Dubai Desert Safari for Family: Packages Prices & Activities 2026
A desert safari in Dubai is one of the most popular activities for families visiting the UAE. It combines adventure, culture, and food all in one trip into the Arabian Desert.
This guide covers everything a family needs to know before booking. From age limits and safety to package prices, timings, and what to pack, every question is answered here.
DXB Tourisma is a DTCM-licensed tour operator based in Dubai. We run family desert safari packages designed specifically for parents, kids, toddlers, infants, and grandparents.
What Is a Family Desert Safari in Dubai?
A family desert safari is a guided tour into the golden sand dunes of the Dubai desert. It usually lasts 6 to 7 hours and includes a mix of activities and a Bedouin-style camp experience.
Unlike adventure-focused desert tours, a family safari is designed for all age groups. Dune bashing intensity, activity selection, and timing can all be adjusted based on who is in your group.
Most evening family safari packages include:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned 4×4 Land Cruiser
- Dune bashing (adjustable intensity)
- Camel ride
- Sandboarding
- Henna painting
- Falconry demonstration
- Tanoura dance and belly dance show
- BBQ dinner buffet with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
- Arabic coffee, dates, and soft drinks
Morning family safari packages focus more on desert activities and do not include the campsite entertainment or BBQ dinner.
Types of Family Desert Safari in Dubai
Evening Family Desert Safari
The evening safari is the most popular choice for families. Pickup is usually between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM. You arrive back at your hotel between 9:00 PM and 9:30 PM.
This package includes the full desert camp experience: dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, cultural shows, and a BBQ dinner under the open desert sky. It is ideal for families with children aged 4 and above.
Morning Family Desert Safari
Morning safaris run from 6 AM to 11 AM. The desert is cooler during this time, which makes it a better option for families visiting Dubai in summer or for parents with toddlers who nap in the afternoon.
Morning packages typically include dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, and breakfast. There is no campsite entertainment or dinner. This is the best choice for families with very young children.
Overnight Family Desert Safari
Overnight safaris let your family sleep in a traditional Bedouin-style camp in the desert. You get to stargaze after dinner and watch the sunrise over the dunes the next morning. Breakfast is included before return.
This option works well for families with older children and teenagers. It is not recommended for infants or toddlers due to the long duration.
Private Family Desert Safari
A private safari gives your family exclusive use of one 4×4 Land Cruiser. You can control the dune bashing speed, choose your activities, adjust return timing, and request car seats or baby boosters in advance.
Private safaris cost more than shared group options but offer the best experience for families with infants, toddlers, elderly guests, or anyone with special requirements.
Dubai Family Desert Safari Price Guide (2026)
Below is a general price guide. Prices vary depending on the operator, package type, and group size. DXB Tourisma offers competitive family rates. Contact us for a custom quote.
| Package Type | Price Range (AED) | Best For |
| Shared Evening Safari | AED 99 – AED 200 per person | Adults and older kids (4+) |
| Private Evening Safari | AED 799 – AED 1,499 per vehicle (6-7 guests) | Families with toddlers or infants |
| Morning Safari (Shared) | 149 per person | Summer visits, young children |
| Morning Safari (Private) | AED 499-699 per vehicle | Toddlers, infants, summer |
| Overnight Safari (Private) | AED 900-1,500 per vehicle | Older kids, teenagers |
| VIP Desert Safari | AED 149-349 per person | Luxury family experience |
Children under 3 years old travel free on most DXB Tourisma family packages. Children aged 3 to 10 are charged a reduced rate. Confirm pricing at time of booking.
Age Guide: Who Can Do What on a Family Desert Safari
This is the most common concern for parents booking a desert safari in Dubai. Here is a clear breakdown by age group:
| Age Group | Dune Bashing | Camel Ride | Sandboarding | Camp Activities |
| Infants (0-2 years) | Not allowed | With parent supervision | Not suitable | Fully welcome |
| Toddlers (2-3 years) | Soft drive only or skip | Yes, with parent | Not recommended | Fully welcome |
| Children (4-12 years) | Yes (family mode) | Yes | Yes | Fully welcome |
| Teenagers (13+) | Yes (any mode) | Yes | Yes | Fully welcome |
| Adults | Yes (any mode) | Yes | Yes | Fully welcome |
| Elderly guests | Soft drive or skip | Optional | Optional | Fully welcome |
| Pregnant women | Not recommended | Optional | Not recommended | Fully welcome |
Quad biking has a minimum age of 16 years on most Dubai desert safari tours. Dune buggy rides may also have age and weight restrictions. Confirm before booking.
