Dubai’s vast golden desert is a magical playground for families looking for adventure, cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments. A best desert safari dubai for family​ offers a mix of thrilling activities like dune bashing and sandboarding, along with relaxing camel rides, traditional entertainment, and delicious Arabian cuisine. Whether you're traveling with young children, teenagers, or elderly family members, there are plenty of family-friendly options to ensure a safe, fun, and memorable experience.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the best desert safari in Dubai for families, including the different types of safaris, the best family-friendly packages, top activities, and tips for an enjoyable experience.

Why Choose a Family Desert Safari in Dubai?

A desert safari is one of the must-do activities in Dubai, offering a perfect blend of adventure and cultural exploration. Here’s why families love this experience:

✅ Safe and Kid-Friendly – Many tour operators offer family-friendly safaris with gentle dune bashing and activities suitable for all ages.
✅ Fun for Everyone – Kids, parents, and grandparents can enjoy a mix of thrill and relaxation.
✅ Cultural Experience – Families can learn about Bedouin traditions, try local cuisine, and watch traditional performances.
✅ Scenic Beauty – The desert’s stunning landscapes, golden dunes, and breathtaking sunsets make for beautiful family photos.
✅ Memorable Bonding Time – A desert safari allows families to disconnect from screens and enjoy quality time together.

Types of Family Desert Safaris in Dubai

There are different types of desert safari experiences, depending on your family’s preferences and schedule. Here’s a breakdown of the best options:

1. Morning Desert Safari – Ideal for Young Kids & Short Trips

If you have young children or prefer a shorter excursion, a morning desert safari is perfect. It typically lasts 3-4 hours and includes:

• Gentle dune bashing – A fun but controlled 4x4 ride over the sand dunes.
• Camel rides – A peaceful way to explore the desert.
• Sandboarding – Glide down the dunes like snowboarding!
• Quad biking (optional) – Some operators offer small quad bikes for kids.
• Falcon photography – Kids can interact with majestic falcons.

✅ Best for: Families with young children, early risers, and those short on time.

2. Evening Desert Safari – The Most Popular Family Experience

An evening desert safari starts in the afternoon and lasts until late evening, making it the most comprehensive option. It includes:

• Exciting dune bashing – A thrilling but safe ride across the dunes in a 4x4.
• Sunset photography – Capture stunning desert views.
• Camel rides & falconry – A traditional desert experience.
• BBQ dinner & cultural performances – Enjoy an Arabian-style buffet with entertainment like:
  • Belly dancing
  • Tanoura dance (whirling dervish performance)
  • Fire shows
• Henna painting & Arabic dress photography – Fun activities for kids and adults.

✅ Best for: Families who want a mix of adventure and cultural experiences.

3. Overnight Desert Safari – Ultimate Family Adventure

For families who love the outdoors and stargazing, an overnight desert safari is an unforgettable experience. It includes all the activities of an evening safari, plus:

• Traditional Bedouin-style camping – Sleep in comfortable desert tents.
• Campfire storytelling & stargazing – Enjoy the quiet beauty of the desert night.
• Morning sunrise view – Wake up to a breathtaking sunrise over the dunes.
• Light breakfast before returning to the city.

✅ Best for: Families with older kids or teens who enjoy adventure and nature.

Top Family-Friendly Desert Safari Packages in Dubai

To help you choose the best desert safari in Dubai for families, here are some of the top-rated packages:

1. Arabian Adventures – Family Desert Safari

A trusted name in Dubai tourism, Arabian Adventures offers:
✔️ Mild dune bashing for young kids.
✔️ Camel rides, sandboarding, and henna painting.
✔️ Buffet dinner with vegetarian options.
✔️ Live entertainment including fire shows.

2. Platinum Heritage – Luxury Family Safari

For families who prefer a luxury experience, Platinum Heritage offers:
✔️ Vintage Land Rover rides instead of dune bashing – Great for young kids.
✔️ Wildlife spotting at a desert conservation reserve.
✔️ Gourmet dinner & cultural performances in an eco-friendly setting.
✔️ Star-gazing experience with an astronomer.

3. Desert Safari Dubai Co – Budget-Friendly Package

For families looking for an affordable yet exciting desert experience:
✔️ Dune bashing, sandboarding, and quad biking (optional).
✔️ Camel ride and falcon photography.
✔️ BBQ dinner with live music and performances.
✔️ Children-friendly henna painting and dress-up activities.

4. Golden Sand Adventures – Private Family Safari

Perfect for families who want a private and customizable experience:
✔️ A private 4x4 vehicle for a comfortable ride.
✔️ Flexible itinerary – control the pace of dune bashing.
✔️ Kids-friendly entertainment & campfire experience.

Best Time to Go on a Family Desert Safari

The best time for a desert safari in Dubai is between October and April, when the weather is cooler. Summers (May–September) can be extremely hot, making outdoor activities less comfortable, especially for children.

Essential Tips for a Family Desert Safari in Dubai

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, keep these family-friendly tips in mind:

✔️ Choose a reputable tour operator – Check reviews and ensure the safari is child-friendly.
✔️ Dress comfortably – Light, breathable clothes for the day and a jacket for the evening.
✔️ Stay hydrated – Carry plenty of water, especially for kids.
✔️ Eat light before dune bashing – Helps prevent motion sickness.
✔️ Check age restrictions – Some activities like quad biking may have age limits.
✔️ Inform about dietary needs – Most tour operators offer vegetarian and kid-friendly meal options.

Conclusion: Why a Family Desert Safari in Dubai is Worth It

A desert safari in Dubai is one of the best ways to explore the UAE’s rich culture while having fun as a family. Whether you opt for a morning adventure, an evening extravaganza, or an overnight camping experience, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From the thrill of dune bashing to the peaceful beauty of a camel ride and the excitement of traditional performances, a desert safari creates lasting memories for families.