Morning Desert Safari: A Thrilling Start to Your Day in Dubai

Samara Rose

August 5, 2025

Table of Content

Introduction to Morning Desert Safari

The morning desert safari in Dubai is a breathtaking adventure that offers an exciting and peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Unlike the evening safari, the Morning Desert Safari showcases the golden beauty of the desert in the early hours, when the sun is rising, and the sand is cool and smooth. This experience is perfect for those who prefer a quieter and more serene exploration of the desert, yet still packed with adrenaline-pumping activities like dune bashing, camel riding, quad biking, and sandboarding.

Why Choose a Morning Safari Over an Evening Safari?

The morning desert safari has its own unique charm that sets it apart from the popular evening safaris. The early start means cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and fewer crowds. Here are a few reasons why travelers prefer the morning safari:

Cooler Weather: The early hours offer a more comfortable climate, especially during the hotter months.
Peaceful Surroundings: With fewer tourists, it offers a more private and serene experience.
Adventure-Focused: Most morning safaris are designed to focus on action and adventure.
Better Photography: The golden hues of sunrise provide stunning photo opportunities.
More Free Time: Since the safari ends by mid-morning, you still have the rest of the day for other activities.

What to Expect from a Morning Desert Safari

The typical morning desert safari starts between 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM, depending on the season. Here’s what most packages include:

1. Hotel Pickup and Drive to the Desert

The adventure begins with a comfortable 4×4 vehicle picking you up from your hotel or residence. The journey to the desert itself takes about 30 to 45 minutes. As you leave the city behind, you’ll notice the landscape gradually transform into endless dunes.

2. Dune Bashing – The Ultimate Off-Road Experience

Once you reach the desert, the thrill kicks off with dune bashing. An expert driver takes you on an exhilarating ride across the sand dunes, driving up and down the slopes at varying speeds. This 20-30 minute rollercoaster ride in a 4×4 Land Cruiser is not for the faint of heart but is absolutely thrilling.

3. Sandboarding – Glide Down the Dunes

After dune bashing, you’ll have the chance to try sandboarding, a sport similar to snowboarding but on desert sand. You’ll strap your feet onto a board and slide down the high dunes. It’s safe, fun, and a favorite among tourists of all ages.

4. Camel Ride – A Taste of Traditional Bedouin Travel

One of the most iconic desert experiences is riding a camel. These gentle giants take you for a short journey across the desert, giving you a chance to experience travel the way ancient Bedouins did. It’s calm, rhythmic, and offers a great opportunity for photos.

5. Quad Biking and Buggy Rides (Optional Add-ons)

For those seeking even more excitement, many safari operators offer quad biking and dune buggy rides as optional activities. Quad bikes are easy to operate and provide a solo adventure across the open desert. Buggy rides offer a similar thrill, often with two-seater options for couples or friends.

6. Refreshments and Light Breakfast

Most morning safari packages include bottled water, soft drinks, and light snacks. Some may also provide a traditional Emirati breakfast with tea, coffee, dates, and bread depending on the package.

Ideal Time for a Morning Safari

The best time for a morning desert safari is during the cooler months – October to April. The weather is pleasant, and the early morning light adds a magical touch to the desert landscape. During summer, morning safaris are still conducted but begin earlier (around 5:00 AM) to avoid the intense heat later in the day.

Duration and Timings

A typical morning safari lasts for about 4 to 5 hours including travel time. Here’s a general timeline:

5:00 AM – 6:00 AM: Pickup from hotel
6:30 AM: Arrival at desert, dune bashing begins
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Camel ride, sandboarding, quad biking
9:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Drop-off at hotel

Exact timing may vary slightly depending on the tour operator and location.

What to Wear on a Morning Desert Safari

Desert conditions demand comfortable and practical clothing. Here’s what to wear:

Lightweight clothing: Cotton shirts and trousers/shorts are ideal.
Closed shoes: Sneakers or trainers are best for walking on sand.
Sunglasses and hat: To protect from the sun.
Sunscreen: Even in the morning, the sun can be strong.
Scarf or shawl: Useful to cover your face from sand during dune bashing.

Who Can Enjoy a Morning Desert Safari?

The morning desert safari is suitable for almost everyone – families, couples, solo travelers, and even senior citizens. However, some activities like dune bashing and quad biking may not be recommended for:

Pregnant women
Individuals with back or heart problems
Children under 3 years

In such cases, safari operators usually provide alternative arrangements or a modified itinerary.

Safety Measures and Professional Guides

Safety is a top priority for all reputable desert safari operators. Here are a few key points to ensure a safe trip:

Experienced Drivers: All dune bashing drivers are licensed professionals trained in desert driving.
Well-maintained Vehicles: 4x4s used are usually modern and fitted with safety features like roll cages and seatbelts.
First Aid Ready: Basic medical aid is usually available with the guide or driver.
Guided Instructions: Before any activity, safety instructions are clearly explained.

Morning Desert Safari for Photography Enthusiasts

If you love capturing nature and landscapes, morning is the perfect time. The lighting conditions are ideal during sunrise, and you’ll get incredible shots of the endless dunes, camel caravans, and wildlife such as Arabian oryx or desert foxes (if lucky). Don’t forget to carry a good camera or smartphone with enough storage.

Eco-Friendly Desert Tourism

Many safari companies are now focusing on eco-tourism to preserve the fragile desert ecosystem. You can contribute by:

Avoiding littering
Not disturbing desert wildlife
Choosing operators that follow sustainable practices
Using reusable water bottles where possible

Booking Tips for a Morning Safari

Here are some helpful tips to consider before booking:

Book in Advance: Especially during tourist season (October to April).
Read Reviews: Choose well-reviewed and certified tour operators.
Check Inclusions: Make sure the package includes what you’re expecting – activities, breakfast, pickup, etc.
Ask About Add-ons: If you’re interested in quad biking or dune buggy rides, check if they’re included or available on-site.

Costs of Morning Desert Safari

The price of a morning safari in Dubai varies based on the inclusions:

Basic Package (dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding): AED 150 – AED 250 per person
With Quad Biking/Dune Buggy: AED 300 – AED 500 or more
Private Tours: May cost upwards of AED 600 depending on vehicle and services

Always check what’s included in the price to avoid hidden charges.

Conclusion

The morning desert safari is an ideal experience for early risers and adventure lovers. It combines thrill, culture, and natural beauty into a compact yet unforgettable morning outing. Whether you’re sliding down the dunes, riding camels, or enjoying the golden views of the desert sunrise, every moment of the safari is packed with wonder and excitement.

Unlike the evening safari which focuses more on entertainment and dining, the morning tour is for those who want action, solitude, and photography opportunities. It’s peaceful, energetic, and allows you to explore the majestic Arabian desert at its freshest and calmest.

So, if you’re visiting Dubai and want to start your day with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, book a morning desert safari – a journey that promises memories you’ll cherish forever.

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