Is Desert Safari in Dubai Safe for Families?
Yes. Family desert safaris in Dubai are safe when booked with a DTCM-licensed tour operator. All licensed operators in Dubai must follow safety regulations set by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.
Here is what reputable operators like DXB Tourisma do to keep your family safe:
- All drivers are licensed by the UAE government for desert safari operations
- Vehicles are fully insured and regularly maintained
- 4×4 Land Cruisers are fitted with roll cages and seatbelts
- Baby booster seats and car seats are available on request for private bookings
- Safety briefings are conducted before dune bashing begins
- Dune bashing intensity can be adjusted to eco mode, family mode, or sports mode
- Infants can skip dune bashing entirely and be taken directly to the desert camp
- Experienced drivers read terrain and adjust based on passenger comfort
The key safety rule: book a private safari if you are travelling with infants, toddlers, or guests with medical conditions. On a private vehicle, you control the pace.
Dune Bashing Modes Explained for Families
If you book a private family desert safari, most operators offer three driving modes for the dune bashing session:
- Eco Mode: Smooth, slow drive across the dunes. Suitable for infants, toddlers, pregnant women, and elderly guests. No sharp turns or steep drops.
- Family Mode: Gentle dips and mild excitement. Good for children aged 3 to 10 who want a small taste of adventure without extreme thrills.
- Sports Mode: Full dune bashing experience with steep dunes, sharp turns, and high speed. Suitable for older children, teenagers, and adults who enjoy adrenaline.
On a shared group safari, you cannot select your mode. If intensity control matters to your family, book a private vehicle.
What to Pack for a Family Desert Safari in Dubai
Clothing
- Light, breathable clothing: linen or cotton trousers and shirts work well
- Women can wear salwar suits, joggers with t-shirts, or loose trousers
- Men can wear trousers or joggers with a shirt or t-shirt
- Bring a light jacket or layer for the evening: desert temperatures drop after sunset
- Closed shoes or trainers: sand can be extremely hot underfoot during the day
- Avoid open sandals for dune bashing or sandboarding
For Kids and Babies
- Sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher
- Wide-brim hats for children
- Sunglasses for all family members
- Extra water: bring more than you think you will need
- Wet wipes: sand gets everywhere
- A spare set of clothes for young children
- Small healthy snacks for toddlers and young kids
- Any medications your child takes regularly
General
- Fully charged phone for photos and WhatsApp contact with your driver
- Small amount of cash in AED for optional add-on activities
- Portable phone charger if you photograph frequently
Best Time of Year for a Family Desert Safari in Dubai
Winter (October to April) is the best season for a family desert safari in Dubai. Daytime temperatures are pleasant and evenings are cool enough to enjoy outdoor camp activities comfortably.
Summer (May to September) is possible but requires planning. Morning safaris starting at 6 AM are the safest option during summer months because temperatures are lower. Avoid booking an evening safari for very young children during summer as daytime heat can be intense.
| Season | Temperature | Recommendation |
| October – November | 25-35°C | Excellent. Peak season begins. Book early. |
| December – February | 15-25°C | Best time for families. Cool evenings, ideal for camp. |
| March – April | 25-35°C | Very good. Slightly warming but still comfortable. |
| May – September | 35-45°C+ | Morning safari only. Not ideal for evening trips with young kids. |
Where Does the Family Desert Safari Take Place in Dubai?
Most family desert safaris in Dubai take place in two key locations:
- Lahbab Desert (Red Dunes Area): Located about 45 minutes from Downtown Dubai. Known for its tall, red-coloured dunes. This is the most popular area for dune bashing because of the dramatic dune height and shape.
- Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve: A protected desert area southeast of Dubai. Known for its natural beauty, wildlife sightings including Arabian oryx, and less crowded experience. Ideal for families looking for a more relaxed, nature-focused safari.
Both locations are accessible from all major areas of Dubai including Downtown, Dubai Marina, JBR, Jumeirah, and also from Sharjah and Ajman. Hotel pickup is included in all DXB Tourisma family packages.
Family Desert Safari Activities: What to Expect
Dune Bashing
Dune bashing is a 30-minute off-road drive across the sand dunes in a modified 4×4 Land Cruiser. It is one of the most well-known parts of any Dubai desert safari. The driver navigates steep dunes, creating a roller-coaster effect. Intensity is adjustable for families.
Camel Ride
A short camel ride at the desert camp is a highlight for children of all ages. Young children can ride with a parent. The ride is gentle, slow, and managed by experienced camel handlers. It is one of the most photographed moments of any family desert safari in Dubai.
