Many visitors ask the same question before booking: Is Desert Safari Dubai free?
The short answer is no. While Dubai’s desert is open to the public, a desert safari is a paid experience that includes licensed transport, professional drivers, safety coverage, activities, and camp access.
This guide explains desert safari prices in Dubai, what’s included, standard extras, and how to avoid hidden charges—so you can book with confidence in 2026.
Is Desert Safari Dubai Free or Paid? (Quick Answer)
A desert safari in Dubai is a paid tour. You’re paying for:
- Licensed 4×4 vehicles built for sand driving
- Professional, trained drivers
- Dune bashing and desert activities
- Camp access, food, and live shows (for evening tours)
- Insurance and safety support
Driving into the desert on your own is free, but that is not a safari and does not include activities, insurance, or camp access.
Typical Desert Safari Prices in Dubai (AED)
Prices vary based on season, pickup type, and inclusions. Below are realistic 2026 ranges.
Morning Desert Safari (No Dinner)
AED 150–250 per person
Includes hotel pickup, 4×4 dune bashing, sandboarding, photo stops, and a short camel ride. Best for short stays.
Evening Desert Safari (BBQ & Shows)
AED 85–220 per person
Shared or seat-in-coach pickup, dune bashing, sandboarding, camel ride, soft drinks, BBQ buffet, and live entertainment (subject to season/Ramadan).
VIP / Premium Seating
+ AED 50–120 per person
Front-row seating, table service, and a quieter dining area at the desert camp.
Private Desert Safari (Private 4×4)
AED 600–1,200+ per vehicle (up to 6 guests)
Ideal for families, seniors, or guests wanting a gentler drive and flexible timing.
Overnight Desert Safari
AED 350–650 per person
Evening program plus overnight camping and breakfast. Quad bikes are usually extra.
Adventure Add-Ons (Optional)
- Quad Bike (ATV): AED 100–350 (20–45 minutes)
- Dune Buggy: AED 700–1,400+ per buggy per hour
- Hot Air Balloon: AED 1,000–1,500+ per person (separate experience)
📌 Note: A 5% VAT applies to most tour prices in Dubai.
What’s Included in a Desert Safari Package
Most standard packages include:
- Hotel pickup & drop-off (Dubai city limits)
- 4×4 dune bashing with a licensed driver
- Sandboarding equipment
- Short camel ride
- Photography stops on the dunes
- Evening safari extras: BBQ dinner, water/soft drinks, and live shows
Entertainment may vary during Ramadan and public holidays.
| Safari Type | Free or Paid | Includes | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning Desert Safari | Paid | 4×4 dune bashing, sandboarding, camel ride | AED 150–250 |
| Evening Desert Safari | Paid | Dune bashing, BBQ dinner, live shows, camp | AED 85–220 |
| VIP Desert Safari | Paid | Premium seating, table service, dinner | + AED 50–120 |
| Private Desert Safari | Paid | Private 4×4, flexible timing | AED 600–1,200+ |
| Overnight Desert Safari | Paid | Camp stay, dinner, breakfast | AED 350–650 |
| Self-drive desert visit | Free | No activities or camp access | Dune bashing, BBQ dinner, live shows, and camp |
What’s Usually NOT Included (Extra Cost)
- Quad bikes, ATVs, or dune buggies
- Long camel treks or falcon photography
- VIP seating or private table service
- Table shisha (sometimes free in common areas)
- Specialty drinks or alcohol (venue-dependent)
- Photo/video packages and costumes
- Pickups from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or remote areas
Always confirm extras before booking.
Are There Any Free Desert Safari Options?
No free organised desert safaris exist.
However, you may experience a safari at no direct cost if:
- It’s included in a hotel promotion or corporate event
- Paid via credit card rewards or loyalty points
- Infants (usually under 3) join free on some shared tours (varies by operator)
Driving your own 4×4 into the desert is free, but it is not a guided safari and comes with safety and permit risks.
How to Choose the Right Desert Safari Package
Morning vs Evening
- Morning: Short, cooler, no dinner or shows
- Evening: Full experience with camp, food, and entertainment
Shared vs Private
- Shared: Budget-friendly
- Private: Flexible, safer for kids and seniors
Adventure Level
- Quad bikes = solo riding, track or open desert
- Dune buggies = guided convoy, more power and control
Seasonality
- Peak prices: November–March
- Discounts: Summer months
- Ramadan: Fewer shows, adjusted schedules
Safety, Policies & Practical Tips
- Age & health: Children usually 4–6+ for dune bashing; pregnant guests should avoid it
- Insurance: Book only with licensed operators
- What to wear: Closed shoes, comfortable clothes, a light jacket in winter
- What to bring: Phone, sunscreen, cash/card, ID if requested
Example: A Trusted Local Operator
A Dubai-based company like Desert Leap Safari offers standard, VIP, private, and adventure add-on options. Typical inclusions are hotel pickup, Red Dunes dune bashing, sandboarding, a short camel ride, and, for evening tours, a BBQ dinner with live shows. Seasonal promotions often bring evening safaris into the AED 150–250 range, with quad bikes and dune buggies available as optional extras.
Quick Budgeting Checklist
- Base safari price
- 5% VAT
- VIP seating or private vehicle upgrade
- Quad bike or dune buggy time
- Optional extras (photos, drinks, long camel ride)
- Out-of-area pickup surcharge
Bottom Line
A Dubai desert safari isn’t free, but it can fit almost any budget—from affordable evening safaris to luxury private experiences with adventure add-ons. Decide what matters most to you, check inclusions carefully, and book with a licensed operator for a safe and enjoyable experience.
For more details and updated safari options, visit https://www.desertleapsafari.com.
FAQs: Is Desert Safari Dubai Free or Paid?
Are desert safari tours in Dubai free?
No. You pay for transport, drivers, activities, camp access, dinner, and insurance.
How much does an evening desert safari cost?
Usually AED 80–220 per person, depending on inclusions.
What’s included in the price?
Pickup, dune bashing, sandboarding, short camel ride, soft drinks, and evening BBQ with shows.
What costs extra?
Quad bikes, dune buggies, VIP seating, specialty drinks, photos, and remote pickups.
Are kids free on desert safaris?
Infants often join for free; child policies vary by operator.
Is a private desert safari more expensive?
Yes, but it offers flexible timing and a gentler drive.
Do prices change in summer or Ramadan?
Yes. Summer discounts are standard; entertainment may be limited during Ramadan.
Can I drive my own car to save money?
You can, but it’s not a guided safari and excludes activities and insurance.
Morning or evening—which is cheaper?
Morning safaris are usually cheaper; evening safaris offer the whole experience.