A desert safari in Dubai is a must-do experience for every visitor. From thrilling dune bashing to magical sunsets and cultural performances, it’s a journey full of excitement. But if it’s your first time going on a desert safari, you need to be well-prepared for a safe and joyful trip.
In this blog, I will guide you on what you must carry and avoid, along with some basic precautionary and safety tips to make your desert adventure smooth and unforgettable.
1. Were comfortable cotton cloth and flat sandals.
During a desert safari, you must wear comfortable and breathable cotton clothing to stay cool in the heat. Avoid wearing black-colored outfits, as they absorb more heat. It’s also best to wear flat sandals or slippers—wearing high heels or boots can make it difficult to walk on the sand.
- Avoid black colored dress
- Avoid shorts to prevent extra heat absorption
- Avoid skin fit and tight dresses
2.stay hydrate
- Drink plenty of mineral water – It’s the best way to stay hydrated during the desert safari.
- Avoid soda or alcohol – These can dehydrate your body instead of helping
- The desert sun is very strong – Your body loses fluids through sweat and urine.
- Keep sipping water regularly – Don’t wait until you feel thirsty.
- Traveling with a baby – Always carry their feeding bottle and enough water for them.
- Tender coconut water is a natural refresher – Great for staying cool and refreshed during your trip.
3.take sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat
- Wearing sunglass helps to Protect your eyes from harsh sunlight and UV rays
- Apply sunscreen it will helps to Prevents sunburn and skin damage under direct sun exposure and alsoProtects your skin from harmful UV radiation
- Wearing sunglasses also Help you see clearly in bright, reflective sand conditions
- Hats block direct sunlight, which keeps your head cooler. This helps prevent heat exhaustion or sunstroke, especially during dune bashing or camel rides, and also helps to match their desert outfits, making their travel photos more appealing.
4.Prone to motion sickness peoples
Before going on a desert safari, individuals who are prone to motion sickness should consult their doctor to prevent any discomfort during the trip. If prescribed, they should take the recommended medicine before the safari. This helps ensure a happy and enjoyable experience without health issues.
They should also:
- Eat a light snack such as toast or a banana before the safari — avoid spicy or oily food.
- Carry a plastic bag and tissues in case of nausea or vomiting.
- Sit in the front seat of the vehicle if possible, as this reduces motion impact.
- Stay hydrated by sipping water regularly.
- Avoid looking at mobile screens, instead focus on the road or distant views.
- Carry ginger candy or lemon slices, which can help calm the stomach naturally.
5.Follow our guide instructions and respect UAE rules
Trust me, guys – Dubai is one of the biggest and most developed nations in the world. It is an Islamic country, so if you’re visiting for the first time, you must respect and follow some important Islamic rules, especially during Ramadan and prayer times.
- Do not drink alcohol in public – it’s strictly prohibited, especially in the Sharjah area.
- Always behave politely with everyone, especially towards women – showing respect is very important.
- Dress modestly in public places, especially in malls and traditional areas.
- Avoid public displays of affection, as it is considered disrespectful in the local culture.
When you’re on a desert safari, remember:
- Always follow your safari guide’s instructions for your safety and enjoyment.
- Wear your seatbelt during dune bashing.
- Do not step out of the vehicle without your guide’s permission.
- Follow safety guidelines for camel riding and sandboarding.
- Stick to the time schedule given by the guide to avoid delays for other
5.passenger with zero knowledge about English
People with zero knowledge of English must ensure they have a translator with them for a smooth desert safari experience. If traveling in a large group, a translator is often available. Otherwise, using English translation apps can be very helpful.
- Download offline translation apps like Google Translate in advance, as network coverage may be weak in the desert.
- Learn a few basic English phrases such as “help,” “water,” or “toilet” before the trip.
- Inform your safari operator in advance about your language preference so they can make arrangements.
- Follow the guide’s instructions carefully, using body language or visuals if needed.
- Stick close to your group to avoid miscommunication or getting lost
What is the best time to go on a desert safari?
