Choosing the right desert safari tour in Dubai can be confusing because there are so many options, Evening, VIP, Premium, Private, and Luxury safaris all sound similar but offer very different experiences.
This page helps you compare Dubai desert safari tours side by side so you can clearly see what’s included, what’s different, and which one fits your travel style and budget.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly evening safari, a VIP desert safari with waiter service, or a premium desert safari with upgraded food and camp setup, this comparison shows you exactly what you get in each package.
Below, you’ll find a detailed comparison table that explains the pickup type, dune bashing time, food quality, seating style, and prices, everything you need to choose your perfect desert adventure in Dubai.
Choosing between the Standard, VIP, and Premium Desert Safari tours can be tricky, especially if it’s your first time visiting Dubai. Each package includes dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, BBQ dinner, and live entertainment, but the level of comfort, service, and food quality changes with each upgrade. Use this quick table to compare all three options and decide which experience fits your budget and style.
| Feature | Evening Desert Safari (Standard) | VIP Desert Safari | Premium Desert Safari |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pickup & Drop-off | Shared 4×4 pickup & drop-off from Dubai or Sharjah | Shared 4×4 pickup & drop-off from your location | Shared 4×4 pickup & drop-off from your location |
| Dune Bashing | 25–30 mins of red dune bashing in Lahbab Desert | 25–30 mins of dune bashing | 25–30 mins of dune bashing |
| Camel Ride & Sandboarding | Included (short ride) | Included (short ride) | Included (short ride) |
| Camp Type | Regular shared camp | Regular camp with VIP seating area | Upgraded premium camp with enhanced ambiance |
| Seating Area | Standard open-air seating | VIP front seating near the stage | Premium lounge-style seating with better décor |
| Waiter Service | No waiter (self-service buffet) | Dedicated waiter service for food & drinks | Assisted buffet service with premium setup |
| Food & Menu | Standard BBQ dinner menu | Same menu with waiter service | Upgraded BBQ dinner with extended menu & live counters |
| Entertainment Shows | Belly Dance, Tanoura, Fire Show | Same shows from VIP seating area | Same shows with premium view |
| Soft Drinks & Water | Unlimited soft drinks included | Unlimited soft drinks included | Unlimited soft drinks included |
| Price (per adult) | AED 130 | AED 180 | AED 210 |
| Best For | Budget travelers & first-time visitors | Guests who prefer comfort & waiter service | Travelers who want premium food & upgraded camp |
Compare the main differences between our Private Desert Safari, Luxury Desert Safari,
and Group (Shared) Desert Safari. All options include dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, BBQ dinner,
and live shows. The differences are privacy, comfort level, vehicle type, and price.
| Feature | Private Desert Safari | Luxury Desert Safari | Group (Shared) Desert Safari |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Private 4×4 for your group only | G-Wagon (or similar high-end) | Shared 4×4 with other guests |
| Privacy | Full privacy in the vehicle | Premium experience; shared camp | Shared vehicle & shared camp |
| Pickup & Drop-off | Door-to-door in private 4×4 | Door-to-door in luxury SUV | Door-to-door in shared 4×4 |
| Flexibility & Timing | Flexible pickup window & special requests | Flexible with concierge-style support | Fixed shared schedule |
| Dune Bashing | ~25–30 mins (can request soft drive) | ~25–30 mins (premium vehicles) | ~25–30 mins (standard) |
| Seating at Camp | Reserved seating for your group | VIP/Premium seating close to stage | Standard seating area (shared) |
| Food & Menu | Standard BBQ dinner (veg & non-veg) | Upgraded menu / premium dinner setup | Standard BBQ dinner (buffet) |
| Service Level | Staff assistance; private host vibe | High-touch service (concierge feel) | Self-service (shared) |
| Price | From AED 750 per vehicle (up to 6) | AED 1500 per adult (package-dependent) | AED 130 per adult |
| Best For | Families, small groups, custom pace | Special occasions, couples, gifting | Budget travelers & first-timers |
| Pros | Privacy, flexible timing, easier with kids | Luxury vehicle, premium dining & seating | Lowest price, full experience |
| Considerations | Per-vehicle pricing (best value with 4–6) | Highest price category | Shared schedule & seating |
Evening Desert Safari (Standard)
Best for budget and first-time visitors. You get dune bashing (~25–30 mins), a short camel ride, sandboarding, BBQ dinner, and live shows in a shared camp.
VIP Desert Safari
Best for comfort without going private. Same activities as Standard, but with VIP seating near the stage and waiter service during dinner.
Premium Desert Safari
Best for upgraded food and ambiance. Same core activities, plus a premium camp setup and an upgraded BBQ menu with more variety.
Private Desert Safari
Best for families, couples, and small groups. A private 4×4 for your group, flexible timing, easier with kids or seniors, and a more relaxed pace at camp.
Luxury Desert Safari
Best for special occasions. Luxury SUV (e.g., G-Wagon), premium dining, lounge-style seating, and high-touch service for a high-end experience.
Group (Shared) Desert Safari
Best value if you want the full desert experience at the lowest price. Social vibe, shared vehicle and camp, all the core inclusions.
The main difference is in comfort and dining.
Yes. The Private Desert Safari is perfect for families or couples who prefer privacy, flexible timing, and a dedicated 4×4. It’s especially good if you have kids or want to avoid shared vehicles.
Every package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, dune bashing (25–30 mins), camel ride, sandboarding, BBQ dinner, soft drinks, and live entertainment like belly dance, Tanoura, and fire shows.
For further information or assistance, feel free to contact our customer service via email or phone provided on our website.
Wear light, breathable clothes like cotton or linen. Closed shoes are recommended for dune bashing and sandboarding. Bring a light jacket for cooler evenings in winter months.
Yes, most operators allow you to skip or request a gentle dune drive instead. You can wait at the camp while others enjoy dune bashing.
