Dubai’s desert safari camps offer unforgettable Arabian experiences across Lahbab, Al Marmoom, and Al Awir deserts, with options ranging from budget-friendly camps starting at AED 35 for self-drive entry to premium luxury venues featuring 50–70 dish buffets. The most popular choice is the evening safari priced at AED 99–179 per person, which includes dune bashing, camel rides, BBQ dinner, and live entertainment shows. Private safaris cost AED 799–999 per vehicle and are ideal for families seeking flexibility, while overnight experiences start at AED 349–399 for those wanting deeper desert immersion. Top camps include Universal for the best premium experience with extensive buffets, Royal Vision Camp for mid-range value, OceanAir’s Al Khayma camps for excellent service quality, and DadaBhai for budget-conscious travelers. Most comprehensive packages include hotel pickup, 30–45 minutes of dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, sunset photography stops, BBQ buffet dinner with vegetarian options, unlimited soft drinks, and cultural entertainment featuring Tanoura dance, belly dancing, and fire shows, making it easy to choose between shared safaris for best value or private experiences for personalized comfort and timing.
Dubai’s desert safari is one of the city’s most iconic experiences, blending thrilling dune drives, cultural entertainment, and authentic Arabian hospitality. With dozens of camps scattered across the golden dunes and prices ranging from AED 35 to over AED 400, choosing the right safari can be overwhelming.
This comprehensive guide cuts through the confusion with accurate 2026 pricing, detailed camp comparisons, and expert recommendations for every type of traveler from solo adventurers to families with kids and senior citizens.
What Are Desert Safari Camps in Dubai?
Desert safari camps are purpose-built Bedouin-style venues located in Dubai’s desert regions primarily Lahbab, Al Badayer, Al Marmoom, and Al Awir. These camps serve as the cultural and dining hub of your desert experience, where guests gather after an exhilarating 4×4 dune bashing adventure.
A typical camp experience includes traditional BBQ buffet dinners, live entertainment shows (belly dance, Tanoura, fire performances), camel rides, sandboarding, henna art, Arabic coffee service, and falcon photography opportunities. Camps range from budget-sharing setups with basic buffets to premium luxury venues offering live cooking stations, expansive 50–70 dish spreads, and VIP seating areas.
Understanding Dubai Desert Safari Types
Shared Safari Experiences
Sunrise Safari (3–4 hours) Perfect for photographers and early birds, sunrise safaris focus on capturing the desert’s golden hour beauty. These shorter experiences include early pickup, gentle dune driving, sunrise photo stops, and light refreshments, with optional camel rides or quad biking.
Best for: Photographers, couples, time-constrained travelers Price range: AED 149–179 per person Pros: Cooler weather, fewer crowds, stunning photography Cons: No dinner or evening entertainment, very early wake-up call
Morning Safari (4–5 hours) Ideal for families with young children or seniors who prefer to avoid late nights. Morning safari include 4×4 pickup, dune bashing, sandboarding, short camel rides, and light refreshments in cooler temperatures.
Best for: Families with kids, seniors, heat-sensitive travelers Price range: AED 149–199 per person Pros: Comfortable temperatures, shorter duration, family-friendly Cons: No BBQ dinner or cultural shows
Evening Safari (6–7 hours) The most popular and comprehensive option, evening safari deliver the complete desert experience. Starting with afternoon pickup, you’ll enjoy red dunes dune bashing in Lahbab or Al Badayer, sandboarding, camel riding, sunset photography stops, and full camp access with BBQ buffet, soft drinks, and live entertainment including Tanoura, belly dance, and fire shows.
Best for: First-time visitors, families, friend groups Price range: Budget camps AED 55–79; mid-range AED 99–150; premium AED 150–300+ per person Pros: Best overall value, complete experience in one package Cons: Can be crowded at popular camps during peak season
VIP Evening Safari (6–7 hours) All the inclusions of a standard evening safari with added comfort VIP table service, reserved priority seating away from crowds, upgraded buffet options or dedicated serving areas, and sometimes access to separate VIP lounge sections.
Best for: Couples, small families, comfort-focused travelers Price range: AED 149–179+ per person Pros: Less queuing, better seating, more personalized service Cons: Higher cost than shared options
Private & Overnight Experiences
Private Desert Safari (Evening) Your group gets an exclusive 4×4 vehicle with flexible timing and customizable pace. While dune bashing is private, camp access is typically shared or semi-private depending on the operator. Includes all standard activities with the freedom to adjust intensity and duration.
