Is Desert Safari Dubai Free? No. The desert itself is open, but an organized safari is a paid experience that covers licensed 4×4 transport, dune bashing, sandboarding, camp access, dinner, shows, and insurance. This guide explains typical prices, what’s included, standard extras, and simple ways to save—so you book with confidence and avoid surprise add-ons.
Is Desert Safari Dubai Free or Paid? (Quick Answer)
Is Desert Safari Dubai Free? It’s a paid tour. You’re paying for professional drivers, vehicles equipped for dunes, safety coverage, and access to a Bedouin-style camp with activities and (for evening tours) BBQ dinner and live shows.
Typical price ranges (AED)
Prices vary by season, pickup type, and inclusions, but these ballparks will help you plan.
- Morning Desert Safari (no dinner): AED 150–250 per person
Usually includes hotel pickup, 4×4 dune bashing, photo stops, sandboarding, and a short camel ride. - Evening Standard (BBQ & shows): AED 85–220 per person
Seat-in-coach or shared 4×4, dune bashing, sandboarding, short camel ride, soft drinks, BBQ buffet, live shows (varies by season/Ramadan). - VIP / Premium Seating: +AED 50–120 per person
Upfront “VIP” table service at camp, often a separate seating area, and served dinner. - Private Desert Safari (your vehicle): AED 600–1,200+ per car (up to 6 guests)
Best for families, seniors, or those seeking a gentler drive or flexible scheduling. - Overnight Safari (with camping): AED 350–650 per person
Evening program, overnight tents, and breakfast; quad bikes are usually an additional cost. - Quad Bike add-on (ATV): AED 100–350 per person (20–45 mins, fenced track or open area)
- Dune Buggy add-on (2/4-seater): AED 700–1,400+ per buggy per hour (guided)
- Hot Air Balloon (sunrise): AED 1,000–1,500+ per person (separate from standard safaris)
Note: Dubai adds 5% VAT to most tour prices.
What’s usually included in the price
- Hotel pickup & drop-off (Dubai city limits; distant locations may incur a surcharge)
- 4×4 dune bashing with a licensed driver (Toyota Land Cruiser / Nissan Patrol, etc.)
- Sandboarding (boards provided)
- Camel ride (typically a short loop; longer treks cost extra)
- Photography stops on the dunes
- Evening camps (for evening safaris): BBQ buffet dinner, water/soft drinks, live entertainment (belly dance/Tanoura/LED shows—entertainment varies during Ramadan and public holidays)
Standard extras (not in the base price)
- ATVs / Quad bikes / Dune buggies (always charged separately unless buying a combo)
- Long camel treks, falcon photos, horse rides
- VIP seating/table service at the camp
- Shisha at the table (the designated shisha corner is sometimes included)
- Specialty beverages (fresh juices, coffee, mocktails; alcohol is venue-dependent)
- Photo/video packages, costumes, scarves, henna upgrades
- Pickups from Abu Dhabi/Sharjah, private drivers, or off-route locations
Are there any free options?
- Truly free organized safaris? No.
- Possible “no-cost” to you scenarios:
- A hotel promotion, corporate event, or credit card reward may cover the cost of your tour.
- Infants/toddlers (often under 3 years) may join free on seat-in-coach evening safaris (policies vary).
- Driving your own 4×4 into the desert is free, but it’s not a guided safari, and it comes with safety, equipment, and permitting considerations.
How to choose the right package
Morning vs Evening:
- Morning = cooler temps, photography, no shows/dinner, back by midday.
- Evening = the whole “camp” experience, including dinner and performances.
Shared vs Private:
- Shared keeps costs low.
- Private is best for families with kids, seniors, or anyone who wants a milder drive.
Adventure level:
- Add quad bikes (individual control, suitable for tracks or open areas) or dune buggies (guided convoys, offering more power per vehicle).
Seasonality:
- Prices rise in peak months (November–March), dip in summer, and fluctuate during Ramadan.
Practical policies & safety
- Age & health: Children typically 4–6+ for dune bashing; infants and pregnant guests should avoid dune bashing—choose a private, gentle drive or camp-only option.
- Insurance & Licensing: Book with licensed operators; ensure vehicles and guides are insured.
- What to wear: Closed shoes, comfortable clothing; bring a light jacket on winter nights.
- What to bring: Phone/camera, sunscreen, hat, cash/ card for extras, ID if requested.
Example with a reputable local operator
If you prefer a local, Dubai-based company, Desert Leap Safari offers standard, VIP, private, and adventure add-on options. Typical inclusions include hotel pickup, dune bashing at the Red Dunes, sandboarding, a short camel ride, and (for evening tours) a BBQ dinner accompanied by live shows. Seasonal promotions can bring evening packages into the AED ~150–250 range, with quad bikes and dune buggies available as add-ons. (Ask for current deals and child policies.)
Quick budgeting checklist
- Base package (per person or car)
- 5% VAT
- Any VIP seating or private car upgrade
- ATV/buggy time (if you want it)
- Optional extras (drinks, photos, long camel ride)
- Out-of-area pickup surcharge (if applicable)
Bottom line
A Dubai desert safari isn’t free—but you can tailor it to any budget, from value evening safaris to luxury private experiences with adventure add-ons. Decide on your must-haves (shows vs. dinner/dinner vs. sunrise, minimalism, quad vs. buggy/buggy vs. scenic drives) and pick a licensed operator with apparent inclusions and transparent pricing.
FAQs
Are desert safari tours in Dubai free of charge?
No. You pay for transport, guides, dune bashing, camp access, dinner, and insurance.
How much does a standard evening desert safari cost?
Typically, AED 85–220 per person, including pickup, dune bashing, dinner, and shows.
What’s included in the price?
Hotel pickup/drop-off, 4×4 dune bashing, sandboarding, a short camel ride, soft drinks, and (evening only) BBQ dinner with live shows.
What isn’t included by default?
ATVs/quad bikes, dune buggies, VIP/table service, specialty drinks, long camel treks, photos, and out-of-area pickups.
Are kids free on desert safaris?
Infants often ride free; child policies vary. Many operators require children aged four and above for dune bashing.
Is a private desert safari more expensive?
Yes—usually AED 600–1,200+ per car (up to 6 guests), but you get flexible timing and a gentler drive option.
Do prices change during Ramadan or summer?
Summer discounts are standard; however, entertainment options may be limited during the Ramadan period. Always check inclusions.
Can I drive my car to the desert to save money?
You can, but that’s not a guided safari. You’ll miss insured activities, licensed drivers, and camp access.
Are there any hidden charges I should be aware of?
Look for 5% VAT, VIP seating fees, vehicle add-ons (such as ATVs or buggies), and pickup surcharges outside of central Dubai.
Morning or evening—which is cheaper?
Morning safaris (without dinner/shows) are usually less expensive; evenings offer the whole camp experience.