How much is the morning desert safari in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. One of the most popular tourist activities in this majestic city is the desert safari. Known for its thrilling experiences and breathtaking landscapes, the morning desert safari is a must-try for those seeking adventure and tranquility at the same time.

But how much does a morning desert safari cost in Abu Dhabi? In this guide, we’ll cover the typical price ranges, the factors affecting the price, and what you can expect from this exhilarating experience.

Price Range of Morning Desert Safari

In Abu Dhabi, the cost of a morning desert safari generally ranges from AED 150 to AED 400 per person. While there are budget-friendly options, more premium services that offer added comfort, exclusive activities, or private tours will cost significantly more.

Here’s a breakdown of the pricing options:

Standard Packages (AED 150 – AED 200): These are the most basic options, offering essential activities such as dune bashing, sandboarding, and sometimes camel riding. Refreshments like water and soft drinks are usually included. These tours are usually group tours, meaning you’ll share the experience with other tourists.

Mid-range Packages (AED 200 – AED 300): This price range typically offers a bit more in terms of comfort and inclusivity. You may get longer dune bashing sessions, a wider variety of refreshments, and possibly some additional activities such as quad biking (at an extra cost). These tours might also include hotel pick-up and drop-off services, enhancing convenience for tourists.

Premium Packages (AED 300 – AED 400 and above): If you’re willing to pay more, premium morning desert safari packages offer exclusive features. These might include private tours, more time in the desert, or additional activities like longer camel rides, personalized photography sessions, and gourmet refreshments.

Factors Affecting the Price

Various factors determine how much you’ll pay for a morning desert safari.

1. Tour Operator

The reputation and credibility of the tour operator play a significant role in determining the cost. Established operators with years of experience and glowing reviews might charge higher due to their superior service quality. On the other hand, newer operators may offer more competitive prices to attract customers.

2. Inclusions

The more activities a safari offers, the higher the cost will likely be. Common activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding are generally included in all packages, but premium packages might include additional services such as quad biking, falconry, or even cultural experiences like traditional Bedouin breakfasts.

3. Group vs. Private Tours

Most of the cheaper options will be group tours where you’ll share the experience with other travelers. For those looking for a more personalized experience, private tours are an option, though they come with a significantly higher price tag. These tours ensure that you get more time and attention, often making them worth the extra cost for people who value privacy or have specific preferences.

4. Time of Year

High tourist seasons such as winter (November to March) tend to drive prices up due to increased demand. Conversely, in the summer months, you may find cheaper deals as fewer people want to brave the intense desert heat.

Booking Tips

Book in advance: Morning desert safaris are incredibly popular, especially during the cooler months, so booking your tour in advance is recommended.

Look for deals: Some operators offer discounts, especially during the off-peak season, so keep an eye out for special promotions or group discounts.

Read reviews: To ensure you get the best value for your money, read reviews from previous travelers. Platforms like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews can provide insights into the quality of service and experiences offered by different operators.