Dubai Desert for a first safari

Dubai Desert is one of the best choices for a first safari.

Suitability: ★★★★★

Established in 2002, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve covers about 226 km² and protects Arabian oryx, Arabian gazelle and sand gazelle. The surrounding Lahbab and Al Awir dunes are the most common setting for desert safaris from Dubai city.

Why Dubai Desert for a first safari?

• 1–2 days are enough for a good experience.

What awaits you in Dubai Desert

• Arabian oryx and gazelles in a reserve of about 226 km²
• 4x4 nature drives on set routes inside the reserve
• Red dunes of Lahbab for dune drives and sandboarding
• Sunrise hot-air balloon flights over the desert
• Desert camp evenings and stargazing

Wildlife you may encounter: oryx, gazelles, foxes, camels and birdlife.

Suggested time on the ground: 1 to 2 days. The reserve is about an hour by road from Dubai International Airport. Visits inside the reserve run only through a small number of approved operators or the resort inside it, with no self-drive; dune trips in the Lahbab and Al Awir area are run by licensed safari companies.

Activities that fit

game drives, dune bashing and camel rides.

When to go

The best period overall is December to February.

Best period for desert activities, with typical daytime highs of roughly 24–30°C.

Other destinations for a first safari

• Sharqiya Sands Oman
• Sir Bani Yas Island United Arab Emirates
• AlUla Saudi Arabia
• Ras Al Jinz Oman
• Ras Al Khaimah Desert United Arab Emirates
• Khor Al Adaid Qatar

Full Dubai Desert guideBest safaris for a first safari

Sources: Dubai Municipality – Dubai protected areas · Protected Planet – Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve · Weather Spark – Al Ain climate (inland UAE reference) · Weather Spark – Dubai climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.