Why is the Desert Safari in Dubai So Popular?

Premium desert safari is one of the best ways to discover Dubai. The city is popoular by its iconic buildings, luxury hotels and shopping malls. But when you go further, you come to a completely different world waiting for you – the Arabian Desert. It is a great contrast with the downtown and great way how to escape from busy city to more calm but adventurous part of United Arab Emirates.

One of the most common safaris travelers go for are the standard ones because its affordable and exciting. But sometimes you come across a word Premium Desert Safari Dubai or packages which include the same activitites and you wonder why are they much more expensive. This Desert Safari experience is designed for travelers who want something more exclusive, private, and luxurious.

What is a Premium Desert Safari in Dubai?

A standard desert safari usually includes hotel pick-up, dune bashing, camel rides, dinner, and traditional entertainment. Although this safari can be fun, it’s often crowded, with long queues and shared spaces.

A premium or luxury desert safari Dubai, however, includes the same activitites but upgrades them. Instead of sharing a bus, you travel in a private 4×4 vehicle. Instead of a crowded camp, you enjoy a reserved VIP lounge with personalized service. Instead of a basic buffet, you get all inclusive buffet with variery of foods.

In short, it’s the same desert, but a completely different experience.

What’s Included in a Premium Desert Safari?

Here are the main points which make the VIP desert safari Dubai different:

1. Private Hotel Pick-Up

Your evening begins with a private pick-up in a luxury 4×4, often a Toyota Land Cruiser or Hummer H2, depends on your choice. The desert drive is direct, without any stops or collection of other guests. The vehicle offers leather seating and full air-condition.

2. Dune Bashing Adventure

One of the most famous activities of Dubai desert is dune bashing. Dune bashing in red sand dunes, is a thrilling drive through the sand dunes. It is important to know that in order for our drivers to balance the dunes and bring you a safe experience, they went through a special training with a licence so there is nothing to be worried about. The main difference is that the premium desert safari tour consists of longer desert drive than in the standard package which allows you more time for sunset photography…

3. Optional Adventures

Want more activities? You can often add on activities like:

• Quad biking – race through the dunes on a four-wheeled bike.

• Sandboarding – slide down the dunes on a board, just like snowboarding.

• Dune buggy rides – another way how to drive yourself in buggy.

4. Camel Rides & Falcon Shows

A short camel ride is usually included, giving you the experience of the traditional Bedouin mode of transport. Some premium packages also include falconry demonstrations, where trained falcons fly through the sky, bringing you cultural highlight and great opportunity for photography.

5. Desert Sunset Viewing

Sunset is very beautiful part of the evening desert safari tour. The mix of colors – shades of orange, yellow and gold are bringing mesmerazing view with amazing spot for photoshoot. Premium safaris often prepare a great view on high dunes without any crowds.

6. Exclusive VIP Desert Camp

VIP Desert camp is the main difference between standard and premium desert safari tour. Unlike busy, standard tours, premium safari includes private sofa seating areas with beautiful arabic decoration in order to bring you a bit more of arabic culture in your holiday. Arabic coffee, dates and shisha are often served to have your entertainment a bit more enjoyable.

7. Fine Dining Experience

Dinner at a premium safari offers more fine dining than a camp buffet. Expect:

• Grilled meats from live BBQ stations

• International dishes alongside Arabic specialties

• Fresh salads and mezze platters

• Traditional desserts like baklava and Umm Ali

• Vegetarian and sometimes vegan options

In some camps, waiter serve meals at your table instead of buffet style, adding to the feeling of exclusivity.

8. Live Entertainment Shows

While having dinner, you can enjoy a mix of cultural and artistic performances such as:

• Tanoura dance – a traditional spinning dance

• Belly dancing – performances to Arabic music

• Fire shows – dramatic and exciting moves with fire skills

• Live oud or Arabic music – adding to the magical desert atmosphere

Is a Premium Desert Safari Worth It?

The short answer: yes, if you prefer comfort and exclusivity. Here’s why many visitors choose premium over standard:

• Privacy – No crowded buses or busy camps.

• Quality – Better vehicles, food, and service.

• Flexibility – More time for activities and customization.

• Special Occasions – Perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or corporate hosting.

The premium safari is worth it because it gives you an opportunity to see the desert in a way that feels personal and luxurious.

How Long Does a Premium Desert Safari Last?

Most premium safaris last 6–7 hours. Pick-up is usually in the afternoon around 3:00 PM, and return to your hotel by 9:30 or 10:00 PM. The time includes travel, dune bashing, activities, dinner, and entertainment. Click Dubai desert safari timings for more information.

Some companies also offer overnight desert safari, where you can stay in luxury tents under the stars. This option is ideal if you want to really experience the desert atmosphere. If you would like to know more about the overnight safari – read here.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Go in the evening – Cooler weather and beautiful sunsets make evening tours the most popular.

• Best season – November to March, when the desert weather is the best.

• What to wear – Comfortable, breathable clothing. A jacket in winter evenings.

• Shoes – Sneakers or sandals are fine. Sneakers are best for quad biking.

• Photography – Don’t forget your camera as the desert offers many photograpic spots.

• Hydration – Drink water often, even if it’s not too hot.

How Much Does a Premium Desert Safari Cost?

Prices depends on inclusions, but generally range between AED 300–700 per person (USD 80–190). In this price is included private transport, luxury camps, gourmet meals, and VIP service.

While it’s more expensive than standard safaris, most travelers agree to pay extra considering the exclusivity and quality.

How to Book a Premium Desert Safari in Dubai

Booking is easy. Our company allows you to reserve through WhatsApp, phone, or website forms.

When you book with us, you’ll enjoy:

• Private, luxury vehicles

• Professional, friendly guides

• Exclusive desert camps with fine dining

• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

• Easy booking in just a few clicks

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between a premium and standard desert safari?
A standard safari includes shared transport, crowded camps, and buffet meals. A premium safari offers private transfers, VIP seating, gourmet food, and a more exclusive atmosphere.

2. Can children join a premium desert safari?
Yes, children are welcome. Premium safaris are family-friendly, with smoother dune bashing and safe activities for younger guests.

3. Is dune bashing safe?
Yes. Professional drivers use well-maintained 4×4 vehicles. If you prefer a gentler ride, you can request it in advance.

4. What should I wear?
Light clothing during the day, with a jacket for cooler evenings. Comfortable shoes are recommended if you plan to try sandboarding or quad biking.

5. Do premium safaris include alcohol?
Some camps offer alcoholic beverages at an extra cost, while others remain alcohol-free. Always check before booking.

6. How far is the desert from Dubai city?
The main desert safari areas are around 45 minutes from Downtown Dubai, depending on traffic and location.

7. Can I book a private desert safari just for two people?
Yes. Many providers offer private premium safaris, which are ideal for couples or small groups looking for a more romantic or personalized experience.

8. Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, premium desert camps usually offer vegetarian options, and some can accommodate vegan or gluten-free requests if informed in advance.

Conclusion

Dubai desert safari tour offers you a great way how to experience traditional arabic style. Even though standard safari includes affordable camps and options, the premium desert safari Dubai shows in a luxurious way. As it starts from the private pick up at the hotel, continues to thrilling dune bashing and mesmerazing susnets and then brings you to the private premium camps to enjoy gourmet dining.

If you are visitng Dubai and you are willing to pay for more comfortable, luxurious, and private way, this is the choice you should book. Whether it is a regular holiday with your family or honeymoon this is a once in a life time experience which will make you rememer our tours forever.