Taking your family into the golden sands of the UAE is a dream adventure. But as a parent, you have important questions: Is it safe for my toddler? What is the age limit? How do we handle the heat?
At Xtreme Sightseeing Tourism, we don’t just provide tours; we pioneered them. As the first desert safari portal in Abu Dhabi, we have guided over 1 million guests since 2010. We have helped thousands of families navigate the dunes safely.
This guide is built from 15 years of hands-on experience to help you plan the perfect family day.
Is a Desert Safari Safe for Kids?
The short answer: Yes! But with a few “ifs.”
Desert safaris are highly regulated in the UAE. However, the experience depends entirely on the age of your children and the type of package you book. Most companies offer “Family-Friendly” options that swap heart-pounding stunts for gentle drives.
The Golden Rule: Know the Age Limits
While there is no official law banning children of a certain age, most reputable tour operators follow these safety guidelines:
- Infants (0–2 years): Not recommended for “dune bashing.” Their neck muscles aren’t strong enough for the jolts.
- Toddlers (3–5 years): Can join, but usually require a private vehicle so the driver can go slow.
- Kids (6+ years): Generally ready for the full experience, though always check with your child’s comfort level.
3 Safety Tips Every Parent Needs
To rank as a “pro-traveler” parent, keep these three things in mind before you strap into the 4×4:
Car Seats are Mandatory: Just because you’re in the sand doesn’t mean safety goes out the window. Ensure your tour provider offers child car seats or bring your own.
Book a Private Vehicle: If you have small children, don’t share a car with strangers. A private booking allows you to tell the driver to skip the “rollercoaster” dunes and take the flat paths instead.
Timing is Everything: Choose an Evening Safari. The desert gets incredibly hot midday. Evening tours start around 4:00 PM when the sun is lower, making it much safer and more comfortable for kids.
Age-Appropriate Activities
The desert is more than just a bumpy ride. Here is how to keep the kids entertained based on their age:
| Activity | Age Group | Fun Factor |
| Sandboarding | 6+ Years | High (It’s like sledding on sand!) |
| Camel Riding | All Ages | Medium (Hold on tight during the “pop up”) |
| Henna Painting | 4+ Years | High (A beautiful, temporary souvenir) |
| Falconry Shows | All Ages | High (Watching majestic birds fly) |
| Quad Biking | 12+ Years | Extreme (Requires adult supervision) |
The Ultimate “Desert Survival” Packing List
Don’t leave your hotel without these essentials:
- Light Layers: It’s hot during the day but can get chilly once the sun sets.
- Closed-Toe Shoes: The sand can get scorching hot, and it’s easier to walk in sneakers than flip-flops.
- Sunscreen & Hats: Even in the evening, the Arabian sun is strong.
- Wet Wipes: Between the sand, the BBQ dinner, and the camels, things will get messy!
Related Blog: Essential Things to Carry for a Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi
Final Verdict: Should You Go?
If your kids are over age 3 and you choose a reputable company that prioritizes safety over speed, a desert safari is the highlight of a UAE trip. It’s a chance for your kids to see a world beyond the skyscrapers and mall play-zones.
Parent Pro-Tip: Feed the kids a light snack before the safari, but avoid a heavy meal right before the dune drive to prevent any “tummy troubles” in the backseat!
