The difference between regular and premium desert safaris in Dubai lies in exclusivity, comfort, and level of service. Both include core desert experiences like dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides but premium safaris elevate them with private setups, gourmet dining, and VIP seating. Tour operators like Arabian Desert Safari Dubai offer both options to suit different budgets and expectations.
What Does a Regular Desert Safari Include?
A regular desert safari offers the essential adventure and cultural experiences of Dubai’s desert landscape at an affordable price. It’s ideal for travelers who want the thrill of dune bashing and desert camp entertainment without luxury add-ons.
The experience typically begins with a shared 4×4 pickup from your hotel, followed by dune bashing in the Lahbab or Al Awir Desert. Afterward, guests enjoy sandboarding, camel rides, and a lively Bedouin-style camp with a BBQ dinner and traditional performances.
Key Features of a Regular Safari
- Shared 4×4 transport with group pickup and drop-off
- 20–30 minutes of dune bashing
- Sandboarding and camel rides
- Henna art and Arabic coffee
- Open buffet BBQ dinner (vegetarian and non-vegetarian options)
- Tanoura dance, fire show, and belly dance (evening safaris)
- Basic camp seating (shared area)
This option provides excellent value for money and covers all the core activities that make Dubai’s desert safaris world-famous.
What Makes a Premium Desert Safari Different?
A premium desert safari delivers an upgraded experience focused on privacy, comfort, and personalization. The itinerary remains similar to a regular safari, but every detail from transport to dining is designed for exclusivity.
Guests are picked up in a private 4×4 vehicle directly from their hotel, with flexible timing and route customization. Upon arrival, they are welcomed with fresh dates, Arabic sweets, and VIP seating in a private majlis at the desert camp. Dinner is served at the table, and performances are viewed from front-row seats.
Premium Safari Features
- Private 4×4 transfer (no shared vehicle)
- Priority dune bashing with customizable intensity
- Dedicated camp area or private tent
- VIP dining service (table-served BBQ and refreshments)
- Premium seating for live performances
- Additional experiences like falcon photography and shisha lounges
- Optional upgrades: Dune buggy rides, longer camel treks, or sunset photo sessions
This version offers a luxurious take on the desert adventure, perfect for honeymooners, families, and guests seeking privacy or premium hospitality.
How Do the Prices Compare?
Pricing is one of the most visible differences between regular and premium safaris. Regular safaris are priced for accessibility, while premium safaris justify their higher cost with exclusivity and personalized service.
| Feature | Regular Desert Safari | Premium Desert Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range (AED) | 130 – 250 per person | 210 – 800 per person or vehicle |
| Transport Type | Shared 4×4 | Private 4×4 |
| Dune Bashing Duration | 20 – 30 minutes | 30 – 45 minutes (customizable) |
| Dining Setup | Shared buffet | Table service or private dining |
| Seating Area | Common camp | Premium Camo or Premium Sitting Area |
| Entertainment Access | Standard | Front-row priority |
| Extras | Limited | Falconry, photo session, luxury lounge |
Premium safaris usually cost double a regular tour, but they offer triple the comfort and convenience.
What Kind of Food Is Served in Each Package?
Food plays a defining role in distinguishing both safari types. Regular safaris feature buffet-style dining, while premium safaris offer multi-course, table-served meals with wider variety and live grill options.
Regular Safari Menu
- Grilled chicken, kebabs, and rice
- Hummus, salads, and bread
- Soft drinks, tea, and Arabic coffee
- Desserts like Umm Ali or baklava
Premium Safari Menu
- Live BBQ and mixed grill platter
- Fresh seafood options (on request)
- Arabic mezze and international dishes
- Fresh fruit, mocktails, and juices
- Dedicated table service with waiter assistance
Premium dining areas are often less crowded, offering comfort, privacy, and uninterrupted views of performances.
What Type of Vehicles Are Used for Each Safari?
Both safaris use 4×4 vehicles approved by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), but the comfort level and exclusivity differ.
Regular Safari
- Shared 4×4 vehicles (usually Toyota Land Cruisers)
- 6–7 passengers per car
- Standard air-conditioning and suspension
Premium Safari
- Private, luxury 4×4 (Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, or Range Rover)
- Exclusive driver-guide for your group
- Adjustable dune bashing intensity
- Complimentary water and chilled towels inside the car
Premium tours may also include self-drive buggy or quad bike options for an extra dose of thrill.
How Is Guest Comfort Managed?
Comfort levels in premium safaris are noticeably higher due to limited crowding and upgraded facilities. Camps are designed for fewer guests, providing a serene and personalized ambiance.
In regular safaris, shared facilities like restrooms and seating can get busy during peak seasons. However, both versions maintain hygiene, shaded tents, and air-conditioned rest areas.
Premium setups often feature:
- Private restrooms
- Carpeted tents with cushions and lanterns
- Personal waiter and service staff
- Exclusive viewing deck for sunset photography
Which Safari Offers Better Photography Opportunities?
Both safaris include a sunset photo stop, but premium packages give you flexibility to pause at multiple scenic points.The private vehicle option allows guests to customize their stopovers for better lighting, dune angles, and family portraits.
Regular safaris follow fixed group routes and limited time windows for photography. For professional or content creators, premium safaris are ideal for capturing Dubai’s desert at its most dramatic.
Which Safari Is More Family-Friendly?
Families traveling with young children or elderly members often prefer premium safaris for their controlled pace and privacy. The ability to customize dune bashing intensity, choose meal times, and relax in private spaces ensures comfort for all age groups.
Regular safaris are still family-friendly but may involve longer waiting times, group pacing, and shared dining areas.
| Family Aspect | Regular Safari | Premium Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Child-Friendly Setup | Yes, but group-paced | Highly flexible |
| Elderly Comfort | Moderate | Excellent (custom speed) |
| Privacy | Limited | Full privacy |
| Photo Sessions | Shared stops | Private customization |
How Do the Experiences Compare Overall?
In essence, a regular desert safari delivers adventure and cultural fun at a reasonable price, while a premium safariturns the same experience into a private, luxurious event.
| Experience Factor | Regular Safari | Premium Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Adventure Level | Moderate | Adjustable |
| Comfort | Basic | High-end |
| Entertainment | Standard | Enhanced |
| Service Quality | Group-based | Personalized |
| Ideal For | Budget travelers & groups | Families, couples, luxury seekers |
Why Choose Arabian Desert Safari Dubai for Either Option?
Arabian Desert Safari Dubai operates under full DTCM and RTA licensing, ensuring safety and quality across all tour categories. Whether you choose the affordability of a regular safari or the exclusivity of a premium one, the company guarantees:
- Professional, trained desert drivers
- Well-maintained 4×4 vehicles
- Safety-first operations
- Authentic Bedouin hospitality
With real-time booking options and flexible customization, every guest experiences the desert on their own terms—without compromising safety or authenticity.
Ready to Choose Your Safari Experience?
Discover Dubai’s desert your way—adventurous or luxurious. Book your Regular or Premium Desert Safari today with Arabian Desert Safari Dubai and secure your spot before weekend and holiday rush. Experience world-class safety, comfort, and Arabian hospitality in every ride.
Name: Arabian Desert Safari Dubai
Address: Marina Plaza – Marsa Dubai – Dubai Marina – Dubai
Phone: 0544747041
Website: https://arabiandesertsafari.net
Google Maps: Dubai Marina, Marina Plaza
Hours: Open 24 hours