Yes, desert safari tours are open during Ramadan in Dubai. Licensed tour operators continue operating with adjusted timings and limited entertainment to respect the holy month. Core activities like dune driving, camel rides, sandboarding and desert camps remain available.
Is Desert Safari Allowed During Ramadan in Dubai?
Yes. Desert safari is officially allowed during Ramadan and is commonly booked by tourists and residents.
Dubai remains fully operational for tourism during Ramadan. Tourism authorities regulate desert safaris, and licensed operators follow cultural and safety guidelines throughout the month.
What Changes in a Desert Safari During Ramadan?
The overall experience remains the same, but a few elements are adjusted out of respect for Ramadan.
What Usually Changes
- Dinner is served after sunset
- Music is limited or paused during fasting hours
- Belly dance may be unavailable on certain days
What Stays the Same
- Dune bashing with trained drivers
- Camel rides and sandboarding
- Sunset photo stops
- Fire show and Tanoura dance (in most camps)
Changes depend on official UAE guidelines, which can vary slightly each year.
Are Evening Desert Safaris Available During Ramadan?
Yes. Evening desert safaris operate normally during Ramadan and are the most popular option.
Evening tours are preferred because:
- Activities start after sunset
- Dinner aligns with Iftar timing
- Temperatures are cooler
- The experience is calmer and more relaxed
Morning desert safaris also continue without restrictions.
Desert safari in Dubai during Ramadan follows normal tour timings. The only changes involve food service and live entertainment, which are adjusted to respect fasting hours.
Is Food Included in Desert Safari During Ramadan?
Yes. Dinner is included but served after sunset.
Desert safari timings during Ramadan are generally the same as on normal days.
Most licensed desert safari tours in Dubai operate on their regular schedules, including:
- Afternoon pickup (usually between 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM)
- Sunset dune drive
- Evening desert camp visit
- Drop-off in the evening
The main difference is not the timing, but how food and entertainment are handled with respect to Ramadan.
Typical Ramadan Dinner Setup
- BBQ dinner after Maghrib prayer
- Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
- Water, soft drinks, tea, and coffee
- Alcohol is usually not served
Guests are informed about meal timing in advance.
Are Live Shows Allowed During Ramadan?
Some entertainment continues, while others may be limited.
Commonly Available
- Fire show
- Tanoura performance
Sometimes Restricted
- Belly dance (depending on date and camp location)
Licensed camps strictly follow government instructions.
Is Desert Safari Less Crowded During Ramadan?
Yes. Ramadan is generally quieter, especially on weekdays.
This results in:
- Less crowded camps
- More peaceful desert atmosphere
- Better sunset photos
- More personal attention from guides
Many families prefer Ramadan for this reason.
Is Desert Safari Suitable for Families During Ramadan?
Yes. Ramadan desert safaris are family-friendly and often calmer than peak season tours.
- Light dune driving available on request
- Short camel rides are suitable for children
- Cultural, respectful environment
- Slower pace at camps
It is a good option for first-time visitors.
Can Non-Muslims Join Desert Safari During Ramadan?
Yes. Non-Muslims are welcome to join desert safaris during Ramadan.
Visitors are only expected to:
- Dress modestly
- Avoid eating or drinking in public during fasting hours
- Respect local customs
Tour guides explain all guidelines clearly.
Best Time to Book Desert Safari in Ramadan
The best times are:
- 🌙 After Iftar (recommended)
- 🌄 Early morning for a quiet experience
Because evening slots are limited, booking is advised.
What to Confirm Before Booking a Ramadan Desert Safari
Before booking, always confirm:
- Pickup and drop-off timing
- Dinner serving time
- Available live shows
- Camp type (standard or premium)
- Shared or private tour option
This ensures a smooth experience.
“For a broader understanding of seasonal weather, crowd levels, and travel conditions, you can refer to our seasonal timing guide.”
➡ Link seasonal timing guide to
https://desertleapsafari.com/best-time-for-desert-safari/
Final Verdict:
Desert safari is open during Ramadan in Dubai, with minor timing and entertainment adjustments. For travelers seeking a quieter, culturally respectful, and well-organized desert experience, Ramadan is actually an excellent time to go—especially when booking with a licensed local tour operator.
FAQs: Is Desert Safari Open in Ramadan
Is dune bashing allowed during Ramadan?
Yes. Dune bashing operates normally with trained drivers and approved 4×4 vehicles.
Is the desert safari cheaper during Ramadan?
Prices are often stable, but availability is better due to lower crowds.
Do desert safaris run daily in Ramadan?
Yes. Most licensed operators run tours daily, subject to availability.
Can I book a private desert safari during Ramadan?
Yes. Private tours are available and recommended for families and groups.