Desert Safari 101: What to Expect in Dubai

A desert safari is one of the most popular half-day trips out of Dubai, and it's easy to see why. Most tours start in the late afternoon with dune bashing, an exhilarating (and occasionally stomach-flipping) ride over the sand dunes in a 4x4.

After the drive, most packages stop for photos at sunset, when the dunes turn a deep orange-red that's genuinely worth the early start. Camel rides are usually offered next, a slower, calmer contrast to the dune bashing.

The evening typically wraps up at a desert camp with a barbecue dinner, live entertainment like a tanoura dance performance, and shisha for those who want it. If you get motion sick easily, ask your tour operator about a smoother "sunset only" option that skips the more intense dune bashing.

Pack a light jacket even if it's hot during the day - desert temperatures drop noticeably once the sun goes down.