Best for: Families with young kids, honeymooners, VIP guests, corporate groups Price range: AED 799–999 per vehicle (accommodates up to 6 guests) Pros: Complete privacy during drive, flexible schedule, ideal for kids and elders Cons: Higher per-vehicle cost
Overnight Desert Safari (18+ hours) The ultimate desert immersion experience. Enjoy a complete evening safari followed by overnight accommodation in traditional tents or luxury domes, stargazing around the bonfire, light breakfast at sunrise, morning camel trek, and the magic of both sunset and sunrise in the desert.
Best for: Adventure travelers, couples seeking romance, cultural enthusiasts Price range: AED 349–399 per person for shared packages; AED 1,500+ for private vehicle overnight Pros: Deepest cultural immersion, both sunset and sunrise, fewer crowds at night Cons: Not suitable for very young children or those uncomfortable sleeping outdoors
Desert Safari Packages & Prices in 2026
Shared Safari Prices Per Person
| Safari Type | Solo Traveler | Couples (Total) | Families (2 Adults) | Children (3–12 years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunrise Safari | AED 149–179 | AED 298–358 | AED 298–358 | +AED 120–140 |
| Morning Safari | AED 149–199 | AED 298–398 | AED 298–398 | +AED 120–140 |
| Evening Safari | AED 99–129 | AED 198–258 | AED 198–258 | +AED 80–100 |
| VIP Evening Safari | AED 149–179 | AED 298–358 | AED 298–358 | +AED 120–140 |
Private & Overnight Options
| Package Type | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private Evening Safari | AED 799–999 per vehicle | Accommodates up to 6 guests |
| Overnight Safari (Shared) | AED 349–399 per person | Children AED 280–320 |
| Private Overnight | AED 1,500+ per vehicle | Varies by operator and season |
Budget Self-Drive Options
For travelers with their own transportation seeking maximum value:
| Package Type | Self-Drive Entry | With Pickup & Transfer | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Evening Safari | AED 35 | AED 79 | Camp entry, basic dinner, shows |
| Standard Evening Safari | — | AED 99–129 | Full experience with quality buffet |
| VIP Evening Safari | — | AED 149–179 | Premium seating and upgraded service |
| Safari with Quad Bike | — | AED 199+ | Includes 30-min quad biking |
| Private Safari | — | AED 799–999 per vehicle | Exclusive vehicle and flexible timing |
The Best Desert Safari Camps in Dubai
Mid-Range & Value Camps
Universal Camp Location: Lahbab Red Dunes
Universal Camp strikes an excellent balance between quality and affordability. This camp features a more intimate layout compared to mega-camps, with proper live BBQ stations, comprehensive buffet spread, and all standard desert activities including dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, henna, and falcon photography.
Cultural entertainment includes Tanoura, belly dance, and fire shows. The camp is used by multiple operators and maintains good standards for shared and private safari guests alike.
Why it’s on the list: Balanced camp delivering comfortable, quality experience without premium pricing. Ideal for families and couples seeking good food and atmosphere without the crowds of budget camps (shared safari from AED 120–140; private safari around AED 750 per vehicle).
ABC Tours Camp Location: Lahbab/Al Awir Dunes
ABC Tours operates established desert camps with solid review history and reliable mid-range quality. The camp offers standard desert safari inclusions with optional VIP lounge upgrades, decent buffet variety, and popular entertainment shows. As a long-standing DMC (Destination Management Company), ABC Tours maintains consistent service standards.
Why it’s on the list: Reliable mid-market option with established reputation, suitable for travelers seeking dependable quality at fair prices (typically AED 200–350 depending on package inclusions).
Noble Camp Location: Lahbab/Al Awir
Noble Camp delivers the classic safari experience at competitive mid-range pricing. Standard Lahbab red dunes location with shared evening safaris, comprehensive dune bashing, camel rides, BBQ buffet dinner, and full entertainment lineup.
Why it’s on the list: Well-recognized among mid-range camps, strong group-handling capacity, ideal for DMC bookings and series groups seeking reliable experience.
Budget-Friendly Camps
DadaBhai Camp Location: Dubai Desert Areas
One of Dubai’s classic budget-friendly desert camps, DadaBhai has served tourists for years with no-frills desert experiences. The camp offers basic but complete evening safari packages including dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, henna, buffet dinner, and standard entertainment.
Historic promotional offers have started from as low as AED 30–50 per person for basic camp access, making it one of the most affordable entry points to desert safari experiences. Best suited for price-sensitive groups and travelers who prioritize adventure activities over premium amenities.
