The Desert Safari Dubai experience is one of the most iconic and exciting attractions in the UAE. While many associate it with thrill-seeking adults and high-octane dune bashing, a desert safari can also be an unforgettable family adventure—if planned thoughtfully. Traveling with children means adjusting the pace, ensuring safety, and making sure the experience is both enjoyable and appropriate for young travelers.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about planning a Desert Safari Dubai with kids, including what to expect, how to prepare, and tips for making it a fun, safe, and memorable outing for the whole family.
Why Choose a Desert Safari Dubai for a Family Trip?
A Desert Safari Dubai offers more than just action-packed rides. It also features cultural activities, nature encounters, and immersive entertainment that children and adults alike can enjoy. With options like camel rides, falcon displays, henna painting, and traditional Bedouin camps, this experience introduces kids to the region’s history and landscape in a way that’s interactive and exciting.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or cultural enrichment, a well-planned desert safari can be the perfect family outing.
Choosing the Right Desert Safari Dubai Package
Not all desert safaris are created equal, especially when traveling with kids. It’s important to select a package designed with families in mind. Here’s what to look for:
1. Family-Friendly Operators
Choose a reputable company with experience catering to families. Read online reviews to ensure they offer safety, comfort, and appropriate entertainment for children.
2. Private vs Group Safari
A private Desert Safari Dubai allows you to tailor the experience to your family’s needs, such as taking breaks, adjusting activity intensity, or skipping certain parts. Shared safaris are more affordable but less flexible.
3. Morning or Evening Tour?
Morning safaris are usually shorter (3–4 hours), making them ideal for younger children with early bedtimes. Evening safaris are longer (6–7 hours) but include dinner and live shows, which older children may enjoy.
What to Pack for a Kid-Friendly Desert Safari Dubai
Preparation is key for ensuring your children are comfortable during the trip. Here are some essential items to bring:
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Sun protection: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves for the desert sun.
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Comfortable clothing: Light, breathable fabrics are ideal. Bring a jacket for cooler evenings.
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Snacks and water: While most safaris provide refreshments, having familiar snacks on hand can help keep kids content.
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Baby essentials: If traveling with infants or toddlers, bring diapers, wipes, and any necessary baby food.
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Camera: You’ll want to capture those precious family moments in the dunes.
Activities That Kids Will Love on a Desert Safari Dubai
While some parts of the Desert Safari Dubai are adrenaline-focused, many elements are especially appealing to children. These include:
1. Camel Rides
Most kids love the novelty of riding a camel. It’s a gentle, slow-paced ride that offers a glimpse into how ancient travelers navigated the desert.
2. Sandboarding
Gliding down the dunes on a sandboard can be a big hit with older kids. It’s safe, easy to learn, and adds an extra element of fun.
3. Henna Painting
In the desert camp, girls in particular may enjoy getting small, temporary henna tattoos—usually applied by skilled artists in just minutes.
4. Falcon Shows
Children are often fascinated by falcons. Many desert camps offer a falconry demonstration where kids can see the birds up close and even take photos.
5. Cultural Dress-Up
Many safari camps provide traditional Emirati clothing for photo opportunities. Kids can dress up like locals and snap photos for a fun keepsake.
Safety Tips for Parents
When it comes to a Desert Safari Dubai, safety should always come first, especially with young children. Follow these precautions for a worry-free trip:
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Skip Dune Bashing with Very Young Kids: Children under 4 are generally not recommended to participate in dune bashing due to the bumpy ride. Ask the operator if alternative routes or milder drives are available.
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Use Car Seats When Possible: Request a car seat in advance or bring your own. Not all safari vehicles come equipped with them.
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Hydrate Frequently: The desert air is dry and can lead to dehydration. Encourage your kids to drink water regularly.
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Monitor Weather Conditions: Avoid booking during extreme summer heat. Winter months (November to March) offer more pleasant temperatures for kids.
Food Options for Children
Evening Desert Safari Dubai tours typically include a buffet dinner at the desert camp. The food usually consists of a variety of options like grilled meats, rice, flatbreads, and salads, which are often child-friendly. However, if your child is a picky eater or has dietary restrictions, it’s wise to bring snacks or check with the operator about food options in advance.
Entertainment and Relaxation
While adults enjoy cultural performances like belly dancing and Tanoura shows, these entertainments can also be captivating for kids. Most camps are spacious and allow kids to roam safely while enjoying the ambiance. There are usually areas with cushions and carpets where families can relax comfortably together.
Final Thoughts
A Desert Safari Dubai is not just an adult adventure; it’s a full-sensory experience that can be tailored to suit families with kids of all ages. With the right planning and a thoughtful choice of operator, your desert safari can become one of the most memorable highlights of your family trip to Dubai.
