, the higher the price.Standard Package: For those looking for a budget-friendly option, the standard Evening Desert Safari package, which includes the core activities like dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner, is generally priced between AED 200 and AED 350 per person.
VIP or Premium Package: If you want a more luxurious experience, such as private seating, exclusive 4×4 vehicles, and enhanced activities (e.g., longer camel rides or additional quad biking), you can expect to pay anywhere from AED 350 to AED 500 per person. These packages usually provide more personalized service and additional perks like extended dune bashing, better camp seating, and extra time on activities.
Time of Year:
Dubai’s peak tourist season runs from November to April, and during this time, desert safari rates tend to be higher due to the favorable weather conditions. The cooler months are the ideal time to visit, as temperatures in the desert can be scorching during the summer months, making the experience much more pleasant. However, you can still find good deals in the off-peak months of May to October, although the weather will be hotter, and some tours may offer lower rates to attract customers during the less popular season.Add-ons and Extras:
Many safari operators offer optional add-ons that can enhance your desert experience. These extras come at an additional cost, and prices can vary depending on the provider:Quad Bike Riding: If you want to take the adventure a step further, you can opt for a quad bike ride, which typically costs AED 100 to AED 150 for a short ride across the dunes. The quad bike experience is extremely popular and gives you the chance to control your vehicle as you race across the dunes.
Dune Buggy Rides: For a more intense off-road adventure, you can add a dune buggy ride, which generally costs between AED 150 and AED 250 depending on the duration and the operator.
Shisha (Hookah): Many desert camps offer shisha as an extra service, costing around AED 50 to AED 100. This is a popular option for those wanting to relax and enjoy the desert atmosphere with a traditional Middle Eastern touch.
Group vs. Private Safari:
The group safari is the most common and cost-effective option, where you join other tourists in the same vehicle. The price for this option usually falls in the range of AED 200 to AED 350 per person.Private safaris are more expensive, typically ranging from AED 500 to AED 700 per person or more, depending on the exclusivity and the number of people in your party. A private safari offers the advantage of more personalized attention, a private vehicle, and the flexibility to customize the itinerary to your preferences.
What’s Included in the Price?
It’s essential to understand what is included in the Evening Desert Safari package, as this will help you gauge whether the price is reasonable. For most operators, the price typically covers:
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle
Camel ride through the desert
Sandboarding
BBQ dinner, which includes grilled meats, fresh salads, and traditional desserts
Live entertainment such as belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and fire shows
Soft drinks and sometimes mineral water (alcohol is typically not included in the standard package, but it can be available for purchase at the camp).
For more exclusive packages, you may also receive:
Private transport in a luxury 4×4 vehicle
More personalized service with fewer guests in the camp
Longer duration of activities, including extended dune bashing or additional entertainment.
Choosing the Best Evening Desert Safari for Your Budget
When booking your Evening Desert Safari, it’s essential to compare the prices and the inclusions offered by various tour providers. Many companies offer a range of packages, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your preferences, whether you’re looking for an affordable adventure or a premium experience. Always ensure that the tour operator is reputable and provides a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.
Conclusion
The Evening Desert Safari rates in Dubai can vary depending on the type of package, the time of year, and any additional add-ons you choose. While a standard safari typically costs between AED 200 and AED 350, premium experiences with extra perks like private seating and extended activities can range from AED 350 to AED 500 per person. Add-ons like quad biking and dune buggy rides will add to the overall cost, but they can significantly enhance your desert experience. Regardless of the package you choose, an Evening Desert Safari is an unforgettable adventure that offers a perfect blend of thrill, culture, and relaxation under the vast desert sky.
