Full Day Desert Safari Tour in Dubai

Exploring Dubai’s Desert and City in One Day: A Complete Review of the Full Day Desert Safari Tour

Dubai’s vast desert sands and dazzling skyscrapers are two sides of the same coin, and this Full Day Desert Safari Tour offers a balanced glimpse into both worlds. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed reviews and comprehensive itineraries, it promises a well-rounded, value-packed adventure perfect for those wanting a taste of traditional Emirati culture while still enjoying Dubai’s modern marvels.

What excites us most about this experience? First, the authentic desert activities like dune bashing and camel riding bring the desert to life. Second, the cultural touches such as Henna tattoos and Arabic dress photos add a personal, traditional flair. Third, the tour concludes with a visit to the Dubai Mall, giving a rewarding blend of outdoor adventure and urban sightseeing.

A potential consideration is the long day—from pickup to drop-off, it spans over 5 hours, which might be intense for travelers with limited time or low stamina. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and city highlights in one package. If you’re after a relaxed, single-focus experience, this might not be the ideal fit, but for curious explorers eager to see Dubai in all its facets, this tour hits the spot.

Who would love this? It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive day out, families looking for engaging activities, or anyone wanting a snapshot of Dubai’s contrasting landscapes. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the price point, considering the variety of experiences included.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines desert adventure with urban sightseeing
• Cultural Activities: Henna tattoos, Arabic dress photos, camel rides
• Adrenaline Rush: Dune bashing and sandboarding add excitement
• Flexible Options: Includes optional city tour upgrades like Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain
• Value for Money: At around $56, packed with activities and professional guides
• Note on Duration: Long but rewarding day, best for those comfortable with a full schedule

A Deep Dive into the Full Day Desert Safari Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at 2:00 pm, the tour kicks off with a land cruiser 4×4 pickup, setting the tone for an adventure that’s both comfortable and thrilling. The first major stop is a half-hour dune bashing session, where skilled drivers navigate the sands in a way that’s designed to get your adrenaline pumping—think sharp turns, dips, and rolls that leave many guests grinning ear to ear. One review highlighted how the driver’s expertise made the ride both safe and exhilarating, with a guest noting, “He showed us a lot of interesting things, history, and news,” which indicates a knowledgeable guide behind the wheel.

From there, you’ll head to the desert safari camp, where traditional Emirati activities await. Here, you can try Henna tattoos, take photos in authentic Arabic attire, and relax with water and soft drinks. The camp is designed to be both entertaining and culturally immersive, offering plenty of photo opportunities, especially with local dress and falcon pictures—an experience many reviewers found memorable.

Camel Riding and Sandboarding

The camel farm visit is a genuine highlight—seeing herds of hump-backed camels and getting a chance to ride on these gentle giants offers a glimpse into traditional desert transport. One reviewer mentioned enjoying the balance challenge of camel riding and learning about different camel types native to Dubai’s region.

Next up is the sandboarding session, which is a real adrenaline rush. You’ll learn how to “surf on sand” and race down dunes, perfect for thrill-seekers or those wanting a fun, active break from sightseeing. Many visitors remarked that sandboarding was among the most exciting parts of the tour, with some noting it as their favorite activity.

Visiting Dubai Mall and Iconic Sights

After the desert adventure, the tour transitions into city exploration with a visit to Dubai Mall. Here, you’ll have about an hour to see the Dubai Aquarium, enjoy the Dancing Fountain show, and admire the view of Burj Khalifa—the world’s tallest building. The dancing fountain especially impresses guests in the evening, offering a captivating water and light display set against the backdrop of the towering skyscraper.

Reviews praise this segment for providing a spectacular contrast to the desert experience. One reviewer shared, “The sunset views from the desert were magical, and the Dubai Mall’s city lights were stunning,” capturing the blend of nature and urban beauty that Dubai offers.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

This tour offers a broad array of activities included in the price—desert safari, camp services, Henna tattoos, BBQ dinner, sheesha smoking, water and soft drinks, camel riding, and Arabic dress photos. These inclusions make the experience feel comprehensive and culturally authentic.

However, some extras are not included: alcoholic beverages and tipping are on travelers’ own tabs. The tour is designed as a family-friendly, culturally rich adventure, so it’s good to plan for additional expenses if you wish to indulge in alcohol or tip guides for exceptional service.

The Experience of the Guide and Group Size

Guests have consistently praised the guides, with reviews highlighting Yasir and others as knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. Guests appreciated guides who shared interesting facts and helped capture photos, adding a personal touch that enhances the overall experience.

The group size is capped at around 100 travelers, maintaining a lively yet manageable atmosphere. This size allows for social interaction but also ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, making the experience more intimate than some large tours.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Timing: The tour starts at 2:00 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness is recommended, especially for dune bashing and sandboarding.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities; bring sunglasses and sun protection.
• What to Bring: Camera, hat, and perhaps some cash for tips or souvenirs.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with full refunds offered.
• Duration: Be prepared for a long day—packing in desert activities and city sightseeing.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This Full Day Desert Safari Tour offers a hearty mix of adventure, culture, and urban sightseeing, all at a very reasonable price. For around $56, you get a full afternoon of activities that showcase Dubai’s contrasting landscapes. It’s especially appealing for those wanting an authentic desert experience combined with a taste of Dubai’s modern marvels.

If your time in Dubai is limited but you want to tick off key highlights without multiple bookings, this tour provides convenience and variety. The inclusion of knowledgeable guides and authentic activities makes it a genuinely immersive experience.

However, travelers seeking a more relaxed, less packed day might find the schedule intense. It’s best suited for adventure lovers, families, or first-time visitors eager to experience both the desert sands and city lights in one go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup in a land cruiser 4×4, making it easy to start your adventure without worrying about logistics.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, giving you peace of mind.

What activities are included in the price?
Activities like dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and camp services including Henna tattoos, sheesha, and a BBQ dinner are all covered.

Are children allowed on this tour?
While specific age restrictions aren’t detailed, the activities are generally suitable for families, but moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing, sunglasses, and sun protection are advisable. You might want to bring a hat or cap for shade.

Is alcohol available during the tour?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included, and generally not part of the package.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 100 travelers, balancing social interaction with personal space.

To sum it up, this Full Day Desert Safari Tour offers a fantastic way to experience Dubai’s natural and urban highlights seamlessly. It’s well-suited for those looking for a full-bodied day of adventure, culture, and sightseeing at a competitive price. With friendly guides and a mix of activities that appeal to various interests, it’s a practical choice for first-timers eager for a memorable taste of Dubai.