For a family vacation, nothing beats the fun of a Dubai or Abu Dhabi tour. These tours are famous worldwide due to the beautiful combination of the Arabian sand dunes, nature, entertainment and culture. Desert safaris are fun for families with children, teenagers, and even elderly parents as guests.
In this post, we’ll show you how to make the most out of your family trip to a
Dubai desert safari, from package selection to safety guidelines and recommended items to bring.
Why a Family Should Choose Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi or Dubai
A desert safari in the UAE is packed with culture, excitement, and relaxation. Here’s why it’s perfect for family get-togethers:
Dune bashingdrives for adrenaline junkies.
Riding camelsand sandboarding suitable for teens and children.
Live belly danceand Tanoura shows.
BBQ dinnerserved along with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
Cultural experiences likehenna painting, traditional dress photography, and falconry.
Safely experience the majesty of the Arabian desert on a morning, evening, or overnight safari. All options promise to be unforgettable.
When Is It Best to Visit the Desert with Family
The mildly cool weather between October and April makes it the best time for desert safaris in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Those months are especially ideal for younger and elderly family members because temperatures soar above 45°C from May to September.
Pro tip: Reserve a tour well in advance during the holiday season if traveling with larger families.
Family Types Safari in the Desert
While you are booking a
Desert Safari Dubai or Abu Dhabi, you can select from the following:
Morning Dune Bashing
Session starts at 7:00 AM
Activities include camel rides, dune bashing, and sandboarding
Great for children who cannot stay out late
Evening Desert Safari (Most Popular)
Starts at 3 PM – Ending at 9 PM
Includes all activities, dinner, and live entertainment
Best for families wanting a complete desert experience
Overnight Desert Safari
Camping under the stars with sleeping bags and tents
Breakfast afterwards
Best for families looking for a unique experience together
Family-Friendly Activities in the Desert
All age groups have specific activities planned for them. However, the desert safari is more than just dune bashing.
Camel Riding
Youngsters and older folks alike get an amazing view of the desert while riding these gentle creatures.
Sandboarding
Targeted towards young adults and teenagers. This activity is snowboarding on the sails of sand.
Henna Painting
Which child or woman does not enjoy looking beautiful? Getting a henna tattoo, an Arabic beauty obsession, serves this purpose perfectly.
Falcon Photography
Capture stunning photos with a trained falcon. A one-of-a-kind activity enjoyed by children and adults. Read More: SEO Services in Canada
Traditional Costumes
Dress up as Emirates and have family portraits taken against the desert landscape.
Entertainment Shows
Enjoy Tanoura dancers, belly dancing, and fire shows while on an evening safari.
BBQ Buffet Dinner
A selection of many other dishes, including vegetarian and children-friendly options, is served.
How to Choose the Right Safari Operator
With a reliable tour operator, a desert safari becomes both fun and safe. Here’s what to consider:
Operators must be licensed and insured
Private family tourson request
Equipped with child safety seatsand air-conditioned 4x4 vehicles
Constructive feedback on TripAdvisor, Google, or GetYourGuide
Clear cancellation and refund policies
Families will enjoy the services of top-rated companies like Platinum Heritage, Arabian Adventures, and OceanAir Travels. Read More: Abu Dhabi Tour
What to Pack on a Family Trip to the Desert
Planning ahead can make the tour easier:
Hats and sunscreenfor sun protection
Light scarves or sunglassesto manage wind and sand
Comfortable clothing(avoid tight or heavy fabrics)
Closed-toe shoesor sandals for easy walking
Water bottles(most tours provide refreshments)
Cameras or smartphonesfor photos
Jackets or shawlsfor cooler evenings
For overnight trips, don’t forget to pack necessary medications, toothbrushes, and a small blanket for children.
Tips on How to Safely Go on a Desert Trip with Kids
Even though desert safaris are relatively safe, smaller steps can guarantee added protection:
Avoid dune bashing if pregnant or with infants
Choose a private safarifor more control over timing and activities
Check if car seatsare available for toddlers
Keep children hydrated and in shaded areas
Always follow guide instructionsduring activities
Inform the operator in advance if there are any medical conditions or dietary restrictions.
Easy on the Pocket Family Safari Tips
Desert safaris can be exciting and budget-friendly:
Book directlyfrom tour operators to avoid third-party charges
Avoid private group toursif you’re on a budget
Look for combo dealssuch as desert safari plus city tours
Watch out for kids go freepromotions
Choose weekdays over weekendsfor lower prices
Between Dubai & Abu Dhabi: Which Desert Safari is Better for Families?
While both cities offer fantastic desert experiences, there are slight differences:
Feature Dubai Desert Safari Abu Dhabi Desert Safari
Accessibility More tour shuttles, quicker start times Less crowded, more private experiences
Focus Entertainment-heavy Strong emphasis on cultural authenticity
Cost More budget options Pricier for luxury experiences
If your family is already in either city, it’s wise to choose the safari that’s nearest to your location to reduce travel fatigue.
Summary
A
desert safari in Dubai or Abu Dhabi is not just a tour—it’s a bonding and cultural experience for the entire family. From the thrill of dune bashing to the laughter on a camel ride, and even the enchantment of a desert sunset, your family will create memories to treasure.
Just make sure to plan ahead, choose the right package, and get ready for an unforgettable Arabian adventure.
