A desert safari in Dubai with kids can be a highlight of a family holiday. Camels, sandboarding, fire shows and a big open desert give children plenty to talk about. A little planning goes a long way, though, especially when choosing a tour and deciding how the dune bashing will work for your family.
What children enjoy most
- Camel ride: a gentle way to meet the desert animals, and it can be repeated
- Sandboarding: sliding down the soft red sand
- Kids play area: space to run around at the camp
- Traditional costumes: great for family photos
- Live shows: fire shows, belly dance and the spinning Tanoura performance
- Dinner: a BBQ buffet with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, plus unlimited soft drinks and water
Which safari is best for families?
| Tour | Price | Why families like it |
|---|---|---|
| Evening Desert Safari | AED 89 per person | The full experience, including sunset, camp, shows and dinner |
| Private Desert Safari | AED 650 per car, up to 6 guests | Your own Land Cruiser, so the family travels together |
| Private Morning Desert Safari | AED 650 per car | Shorter and cooler, with no late finish |
| VIP Safari + 4-Seater Buggy | AED 1,950 per buggy | A shared buggy ride, plus an air-conditioned VIP seating area at the camp |
Evening or morning with children?
The evening safari has the most for children to see and do, but pickup is at 3:00 – 3:30 PM and you are back at 9:30 – 9:45 PM, which can be late for little ones. The morning safari is shorter and cooler, though it does not include the camp, shows or dinner. Our guide to morning vs evening desert safaris explains the differences.
Dune bashing with children
Dune bashing is a fast, bumpy off-road ride, so it is not the right fit for everyone. If you are travelling with babies or very young children, or anyone in your group has a health concern, please message us before you book. We will tell you what is suitable for your family and what your options are.
What to bring for kids
- Sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen
- A light jacket for the cooler months, as the desert can get chilly after dark
- Closed shoes that are easy to take off, or sandals for the sand
- A change of clothes and wet wipes
- Any snacks or medicine your child usually needs
- A motion sickness remedy if your child gets car sick (ask your doctor or pharmacist what is suitable)
For more ideas, read what to wear on a desert safari and the best time for a desert safari.
Planning a family trip? See our full list of desert safari tours or ask us on WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions
Is a desert safari in Dubai good for kids?
Yes, many families enjoy it. Children can enjoy camel rides, sandboarding, a kids play area, live shows and dinner at the camp. Message us before booking if you are travelling with very young children.
Which desert safari is best for families?
The Private Desert Safari is a good choice for families, at AED 650 per car for up to 6 guests, because you have your own Toyota Land Cruiser. The Evening Desert Safari from AED 89 per person is the budget option.
Can young children go dune bashing?
Dune bashing is a fast, bumpy ride, so please message us before you book if you are travelling with babies or very young children. We will advise you on what is suitable.
What time does a family evening safari finish?
Drop-off is at about 9:30 – 9:45 PM. If that is too late for your children, consider a morning safari.