Sandboarding
Sandboarding lets you slide down sand dunes on a board, similar to snowboarding. Most camps provide boards. It is suitable for children aged 5 and above. Young kids can also sit on a board and be guided down smaller dune slopes with a parent holding them.
Falconry Demonstration
A trained falcon show is a cultural highlight of the desert safari experience. Your family can watch, photograph, and in some cases hold a trained falcon. Kids find this especially engaging. It is one of the most unique elements of Emirati heritage available at most desert camps.
Henna Painting
Traditional Arabic henna patterns are applied to hands and arms by camp artists. This is suitable for older children, teenagers, and adults. It is a gentle, non-invasive activity that most children enjoy watching or participating in.
Tanoura Dance and Belly Dance
The evening camp entertainment includes a Tanoura dance (a traditional spinning dance performed by a male dancer wearing a colourful skirt) and a belly dance performance. There may also be a fire dance. These shows run during the BBQ dinner and are family friendly.
BBQ Dinner Buffet
The evening desert camp includes a BBQ dinner buffet with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Arabic coffee, dates, soft drinks, and water are included. The setting is a traditional Bedouin-style camp under the open desert sky.
Private Safari vs Shared Safari: Which Is Better for Families?
| Factor | Private Family Safari | Shared Group Safari |
| Vehicle | Exclusive 4×4 for your family only | Shared with other tourists |
| Dune bashing control | Full control of speed and intensity | Fixed intensity for all passengers |
| Car seat / baby seat | Available on request | Not available |
| Flexibility | Adjust timing, skip activities, return early | Fixed schedule for all passengers |
| Group size | Up to 6-7 guests per vehicle | Mixed groups, usually up to 30 at camp |
| Price | Higher (AED 650-1,050 per vehicle) | Lower (AED 99-200 per person) |
| Best for | Infants, toddlers, special needs, elderly | Children 4+, adults, groups |
Recommendation: If your family includes infants, toddlers under 3, pregnant guests, or elderly family members, book a private safari. The extra cost is worth it for the comfort, control, and safety it provides.
How to Book a Family Desert Safari with DXB Tourisma
Booking your family desert safari with DXB Tourisma is straightforward. Here are the steps:
- Step 1: Choose your package (morning, evening, private, or shared)
- Step 2: Select your date and number of guests (include ages of children)
- Step 3: Share any special requirements: car seats, dietary needs, medical conditions, or activity preferences
- Step 4: Confirm your hotel or residence address for pickup
- Step 5: Receive your booking confirmation via email and WhatsApp
- Step 6: Your driver contacts you before pickup with arrival time and vehicle details
You can book via our website at dxbtourisma.com, by WhatsApp, or by email. We accept payment in AED, USD, GBP, EUR, SAR, OMR, and AUD.
Book at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee your preferred date and vehicle type. During peak season (December to February) book 5 to 7 days ahead.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations made more than 48 hours before the tour date: full refund
- Cancellations made within 48 hours of the tour date: no refund
- Refunds are processed within 7 business days to the original payment method
- Rescheduling requests made more than 48 hours in advance are accommodated subject to availability
Combine Your Desert Safari with Other Dubai Family Experiences
Many families visiting Dubai combine their desert safari with other activities to make the most of their trip. DXB Tourisma offers the following combination packages:
- Desert Safari + Dubai City Tour: Explore Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Gold Souk, and Dubai Creek before or after your desert safari.
- Desert Safari + Dhow Cruise Dinner: Enjoy a traditional wooden dhow cruise on Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina on a separate evening.
- Desert Safari + Hot Air Balloon Ride Dubai: Float over the desert at sunrise. Suitable for families with children aged 5 and above. A peaceful and breathtaking experience.
- Desert Safari + Burj Khalifa At The Top: Add a visit to the world’s tallest building for stunning city views.
Combo packages offer better value than booking each activity separately. Ask about our family combo pricing when you book.
Frequently Asked Questions: Dubai Desert Safari for Family
Is desert safari in Dubai safe for families with kids?
Yes. Dubai desert safaris are safe for families when booked through a DTCM-licensed operator. All vehicles are insured, drivers are government-licensed, and dune bashing intensity can be adjusted to suit your children. For families with infants or toddlers, a private safari with eco or family dune driving mode is the safest option.
Can I bring my infant on a Dubai desert safari?
Yes, infants are welcome. However, they cannot participate in dune bashing for safety reasons. On a private safari, your driver will take a smooth desert route directly to the camp, skipping the dune bashing section entirely. Baby booster seats are available on request for private bookings.