Why it’s on the list: Established budget operator, ideal for large groups and backpackers seeking minimum spend for complete safari experience (budget packages from AED 35–79).
DreamNight Camp Location: Desert areas near Dubai
Budget to mid-range camp operated by Dream Night Tours, offering standard evening desert safari with BBQ dinner and cultural shows at competitive pricing.
Why it’s on the list: Good option for budget comparison sections, delivers core safari experience at accessible prices.
Premium & Luxury Camps
Royal Vision Camp Location: Lahbab Red Dunes
Royal Vision stands out as one of Dubai’s most premium desert safari destinations, operating one of the largest camps with capacity for hundreds of guests without feeling overcrowded. The camp’s defining feature is its extraordinary food spread 50 to 70 dishes including live cooking stations, fresh BBQ, HACCP-certified kitchen standards, and dedicated vegetarian sections.
The entertainment lineup includes professional Tanoura dancers, belly dance performances, and fire shows. VIP and premium seating areas offer elevated experiences with table service. The camp operates a luxury fleet of Land Cruisers and GMC vehicles for comfortable desert transfers.
Why it’s on the list: Best overall premium camp for food variety, professional entertainment, and 5-star desert experience at competitive luxury pricing (promotional rates from AED 159–199).
OceanAir Camp (Al Khayma / Al Marmoom) Location: Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve and red dune areas
OceanAir operates highly-rated premium camps with an emphasis on service quality and guest experience. These camps consistently receive excellent reviews for guide professionalism, communication, and attention to detail. The Al Marmoom location offers an eco-conscious desert experience with wildlife spotting opportunities alongside traditional safari activities.
Multi-course BBQ dinners, comprehensive activity packages including quad biking options, and well-maintained facilities make OceanAir camps ideal for families and couples prioritizing quality over bargain prices.
Why it’s on the list: Exceptional guest reviews, reliable service standards, beautiful Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve setting, ideal for families wanting premium quality without ultra-luxury pricing (AED 250–400 range).
Additional Notable Camps
ICL Lama Camp – Long-running desert camp with strong presence among Asian tour groups and expat segments, excellent group-handling capacity.
Oasis Palm Camp – Frequently featured in package deals and vouchers, reliable for value-conscious travelers seeking standard experience.
DTTS Camp, Unique Camp, YourTrip Camp, Falcon Camp, Highway Camp, Royal Eagle Camp, Atlanta Camp, Adventure Planet Camp, EasyTrip Camp, D4D Camp – Operator-branded camps typically located in Lahbab red dunes or Al Awir, offering standard desert safari inclusions including 4×4 pickup, dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, henna, falcon photography, shisha corner, buffet BBQ dinner with vegetarian/non-vegetarian options, and Tanoura, belly dance, and fire shows.
Best Safari Recommendations by Traveler Type
Solo Travelers Best choice: Shared evening safari (AED 99–129) Why: Maximum experience at minimum cost, opportunity to meet other travelers, full access to all activities and entertainment. Upgrade to VIP (AED 149–179) if you prefer better seating and less crowded dining.
Couples Best choice: VIP evening safari (AED 149–179 per person) or private evening safari (AED 799 per vehicle) Why: VIP seating offers romantic ambiance with better views of entertainment and sunset. Private safaris provide complete privacy during the dune drive with flexible timing for proposal-worthy moments.
New Families (No Kids) Best choice: Standard evening safari (AED 99 per person) Why: Full experience with excellent value, comfortable for younger couples exploring desert culture together before starting a family.
Families with Children Best choice: Evening safari with kids pricing or private safari Why: Evening timing allows kids to enjoy entertainment shows. Children’s pricing (AED 80–140) makes family outings affordable. Private safaris offer flexibility for feeding schedules, bathroom breaks, and the option to request gentler dune bashing for young ones.
Senior Citizens Best choice: Morning safari (AED 149–179) or VIP evening safari Why: Morning safaris avoid late nights and extreme heat. VIP packages ensure comfortable seating, less walking, and the option to skip intense dune bashing or go directly to camp. Private safaris allow complete control over activity intensity.
