VIP Desert Safari Dubai

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai and looking for a blend of adventure, culture, and luxury, the VIP Desert Safari offers a compelling package. While not all reviews paint it as a true ‘VIP’ experience, most agree it delivers excellent value and memorable moments in the desert.

What we love about this tour is the well-rounded mix of activities—from exhilarating dune bashing in a Land Cruiser to relaxed camel rides—and the quality of the entertainment and dinner. The pricing at around $65 per person makes it accessible without sacrificing too much of the experience’s authenticity.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the experience crowded and less exclusive than expected, especially when it comes to the shared nature of the event. If you’re after a quieter, more private outing, this might not be your ideal pick.

This tour suits those seeking a fun, value-packed evening with plenty of traditional touches and lively performances—perfect for first-timers or families wanting an authentic desert adventure without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Good value for money with a diverse range of activities included
• Includes traditional entertainment, like belly dancing and fire shows
• Crowd levels can be high, which might diminish the VIP feel
• Perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive desert experience
• Duration of around 6 hours offers a full evening of entertainment
• Booking 15 days in advance secures your spot, especially during peak times

What You Can Expect from the VIP Desert Safari Dubai

This experience is designed to pack a lot into a 6-hour window, starting with the pickup from your hotel (or designated meeting point). The highlight is the dune bashing in a Land Cruiser, where skilled guides navigate the sandy slopes, giving you a thrill and some fantastic photo opportunities.

Next, the journey takes you to the Royal Vision Camp, a luxury-style desert retreat that feels more exclusive than a typical camp. Here, you’ll find a seating area with high chairs and tables, where a delicious Arabic BBQ and international buffet dinner await. The fact that this is described as a 5-star buffet means you’re in for a more upscale dining experience in the desert.

Dune Bashing and Photo Stops

The dune bashing in 4×4 Land Cruisers is a core part of the tour, offering adrenaline-fueled moments that many reviewers appreciated, especially if you’re into off-road adventures. The sunset photo stop adds a great scenic element—ideal for capturing the desert’s hues just as the sun dips below the horizon.

Cultural and Traditional Activities

At the camp, you’ll have opportunities to ride camels, get henna tattoos, and wear traditional costumes for photos. A noteworthy point from reviews is that the camel ride is included; however, extras like quad biking are not included, which is something to consider if you’re craving more action.

Evening Entertainment

The live performances are a highlight for many. You’ll see a tanoura dance show, an Egyptian belly dancer, and a dramatic fire show. These performances take place under a canopy of stars, giving the experience a genuine cultural touch.

Return and Convenience

After the evening’s festivities, the tour concludes with drop-off back at your hotel or designated location, making it a hassle-free experience for travelers.

The Realities of the Experience (Based on Reviewer Insights)

While most aspects of the tour are positive, some reviews highlight the overcrowded nature and poor organization. Dmitry_D mentioned that the experience was not particularly ‘VIP’, describing it as a crowded event with limited options outside of dune bashing and the buffet dinner. Some felt standing around for 1.5 hours with large crowds diminished the exclusivity.

That said, the dune bashing was repeatedly praised, with comments like “it was good,” indicating that this adrenaline activity lives up to expectations. The buffet dinner was also noted as a highlight, with many appreciating the variety and quality, especially in a desert setting.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour typically starts at 2:30 pm, allowing ample time to enjoy sunset and evening activities. The pickup service is offered, adding convenience, and the group size can be up to 450 travelers, which explains some crowding issues noted by reviewers. The transportation is in a Land Cruiser for dune bashing and a comfortable camp setting, which feels more upscale compared to traditional setups.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At just under $65, this tour offers a lot of value considering the range of activities, transportation, entertainment, and dinner included. For many travelers, especially those on a budget or wanting a comprehensive desert experience, it’s a solid choice. That said, if your priority is privacy and exclusivity, or if you prefer quieter, less crowded outings, you might want to consider other options.

First-time visitors to Dubai who want a full desert experience packed with activities and performances will find this tour ideal. It’s also suited for families or groups looking for a lively, fun evening that feels authentic but still accessible.

Travelers who enjoy cultural shows and lively entertainment will appreciate the evening’s performances. Meanwhile, those seeking a peaceful, intimate desert escape might find the crowd size less appealing.

Final Thoughts

The VIP Desert Safari Dubai offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment at a very reasonable price point. Despite some criticisms about crowd levels, most guests enjoy the variety of activities and the quality of the food and performances. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want a fun, engaging, and value-rich desert outing that leaves plenty of room for memorable photos and stories.

If your goal is to get a taste of Dubai’s desert with a touch of luxury and lively entertainment, this tour checks many boxes. Just be prepared for a potentially bustling atmosphere—this is a popular experience for good reason.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered as part of the tour, making it easier to start your adventure without the hassle of finding a meeting point.

What time does the tour start?
The tour typically begins at 2:30 pm, giving you enough time to enjoy the sunset and the evening activities.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a full evening affair from pickup to drop-off.

Are there any activities not included?
Yes, quad biking is not included in the package, but other activities like dune bashing, camel rides, and performances are.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but due to crowds and the nature of the activities, it may be less suitable for those seeking a quiet or private experience.

Whether you’re after heart-pumping dune bashing, cultural performances, or simply want to enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars, the VIP Desert Safari Dubai offers an engaging and budget-friendly way to experience the desert. It’s perfect for those after a lively, activity-packed evening that balances adventure with authenticity.