Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi

Desert safaris in Abu Dhabi offer the perfect blend of adventure and culture. Golden dunes, traditional camps and thrilling rides make them a highlight of any visit. MakeMyTrip brings you 986 desert safari options in Abu Dhabi for 2025, including morning drives, evening shows and overnight stays. Travellers can enjoy dune bashing in 4x4 vehicles, try sandboarding or watch a desert sunset. Evening tours often include barbecue dinners, music and cultural performances under the stars. Each trip combines excitement with an authentic local experience. With Abu Dhabi desert safari prices starting from INR 397, you can enjoy an unforgettable desert escape. This December, let MakeMyTrip take you on a journey across the sands.

Everything You Need to Know About Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi

Few experiences capture the soul of the Middle East quite like a desert safari in Abu Dhabi. Just a short drive from the city’s polished skyline, the vast dunes open up to a completely different world. Here, the golden sand stretches endlessly, and the desert takes on its own rhythm.

A safari is not only about thrill rides across dunes, though that is part of the fun. It is also about camel treks, sandboarding, evenings in Bedouin-style camps, and plates of grilled food under clear skies. Some visitors keep it simple with a quick morning desert safari in Abu Dhabi, while others linger through dinner shows or even spend the night in luxury tents.

With packages ranging from budget-friendly ATV adventures to high-end private camps, there is something for every traveller. MakeMyTrip makes it easy to browse options like Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner and Live Shows or an exclusive Luxury Private Desert Safari Camp, all priced clearly in INR. This guide walks you through safari types, prices, top activities, and trusted operators, so you know exactly what to expect.

Types of Safaris

Every desert safari in Abu Dhabi has its own feel. Some are quick and energetic; others stretch into long evenings with music and food. Here are the main choices travellers usually consider.

Morning Safari

A morning desert safari in Abu Dhabi is great if you want the adventure but not the late-night finish. It usually starts around 08:00 AM, lasting 3–4 hours. Dune bashing is the highlight, along with sandboarding and camel rides. Many operators also let you add ATV or buggy rides. Because it ends before noon, it is easy to fit into a busy day.

Evening Safari

The most popular choice, an evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi mixes thrill with relaxed downtime. Expect dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and then time at a desert camp. Dinner is usually a BBQ buffet, paired with live cultural shows. Extras like henna art or shisha are common. It usually runs from mid-afternoon until 09:00 or 10:00 PM.

Overnight Safari

If you want to stretch the desert mood, choose an overnight. It combines the evening programme with a night under the stars. Camps provide sleeping setups with blankets and basic facilities. You wake to quiet dunes and simple breakfast. For many, it feels like the most immersive desert experience.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

A hot air balloon safari offers views rather than adrenaline. You set off early, often before sunrise, and drift over the dunes as light spreads across the desert. Wildlife like gazelles or camels can sometimes be spotted. The ride is calm and scenic, with most trips lasting about an hour, followed by light refreshments.

Private or Luxury Safari

A private or luxury safari adds comfort and exclusivity. You get a dedicated vehicle, a guide focused only on your group, and premium camp facilities. Many luxury desert safari camps feature fine dining, upgraded seating, and activities tailored to your preferences. Prices are higher but the privacy and extras make it special.

Key Activities and Features

A desert safari in Abu Dhabi is not only about dune drives. Camps and operators pack in a range of fun and cultural experiences.

• Dune Bashing: Ride across shifting dunes in a 4x4. It is fast, bumpy, and the most talked-about part of every safari.
• Camel Riding: Sit atop a camel for a short ride. It gives you a glimpse of how desert travel was done traditionally.
• Sandboarding: Slide down tall dunes on a board. It is simple, safe, and a fun way to enjoy the desert slopes.
• ATV and Buggy Rides: Hop onto quad bikes or dune buggies for extra thrill. Most operators offer these as optional paid add-ons.
• Desert Camp Experience: Relax in a Bedouin-style camp. Expect carpets, cushions, and shaded seating areas that let you soak in the atmosphere.
• Cultural Performances: Watch belly dancing, Tanoura shows, or fire displays. These live acts usually follow dinner at evening and overnight safaris.
• Food and Drinks: Evening and overnight safaris include buffet BBQs with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, plus soft drinks and water.
• Optional Extras: Henna art, falcon photography, or shisha sessions are often available, giving you more ways to personalise your trip.

Ticket and Pricing

MakeMyTrip is a reliable way to check and compare what each safari includes. Packages show clear INR pricing, so you know what to expect before booking.

• Morning Safari: Adult: INR 3,200 – 4,500, Child: INR 2,500 – 3,800
• Evening Safari: Adult: INR 3,800 – 5,500, Child: INR 3,000 – 4,200
• Overnight Safari: Adult: INR 7,500 – 12,000, Child: INR 5,800 – 8,500
• Hot Air Balloon Safari: Adult: INR 18,000 – 25,000, Child: INR 15,000 – 20,000
• Private or Luxury Safari: Adult: INR 15,000 – 35,000+, Child: INR 12,000 – 25,000+

Booking & Logistics

Sorting the basics makes your desert safari in Abu Dhabi smoother and more enjoyable. Most details are easy once you know what to expect.

• Hotel Pickup: Most operators offer direct pickup from your hotel. It saves time and avoids confusion about where to start the safari.
• Transportation: Shared 4x4s are common, but you can also book private transfers. Some premium packages include luxury SUVs.
• Cost: Prices vary by timing, inclusions, and level of comfort. Expect to pay more for private or luxury camps with upgraded services.
• Best Time to Visit: Cooler months from October to March are the most comfortable. Summer safaris still run but can feel hot during the day.

Tips for Your Safari

A few simple steps can make your desert safari in Abu Dhabi more comfortable and stress-free. Keep these in mind before you go.

• Dress Code: Light, breathable clothes work best. Carry a jacket in cooler months and wear shoes that can handle sand.
• What to Bring: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a small water bottle are handy. Keep your phone or camera charged for photos.
• Reserve in Advance: Popular operators and evening slots sell out quickly. Booking early ensures you get your preferred timing and inclusions.
• Set Your Budget: Decide between standard, premium, or private camps. Knowing your budget helps narrow choices without missing out on must-do activities.