A First-Timer’s Guide to Evening Desert Safari in Dubai
Introduction
Globally-renowned attractions & marvellous architecture define the city of Dubai; but to capture the essence of Arabia that lies in the city’s soul, you must go for a desert safari outside the city. While this safari can be undertaken at any time of the day, the evening desert safari is much-vaunted as a highly thrilling activity – especially for first-time visitors like you. From adrenaline-pumping activities to cultural extravaganza at the desert camp, this safari perfectly brings together cultural tradition, a spirit of adventure, and remarkable natural beauty.
Read on to know more about a first-timer’s guide to evening desert safari in Dubai.
1. What is an Evening Desert Safari?
Simply put, in an evening desert safari, you would be taken to the glowing deserts outside Dubai a little before dusk. The sun heads for the western horizon, creating surreal shades on the golden sands. And as the clock progresses towards night, a canopy of stars arrives overhead. The desert cools down with a mildly chilly breeze comforting you. And gear up – there are several exciting activities lined up!
The best part about the evening desert safari is – it is not restricted to a typical tourist profile. Adventure lovers, romantic couples, families, groups of friends, solo travelers – everyone can derive complete enjoyment from this highly rewarding trip.
2. The Thrill of Dune Bashing
This is one of the purest adrenaline rush-inducing activities in the desert safari. You would be reaching the desert in sturdy 4×4 SUVs, equipped with the most updated technology. And these massively powerful vehicles would race up the steep sand dunes at superfast speeds – only to hurtle down the slopes at even more breakneck speeds! The hugely skilled drivers navigate the sharp bends & steep slopes with chilled-out professionalism – reinforcing the fact that passenger safety is the top priority, no questions asked.
And all the while during this sandy rollercoaster experience, you would be rewarded with spectacular views of the golden-hued deserts. By any standards, this is an experience of a lifetime. And the incomparable safety measures that are adopted take the attraction quotient of dune bashing several notches higher.
If you haven’t had your fill of adventure with dune bashing, try out equally thrilling quad biking or sand boarding. This will complete your quota of pulse-pounding desert safari experience, for sure!
3. Cultural & Traditional Experiences
Once done with the pulsating dune bashing & quad biking, explore the desert in a traditional manner – on a camelback safari. Let the “ship of the desert” walk gently along the sparkling sands as you admire the beauty around you, and also try & catch the sights of elusive desert fauna like gazelle & Arabian oryx.
And now, it’s time to head for the Bedouin-styled desert camp that’s fitted with every modern amenity to make you feel supremely comfortable. Discover the myriad aspects of Arabian culture here, dear first-time visitor! Indulge in some henna painting, get into traditional Arabian costumes for some exciting photo sessions, and get awed at the falconry show that will be put up.
And then, some throbbing entertainment will start – in the form of belly dancing, Tanoura, and fire shows. All these are age-old customs of the Arabian lands, designed to entertain the viewers – while also showcasing the rich Arabian heritage. You can enjoy a similar experience with an overnight desert safari Dubai, where you get to stay under the stars and witness the desert sky twinkle all night long. You will be mesmerized by the performances of the local artistes, without a doubt! Revel in this unique and first-time experience!
4. Dining under the Stars
Time to pamper your taste buds – in gala style! A delectable BBQ buffet dinner awaits you, complete with live grill counters. The menu, available in both veg & non-veg variants, is a wonderful blend of local & global delicacies. And besides the lavish dinner spread, do also taste the renowned local Arabic coffee & dates – items of Arabian hospitality with which the locals welcomed guests, for centuries.
And what sets the mood is not the scrumptious food; having the dinner under the stars in the crystal clear sky is what makes the experience much more enjoyable. Away from the din & bustle of Dubai, it’s peace & quite all around here as you enjoy the fantastic food & soft beverages.
5. Best Time to Go & What to Wear
To enjoy the best of cool & pleasant weather, go for the evening desert safari anytime between the months of October & April.
Wear light & comfortable clothing, along with sandals or sport shoes. Keep light woollens or a scarf with you as evenings in desert get mildly chilly.
The idea is – dress suitably for the occasion, so that you can enjoy to your heart’s content. And keeping in mind the sensibilities of the region, please don’t wear revealing clothes.
6. Tips for First-Timers
- Ensure to book your trip with only reputed operators, after doing sufficient research
- Do stay properly hydrated. The desert climate is excessively dry
- Don’t ignore safety instructions of the guide/driver
- Pregnant women, infants, senior citizens, and tourists with orthopaedic problems will not be allowed for dune bashing
Conclusion
The evening desert safari is unmissable activity, especially for first-timer visitors. Combining cultural insights with some pure adrenaline rush amidst breathtaking natural surroundings, it gives you a chance to experience the true essence of the emirates – beyond the swanky malls & massive skyscrapers. So it goes without saying – you must add this trip to your Dubai itinerary!
