If you’re planning a desert safari in Abu Dhabi, one question always comes first: what exactly is included in the experience? Different operators advertise similar activities, but the real value lies in the details — timings, comfort, safety, food quality, and cultural depth.
This guide gives you a clear, honest, and complete breakdown of what is included in an Abu Dhabi desert safari, covering standard packages, premium upgrades, safari variants, exclusions, safety, and local insights. The goal is simple: help you choose the right safari, not just any safari.
Quick answer — what you’ll get
Most Abu Dhabi desert safaris include:
- Hotel pickup & drop-off in a 4×4 vehicle
- Dune bashing in the desert
- Camel ride and sandboarding
- Sunset photo stop
- Traditional desert camp experience
- BBQ buffet dinner with soft drinks
- Live cultural entertainment
Premium and VIP safaris add falconry, gourmet dining, private transfers, and deeper desert exploration.
Standard inclusions explained
Standard desert safari packages are designed to give first-time visitors a complete Arabian desert experience without extra add-ons.
Dune bashing — what to expect
Dune bashing is the highlight of most safaris. You’ll ride in a 4×4 Land Cruiser or similar SUV, driven by a trained desert driver.
Typical duration: 10–20 minutes
What it feels like: Controlled off-road driving over high sand dunes, similar to a roller-coaster but guided and safe.
Safety: Seat belts are mandatory, vehicles are inspected regularly, and drivers are licensed.
This activity usually takes place before sunset to allow for scenic photo stops.
Camel rides, sandboarding & short activities
After dune bashing, safaris usually stop at a desert camp or activity point.
Included activities:
- Camel ride: Short ride (5–10 minutes) for photos and experience
- Sandboarding: Sliding down dunes using a board (beginner-friendly)
- Sunset photography: One of the best photo moments of the tour
These activities are included in almost all standard packages and are suitable for beginners.
Camp entertainment, dinner & drinks
At the desert camp, the experience becomes cultural.
What’s included:
- Arabic welcome with dates & tea
- BBQ buffet dinner (veg & non-veg options)
- Unlimited soft drinks, water, tea & coffee
- Live shows such as belly dance, Tanoura dance, and fire show
- Henna painting (basic design)
- Traditional seating and décor
Dinner and shows typically last 60–90 minutes, giving enough time to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Premium upgrades and VIP safaris (falconry, gourmet dining)
Premium desert safaris focus on comfort, exclusivity, and authenticity rather than crowds.
Premium inclusions may include:
- Private hotel pickup & drop-off
- Smaller group or fully private experience
- Nature drive instead of intense dune bashing
- Live falconry demonstration
- Luxury desert camp or heritage-style camp
- Gourmet multi-course dinner served at the table
- Premium seating and quieter environment
Safari variants — evening vs morning vs overnight (Liwa)
Not all desert safaris follow the same format. Here’s how they differ:
Morning desert safari
A morning desert safari in Abu Dhabi is ideal if you’re short on time but still want a taste of desert adventure. Lasting around 3–4 hours.
- Short duration (3–4 hours)
- Includes dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding
- No dinner or camp entertainment
- Best for tight schedules or adventure-focused travelers
Evening desert safari (most popular)
The evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi is the most popular choice because it offers a complete desert experience in one trip.
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Includes all standard activities + dinner & shows
- Best for first-time visitors
Overnight desert safari
An overnight desert safari lets you enjoy the desert for more than just a few hours. It includes an evening safari followed by a night stay at the desert camp.
- Includes evening safari + overnight stay in desert camp
- Stargazing, campfire, sunrise views
- Breakfast included next morning
Liwa desert safari
A Liwa desert safari takes you to the Liwa Desert, famous for its huge sand dunes and untouched landscapes.
- Takes place in the Liwa Desert, known for massive dunes
- Longer drive, more scenic and remote
- Often includes overnight or premium experiences
- Ideal for photography and deep desert exploration
Typical extras and what’s NOT included (ATV, alcohol)
Some activities are optional and paid separately.
Usually not included:
- Quad biking / ATV rides
- Dune buggy driving
- Professional photography packages
- Extended camel trekking
Typical costs (approximate):
- Quad bike: extra charge per session
- Private vehicle upgrade: additional fee
Always check inclusions before booking to avoid surprises.
Practical tips — what to bring and photo tips
- Light, breathable clothes
- Closed shoes or sandals with straps
- Light jacket in winter evenings
- Sunglasses & sunscreen
- Phone/camera with full battery
- Power bank (limited charging points)
Photo tips:
- Best light: 30 minutes before sunset
- Capture silhouettes on dune crests
- Avoid harsh midday light in summer
Always book with free cancellation if possible, especially during peak seasons.
Local insight — Bedouin culture & falconry explained
Desert safaris are inspired by Bedouin traditions, the nomadic lifestyle of the Arabian desert. Camps reflect this heritage through carpets, low seating, Arabic coffee, and storytelling.
Falconry is one of the UAE’s oldest traditions, once essential for hunting. Today, it represents heritage, skill, and respect for nature. Premium safaris that include falconry offer a deeper cultural connection beyond entertainment.
Liwa Oasis, in particular, played a vital role in Bedouin history and remains one of the most culturally rich desert regions in Abu Dhabi.
Ready to book your Abu Dhabi desert safari?
Now that you know exactly what is included in an Abu Dhabi desert safari, you can confidently choose the package that fits your travel style — adventure, luxury, family-friendly, or cultural.
Explore our desert safari in abu dhabi, or contact us on WhatsApp for a custom itinerary with transparent inclusions and pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What is a typical Abu Dhabi desert safari itinerary?
Hotel pickup → dune bashing → sunset stop → camel ride & sandboarding → desert camp → dinner & live shows → drop-off.
How long does an evening desert safari last?
Most evening safaris last 5–6 hours, including transfers.
Are drinks and dinner included?
Yes, BBQ dinner and unlimited soft drinks are included in standard packages. Alcohol is usually extra.
Is dune bashing safe? Who should avoid it?
It’s safe for most people but not recommended for pregnant women or those with serious medical conditions.
Can I book quad biking or camel trekking separately?
Yes. Quad biking and extended camel treks are optional add-ons at extra cost.
What should I wear to a desert safari?
Light clothing, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a light jacket for evenings.
