If you’re planning a family trip to the UAE, booking a private desert safari tour Dubai can be one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences for everyone. Unlike shared tours, private safaris offer personalized services, flexibility in timing, and activities tailored to your family’s preferences. Whether you’re traveling with kids, teens, or older adults, a well-planned desert safari can cater to all ages and adventure levels.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose and book the best private desert safari tour Dubai for your family, what to expect, and tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.
A private desert safari tour Dubai offers a level of comfort and exclusivity that shared tours simply can’t match. Here are a few compelling reasons to go private:
Customization: You get to choose the schedule, activities, and level of adventure.
Privacy: No strangers tagging along means more quality time with your loved ones.
Comfort: Better vehicle arrangements, more spacious seating, and dedicated guides.
Safety: Extra attention to your family’s specific needs, especially if traveling with young children or elderly members.
This type of tour allows you to focus on what matters most—creating unforgettable moments in the Arabian sands.
Prices for a private desert safari tour Dubai vary depending on the company, tour length, and luxury level. On average, expect to pay between AED 700 and AED 2,000 per vehicle. Decide on a budget early on to help narrow your choices.
Desert safaris are available during three main time slots:
Morning Safari: Best for cooler temperatures and shorter outings. Great for families with young kids who may not want to stay out late.
Evening Safari: Includes sunset views, traditional dinner, and cultural performances like belly dancing and fire shows.
Overnight Safari: For the truly adventurous, this includes camping under the stars and waking up in the desert.
Evening safaris are typically the most popular for families due to the variety of entertainment and cooler temperatures.
Not all tour operators are equal. Look for providers with:
High ratings and reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Google.
Licensed and experienced guides.
Clean, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles.
Clear safety protocols and insurance coverage.
Some well-reviewed providers in Dubai include Platinum Heritage, OceanAir Travels, and Desert Safari Dubai Tours.
When evaluating tour packages, make sure they include elements suited to all age groups, such as:
Car seats for toddlers.
Easy dune rides (not too bumpy).
Restrooms and shaded seating at camps.
Activities like camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting, and falcon displays.
Always confirm in advance whether your chosen tour can accommodate your family’s unique needs.
A private desert safari tour Dubai offers a long list of exciting activities. You don’t need to include all of them—just pick those most suitable for your family:
Dune Bashing: A thrilling ride over sand dunes in a 4×4. Make sure to let your driver know your comfort level.
Camel Rides: A fun, slow-paced ride ideal for all ages.
Sandboarding: Like snowboarding but on sand—popular with teens and older kids.
Falconry: Learn about the traditional art of falconry with live demonstrations.
BBQ Dinner: Enjoy authentic Middle Eastern cuisine under the stars.
Live Entertainment: Belly dancing, Tanoura shows, and fire performances are common during evening safaris.
Stargazing: For overnight tours, enjoy breathtaking views of the night sky in a pollution-free environment.
Here’s a quick checklist to make your experience comfortable:
Lightweight clothing (long sleeves to protect from sun).
Hats and sunglasses.
Sunscreen.
Comfortable shoes or sandals.
Light jackets for evening safaris.
Cameras or smartphones for photos.
Wet wipes and hand sanitizers.
Any medications or special items for children.
Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (October to March).
Confirm all details, including pickup time, duration, and included activities.
Notify the tour provider of any allergies, medical conditions, or special requirements.
Avoid heavy meals before dune bashing to reduce the risk of motion sickness.
Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially in the warmer months.
Tip your guide if you’re satisfied with the service—they often go the extra mile for private tours.
Booking a private desert safari tour Dubai for your family is more than just another tourist activity—it’s an immersive cultural and adventure experience that everyone will talk about for years. From golden dune landscapes to traditional Bedouin hospitality, this type of tour allows your family to experience the true spirit of the Arabian desert in comfort and safety.