Family Desert Safari Dubai: Dune Bashing, Camels & More!

Dubai is a city of wonders, where towering skyscrapers meet golden deserts. One of the most thrilling experiences you can enjoy with your loved ones is a Family Desert Safari Dubai. This adventure-packed excursion offers a perfect mix of excitement, culture, and relaxation, making it ideal for families with kids, teens, and even grandparents.

From adrenaline-pumping dune bashing to peaceful camel rides, a desert safari in Dubai has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about planning the perfect Family Desert Safari Dubai, including activities, safety tips, and must-try experiences.

Why Choose a Family Desert Safari Dubai?

A desert safari is more than just a ride over sand dunes—it’s an immersive experience that blends adventure, tradition, and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s why it’s perfect for families:

✅ Kid-Friendly Activities â€“ Many tours offer child-safe dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding.

✅ Cultural Experiences â€“ Enjoy traditional Emirati performances, henna art, and Arabic cuisine.

✅ Unforgettable Memories â€“ Watching the sunset over the desert is a magical moment for the whole family.

✅ Safe & Well-Organized â€“ Professional tour operators ensure safety while keeping the fun alive.

Top Activities on a Family Desert Safari Dubai

1. Dune Bashing – The Ultimate Thrill Ride

Dune bashing is the highlight of any desert safari. Families ride in a 4x4 vehicle driven by an expert over the rolling sand dunes. While it may sound intense, many operators offer family-friendly dune bashing, with smoother rides for younger kids.

🔹 Safety Tip: Always check if the tour provides child seats and opt for a milder ride if you have toddlers.

2. Camel Riding – A Traditional Desert Experience

No desert safari is complete without a camel ride. These gentle giants offer a slow, swaying journey across the sands—perfect for kids and adults alike. Some tours even allow you to take family photos with the camels in the golden desert light.

🐫 Fun Fact: Camels are called the "ships of the desert" and can drink up to 40 gallons of water in one go!

3. Sandboarding – Surfing the Desert Dunes

For families who love adventure, sandboarding is a must-try! Similar to snowboarding, you slide down the dunes on a board. Kids especially love this activity, and most tour operators provide smaller boards for younger children.

🏂 Pro Tip: Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes to avoid sand burns.

4. Sunset Views – A Picture-Perfect Moment

The desert transforms into a golden paradise at sunset. Many Family Desert Safari Dubai tours include a sunset stop, where you can capture stunning family photos against the endless dunes.

🌅 Best Time: Evening safaris (around 3 PM–4 PM) offer the best sunset views.

5. Bedouin Camp Experience – Culture & Entertainment

After the adventure, most tours take you to a traditional Bedouin-style camp, where you can enjoy:

• Live Performances â€“ Tanoura dance, fire shows, and belly dancing (family-friendly).
• Henna Painting â€“ Kids and adults can get beautiful temporary henna tattoos.
• Arabic Costume Photos â€“ Dress up in traditional Emirati attire for fun pictures.
• Buffet Dinner â€“ Feast on grilled meats, hummus, salads, and Arabic sweets.

6. Quad Biking – Extra Adventure for Older Kids & Teens

Some desert safari packages include quad biking, where older kids (usually 12+) can ride under supervision. It’s an exhilarating way to explore the desert independently.

🏍 Age & Height Restrictions: Always check the operator’s rules before booking.

7. Falconry – A Glimpse into Emirati Heritage

Falconry is a significant part of UAE culture, and some desert camps offer falcon shows, where trained birds swoop and dive on command. Kids are often fascinated by these majestic creatures!

🦅 Did You Know? Falcons can fly at speeds of up to 240 km/h (150 mph)!

Best Time for a Family Desert Safari Dubai

Dubai’s desert can be extremely hot in summer (June–August), making outdoor activities uncomfortable for kids. The best time for a family-friendly desert safari is:

• Winter (November–March): Pleasant temperatures (20°C–30°C).
• Early Morning or Evening: Avoids the midday heat.

❌ Avoid Midday Safaris in Summer â€“ Temperatures can exceed 45°C (113°F).

Choosing the Right Family Desert Safari Dubai Package

Not all desert safaris are the same. Here’s how to pick the best one for your family:

✔ Private vs. Group Tour:

• Private Safari â€“ More flexibility, customized pace.
• Group Tour â€“ More affordable, social experience.

✔ Duration:

• Morning Safari (5 AM–9 AM) â€“ Cooler, less crowded.
• Evening Safari (3 PM–9 PM) â€“ Includes sunset & dinner.

✔ Inclusions:

• Look for child-friendly activities (gentle dune bashing, camel rides).
• Check if meals and drinks are included.

✔ Safety Measures:

• Seat belts & child seats in 4x4s.
• Licensed & experienced drivers.

What to Pack for Your Family Desert Safari Dubai

To ensure a comfortable trip, pack:

👕 Clothing:

• Light, breathable clothes (long sleeves protect from the sun).
• A jacket (desert nights can get chilly in winter).
• Sunglasses, hats, and scarves.

👟 Footwear:

• Closed-toe shoes (sand can get very hot).

🧴 Essentials:

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+).
• Wet wipes & hand sanitizer.
• Reusable water bottles.

📸 Extras:

• Camera/phone for photos.
• Small backpack for snacks & toys (for kids).

Safety Tips for Families

While desert safaris are generally safe, follow these tips for a smooth experience:

🔹 Hydrate Frequently â€“ The desert air is dry, so drink water often.

🔹 Follow Guide Instructions â€“ Especially during dune bashing & quad biking.

🔹 Keep Kids Supervised â€“ The desert is vast; always watch little ones.

🔹 Avoid Heavy Meals Before Dune Bashing â€“ Prevents motion sickness.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Do Dubai Experience!

A Family Desert Safari Dubai is more than just a tour—it’s an adventure that brings families closer through shared thrills and cultural discoveries. Whether it’s the excitement of dune bashing, the charm of camel rides, or the magic of a desert sunset, this experience is sure to create lifelong memories.

Ready to Book Your Family Desert Safari Dubai?

Look for family-friendly operators, compare packages, and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the golden sands of Dubai