What’s Included in Your Desert Safari
Most comprehensive evening safari packages include:
Transportation: Hotel pickup and drop-off in comfortable 4×4 vehicles (Land Cruiser, GMC, or similar)
Adventure Activities:
- 30–45 minutes of dune bashing across red sand dunes
- Sandboarding on desert slopes
- Camel riding (15–20 minute experience)
- Sunset photography stop at scenic dune viewpoint
Camp Experiences:
- Traditional Arabic coffee, dates, and tea service
- Henna art application
- Traditional costume photography
- Falcon photography opportunity
- Shisha smoking area (tobacco-free options available)
Dinner & Refreshments:
- BBQ buffet dinner with 20–70 dishes depending on camp tier
- Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
- Live cooking stations at premium camps
- Unlimited soft drinks and water
- Desserts and fresh fruits
Entertainment:
- Tanoura dance performance (whirling dervish)
- Belly dance show
- Fire performance show
- Traditional music
Optional Add-Ons (typically extra charge):
- Quad biking (AED 150–360 for 30–60 minutes)
- Dune buggy rides
- Premium alcoholic beverages (where permitted)
- Extended camel trekking
- Professional photography packages
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best desert safari camp in Dubai? Universal Camp by Roar Adventure Tourism Leads for Budget Friendly and Mid range desert safari camp in Dubai. Royal Vision for overall premium experience with its 50–70 dish buffet and professional entertainment. OceanAir’s Al Khayma camps excel for service quality and eco-conscious experiences. Dadabhai Camp offers the budget friendly balance of comfort and value. For budget travelers, DadaBhai Camp provides complete experiences at minimal cost.
Which desert safari camp has the best food in Dubai? Universal Camp typically serve 30-40 dishes including fresh grills, multiple salads, rice varieties, Arabic mezze, international options, and desserts. Mid-range camps offer 20–30 dishes. Budget camps serve 10–15 basic items sufficient but not exceptional.
What is the cheapest desert safari in Dubai right now? Self-drive camp entry starts from AED 35 at budget operators like DadaBhai. The cheapest complete experience with pickup, dune bashing, and dinner ranges from AED 55–79 per person during promotional periods. However, these ultra-budget options often mean crowded camps, basic food, and shared vehicles with 6–7 guests.
Is desert safari safe for kids and seniors? Yes, with proper precautions. Choose morning safaris for seniors to avoid heat and late nights. Request soft dune bashing or skip it entirely all camps can be reached directly. Ensure proper seatbelt use during drives. Children under 3 may find dune bashing too intense. Private safaris offer maximum control over safety and pace. Hundreds of families and seniors enjoy desert safaris daily with appropriate operator selection.
Which is better shared or private desert safari? Shared safaris (AED 79-99) offer the best value for solo travelers, couples, and small families on standard budgets. Private safaris (AED 799+) are worth the investment for families with young children or elders, groups wanting flexible timing, or couples seeking romantic privacy. First-timers typically find shared evening safaris perfectly satisfactory.
What is the average Dubai desert safari price in 2026? A quality shared evening safari with all inclusions ranges from AED 79-99 per adult. Budget options go as low as AED 55–79, while premium experiences reach AED 179–300+. Private evening safaris cost AED 799–999 per vehicle. Children’s pricing is typically AED 80–140. Expect seasonal variations, with higher prices during winter peak season (November–March).
What’s included in a typical evening desert safari? Hotel pickup/drop-off in 4×4, 30–45 minutes dune bashing, sandboarding, camel ride, sunset photos, camp access with BBQ buffet dinner, unlimited soft drinks, Tanoura/belly dance/fire shows, henna art, traditional costume photos, falcon photography, Arabic coffee and dates. Premium packages add VIP seating, expanded buffets, and priority service.
Are vegetarian and vegan food options available at desert safari camps? Yes, all camps serve vegetarian options including salads, rice dishes, vegetable curries, hummus, and Arabic mezze. Premium camps offer dedicated vegetarian serving sections. Vegan options are more limited but available inform your operator in advance for best results. Many camps now accommodate dietary restrictions including gluten-free and allergen concerns with advance notice.
Which desert is better for safari in Dubai Lahbab, Al Badayer, or Al Marmoom? Lahbab Red Dunes are most popular for their dramatic red sand and proximity to Dubai (45–60 minutes). Al Badayer offers similar red dunes with slightly fewer crowds. Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve provides eco-tourism experiences with wildlife spotting but gentler dune terrain. For classic dune bashing and spectacular landscapes, Lahbab is the top choice.
Can I book a self-drive desert safari camp entry only? Yes, several operators offer self-drive options starting from AED 35–79 per person for camp entry, dinner, and shows without transportation. You’ll receive GPS coordinates to the camp (typically 50–70km from Dubai). This works best for residents with 4×4 vehicles and desert driving experience. Most tourists prefer packages with pickup for safety and convenience.