Winter season start with November to march and end of the march the summer is start the temperature is very high during summer time
During summer | During winter |
The price is much low | Price is higher |
The temperature is high around 50 degree celsius so cant enjoy the tour and fun activities it also causes heat exhaustion, dehydration, sunstroke. | Weather is so good around 24 degree at day time and night around 10-15 degree celsius at night time so it is much useful for overnight camp stay customers |
Not advised for travel with infants and toddler and also senior citizen may cause health issue | Recommended for all passengers |
Thoughts
Guys, always add a desert safari trip to your bucket list at least once in your lifetime! It made me feel free, relaxed, and adventurous. Activities like dune bashing and camel riding gave me a sense of excitement and strength.
At the desert camp, I tasted a variety of Arabic dishes like kheema and BBQ, and I got to learn a lot about UAE culture. The henna tattoo made my hands look even more beautiful, and I enjoyed various traditional dance performances like the fire show, belly dance, and more.
Sleeping under the stars in the night camp was an unforgettable experience. The desert safari wasn’t just a trip, it was a memory I’ll cherish forever.
Is a desert safari safe to do with infants and senior citizens?
If you are traveling with children or senior citizens, always inform your tour coordinator in advance and request a child safety seat if needed.
Dune bashing is a thrilling activity included in most desert safaris. It involves fast driving over sand dunes, causing the vehicle to bounce—similar to riding a horse.
Carrying a baby without a seatbelt or proper child seat during dune bashing can be very dangerous and may lead to injury.
Senior citizens may also feel discomfort or strain during dune bashing due to back or joint issues. It’s important to consult with your tour operator about their ability to participate safely.
Consider booking a private or customized safari with a smoother ride or skip dune bashing if you are traveling with elderly family members or infants.
Always ensure everyone wears their seatbelt, and never hold a baby on your lap during the dune ride.
Carry necessary medications, snacks, baby food, and feeding bottles to ensure comfort throughout the trip.
Choose evening or morning safaris when temperatures are lower, especially when traveling with sensitive age groups.
Beware of the Dubai desert safari scam”A recent YouTube video (around 1 year old) highlights tourists being misled by low-cost safari operators. It exposes upsells for dune bashing, minimal camel rides, and poor customer service at cheaper camps.
Common Complaints from Reddit (within last 6 months)
From r/dubai, February–April 2025
Visitors warn about tourist trap-style safaris booked for AED 260:
“It turned out it was a desert camp, not a tented hotel … they tried to scam us into dune bashing for an exorbitant price and the camel ride was literally 1 minute long.”
Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism+15Reddit+15Platinum Heritage+15Reddit
Additional warnings include:
Overcrowding, forced shopping stops, and inferior shows.
Misleading marketing with hidden on‑site fees and shortened experiences.
Conclusion:
Is Dubai desert safari safe or not?
Of course, desert safari is one of the most adventurous and joyful experiences in Dubai. Everyone should try it at least once if they get the chance to visit. It’s full of fun, thrill, and cultural highlights. For a smooth experience, always communicate clearly with your tour coordinator before the trip.
If you’re looking for a luxury safari and camp, go for a premium or private option. However, if you’re on a budget, shared safari packages are also available. In my personal opinion, it’s better to choose a private car when traveling with babies or senior citizens for extra comfort and flexibility.
Always discuss with your tour guide what is included in your package and what is not to avoid any confusion or extra charges during the safari. Especially at the desert camp, premium guests enjoy special BBQ dinner service, private tables, unlimited shisha (a traditional Arabic smoking experience) with different flavors, and sometimes even upgraded seating areas.
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for desert weather. Avoid heavy fabrics.
Carry a light jacket as it might get cooler in the evening.
Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime protection.
Arrive on time to enjoy all planned activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and cultural shows.
Bring cash if you want to try extra activities like quad biking or souvenir shopping.
Stay hydrated, especially if you’re traveling in summer.
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