What is the minimum age for dune bashing in Dubai?
There is no strict universal minimum age for dune bashing in Dubai, but most operators do not recommend it for children under 3 years old. For toddlers aged 2 to 3, a soft dune drive in eco mode is the safer choice. For infants under 2, dune bashing should be skipped completely.
Is dune bashing safe for a 5 year old?
Yes, dune bashing in family mode is generally safe for children aged 4 and above. The driver keeps the ride smooth and avoids steep drops. If your child is nervous or prone to motion sickness, request eco mode or skip dune bashing and go directly to the camp.
How much does a family desert safari cost in Dubai?
A shared family desert safari costs between AED 99 and AED 200 per person. A private family safari (exclusive vehicle for up to 6-7 guests) costs between AED 650 and AED 1,050. Children under 3 travel free on most packages. DXB Tourisma offers custom family pricing. Contact us for a quote.
What is included in a family desert safari package?
A standard evening family safari includes hotel pickup and drop-off, dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, henna painting, falconry demonstration, Tanoura and belly dance shows, and a BBQ dinner buffet. Arabic coffee, dates, and soft drinks are also included.
Is morning or evening desert safari better for families with young kids?
Morning safaris are better for families with toddlers and very young children because temperatures are lower and the tour ends before afternoon nap time. Evening safaris offer the full experience including dinner and cultural shows, making them better for older children aged 4 and above.
What should I wear for a desert safari in Dubai with kids?
Wear light, breathable clothing: cotton or linen trousers with t-shirts work well for both adults and children. Bring closed shoes or trainers. Avoid shorts, flip-flops, or sleeveless tops for comfort and respect of local customs. Bring a light jacket for the cool desert evening.
Can I do a desert safari in Dubai in summer with kids?
Yes, but choose a morning safari starting at 6 AM. Daytime summer temperatures in Dubai reach 45°C or higher, making an evening safari uncomfortable for young children. Morning safaris end by 11 AM before peak heat. Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen with high SPF.
Is there vegetarian food at the desert safari camp in Dubai?
Yes. Most desert camp BBQ dinner buffets include vegetarian options alongside non-vegetarian dishes. DXB Tourisma can accommodate special dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, and halal needs. Inform us at the time of booking.
Is a private desert safari worth it for families in Dubai?
Yes, especially if you have infants, toddlers, elderly guests, or anyone with medical conditions. A private safari gives your family full control over dune bashing speed, activity selection, and return time. It also allows car seats and baby boosters. For mixed-age family groups, the privacy and flexibility make a significant difference.
Is desert safari in Dubai safe for pregnant women?
Pregnant women should avoid dune bashing. On a private safari, they can skip the dune bashing section and be taken directly to the desert camp. Camel rides are also not recommended during pregnancy. Camp activities including food, entertainment, and cultural experiences are fully available and safe.
Do they offer hotel pickup from Sharjah for family desert safari?
Yes. DXB Tourisma offers pickup from Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman for family desert safari packages. Please specify your pickup location when booking. Additional charges may apply for pickups outside central Dubai.
How long does a family desert safari in Dubai last?
An evening family desert safari typically lasts 6 to 7 hours. Pickup is between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM and drop-off is between 9:00 PM and 9:30 PM. A morning safari runs from approximately 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM, lasting around 5 hours.
Which desert area is best for a family safari in Dubai?
The Lahbab Red Dunes area is the most popular for dune bashing due to the height and shape of the dunes. Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is a better option for families who prefer a quieter, nature-focused experience with possible wildlife sightings.
Why Book Your Family Desert Safari with DXB Tourisma
- DTCM-licensed tour operator based in Dubai
- All drivers are UAE government-licensed for desert safari operations
- Fully insured and regularly maintained Toyota Land Cruiser fleet
- Family-specific packages with adjustable dune bashing modes
- Car seats and baby boosters available on request for private bookings
- Vegetarian and dietary-specific meal options available
- Pickup from Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman
- Instant booking confirmation via WhatsApp and email
- Flexible cancellation with full refund up to 48 hours before the tour
- Combination packages available with city tours, dhow cruises, and hot air balloon rides
Book Your Family Desert Safari in Dubai Today
DXB Tourisma makes it simple to plan a desert safari that works for every member of your family. Whether you are travelling with a baby, a group of teenagers, elderly parents, or a mixed-age family of 7, we have a package to suit you.
Contact us via WhatsApp or visit dxbtourisma.com to check availability and get a custom family quote.
Dubai’s Arabian Desert is waiting for your family. Book now and create memories that last a lifetime.