What should I wear for a desert safari in Dubai? Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes in light colors. Women: maxi dresses, loose pants with cotton tops, or modest sundresses with scarves. Men: light trousers or shorts with t-shirts. Closed-toe shoes or sneakers are essential avoid flip-flops as sand gets hot. Bring a light jacket for cooler evening temperatures (November–March). Sunglasses and sunscreen are crucial. Avoid white clothing as desert sand stains easily.
Are quad bikes and dune buggies included or charged extra? Quad biking and dune buggy rides are almost always charged separately, typically AED 150–360 for 30–60 minutes depending on vehicle type and duration. Basic safari packages include dune bashing in 4×4 vehicles, sandboarding, and camel rides. Always confirm add-on costs before booking to avoid surprises.
Is alcohol available at desert safari camps in Dubai? Most desert safari camps do not serve alcohol as they operate in desert conservation areas outside licensed zones and not included in safari packages, but can be available at additional cost. Some luxury private desert resorts and premium operators may offer alcohol packages with advance arrangement at additional cost. Standard camps serve unlimited soft drinks, water, Arabic coffee, and tea. If alcohol is important to your experience, specifically inquire when booking.
How far are the desert camps from Dubai city? Lahbab and Al Badayer camps are 45–70 kilometers from central Dubai, typically 50–70 minutes drive depending on traffic. Al Marmoom camps are slightly closer at 40–60 minutes. Pickup times are usually 3:00–3:30 PM for evening safaris to allow for travel time and dune bashing before sunset around 5:30–6:00 PM.
Can I book a private birthday or anniversary celebration in a desert camp? Yes, many operators arrange private celebrations with advance notice. Decorations, special cakes, private dining areas, and customized experiences can be organized for additional fees. Private safari packages make the best foundation for celebrations, allowing flexibility for surprise elements and dedicated service. Discuss your requirements during booking for proper arrangements.
Pro Tips for the Best Desert Safari Experience
- Book During Shoulder Season for better prices and smaller crowds (April–May or September–October)
- Read Recent Reviews on TripAdvisor, Google, and GetYourGuide to verify current quality standards camps and operators can change quickly
- Confirm All Inclusions in Writing before paying, especially for budget packages where pickup and activities may be optional
- Request Pickup Time Windows rather than exact times desert logistics make precise scheduling difficult
- Bring Minimal Valuables and a small crossbody bag large bags are cumbersome in sand and during activities
- Charge Your Phone Fully for photos, but bring a power bank as charging isn’t available at most camps
- Arrive Hungry at evening safaris buffets are substantial and you’ll want to sample multiple dishes
- Position Yourself Early for Shows by finishing dinner before entertainment begins around 7:30–8:00 PM
- Book VIP for Special Occasions like proposals, anniversaries, or birthdays the AED 30–50 upgrade significantly enhances comfort
Final Recommendations: Your Perfect Desert Safari Match
Best Overall Value: Shared evening safari at Universal Camp or similar mid-range operators (AED 99–140) delivers complete experience with quality food and entertainment at fair prices.
Best Premium Experience: Royal Vision Camp evening safari with VIP seating (AED 179–199) for its exceptional 50–70 dish buffet, professional shows, and luxury touches without ultra-premium pricing.
Best for Families: Private evening safari (AED 799–999 per vehicle) provides flexibility, privacy, and control over intensity worth the investment for comfort with kids or elders.
Best Budget Option: DadaBhai or similar budget camps with self-drive (from AED 35) or pickup packages (from AED 79) for travelers prioritizing experience over premium amenities.
Best Romantic Experience: VIP evening safari at OceanAir’s Al Marmoom camp or private sunset safari with Royal Vision for couples seeking memorable desert moments.
Best for First-Timers: Standard shared evening safari (AED 99–129) with any reputable mid-range operator offers the complete classic experience without overwhelming choices or expenses.
Dubai’s desert safari remains one of the emirate’s most authentic cultural experiences, transcending typical tourist activities to deliver genuine Arabian adventure and hospitality. Whether you choose a budget-friendly group safari or an exclusive private experience, the combination of thrilling dune drives, cultural immersion, and desert beauty creates memories that outlast your Dubai vacation.
With this comprehensive guide’s pricing transparency, detailed camp comparisons, and practical recommendations, you’re now equipped to book the perfect desert safari for your needs and budget in 2026.
