Dubai is a place where modern city life and old traditions come together and you can feel this mix most clearly when you step into the calm, golden desert just outside the city. For families traveling with children whether you are planning a week-long vacation or making the most of a quick layover a Dubai desert safari is often the highlight of the trip.
Many parents wonder if the desert is “kid-friendly” given the heat and the high-octane nature of dune bashing. The good news is that with a bit of planning, the desert becomes a massive, golden playground for children of all ages. Here is everything you need to know to ensure a safe, fun, and memorable adventure for your little ones.
Why a Desert Safari Works Well for Families?
Dubai’s desert safaris are not just thrilling dune rides. Many tour operators design family-friendly itineraries that slow things down, focus on comfort, and keep children engaged without overwhelming them.
For families on a layover, the safari is especially appealing because it doesn’t require multiple days or long-distance travel. Most tours last 4-6 hours and include hotel pickup and drop-off, making them convenient even if your time in Dubai is limited. Children also tend to enjoy the open landscapes, animals, and interactive elements far more than crowded malls or long sightseeing walks.
Choosing the Right Type of Safari
When planning your desert safari dubai excursion, the first step is selecting the right timing.
Morning Safari: Ideal for families with toddlers or those on a tight schedule. It usually lasts 3 to 4 hours and avoids the evening crowds. The temperatures are cooler, and you can be back at your hotel by lunch.
Evening Safari: This is the most popular choice. It includes cultural performances and a BBQ dinner. While it is longer (usually 6 hours), the sunset views are spectacular, and the camp activities keep kids engaged for hours.
Kid-Friendly Activities in the Dunes
A Dubai desert safari is much more than just a bumpy car ride. Modern tour operators have curated experiences specifically for younger travelers:
- Gentle Dune Bashing: Standard dune bashing can be intense. However, most operators offer “soft” or “gentle” sessions for families. If you have very young children, you can even opt for a private vehicle and ask the driver to skip the high-speed maneuvers entirely, taking a smooth scenic route to the camp instead.
- Sandboarding: Think of it as snowboarding, but on soft sand. It is incredibly safe for kids because the sand provides a cushioned landing. Younger children can sit on the board and slide down smaller dunes, while older kids can try standing up.
- Falconry Displays: Watching these majestic birds of prey in action is educational and mesmerizing for children. Many camps allow kids to hold a falcon (with a protective glove) for a unique photo opportunity.
- Cultural Fun: At the Bedouin-style camps, children can get traditional henna designs on their hands (using natural, skin-safe dyes) or dress up in local Emirati attire for family portraits.
The Logistics: Comfort and Safety
Safety is paramount when traveling with kids. Most reputable tour companies provide 4×4 vehicles equipped with roll cages and seat belts.
- Car Seats: If you are traveling with an infant or toddler, always request a car seat in advance.
- Hydration: The desert air is dry. Ensure your children drink water frequently, even if they don’t feel thirsty.
- Clothing: Dress them in light, breathable cotton layers. For evening safaris, bring a light jacket or sweater, as the desert temperature drops quickly once the sun sets.
Best Time to Go with Kids
The ideal time for a desert safari with children is between October and March, when temperatures are cooler and evenings are pleasant.
Afternoon-to-evening safaris work well because:
- The sun is less intense Kids can enjoy the sunset
- Dinner is included, reducing the need for late-night outings
During summer months, families should choose shorter tours or private safaris with flexible timing.
Can You Do This on a Layover?
Yes. Families transiting between long-haul flights often use Dubai as a stopover point. With proper scheduling, a safari can fit comfortably between flights without stress. This is especially useful for travelers booking long international routes and looking to make the most of their break.
Some travel services even bundle experiences like this under curated stopover programs, such as the Indian Eagle Dubai experience, making it easier for families to manage both flights and activities together.
Experiencing the desert with your children offers a refreshing contrast to city sightseeing. When planned thoughtfully, a Dubai desert safari becomes a safe, educational, and genuinely fun experience for the entire family whether you’re stopping over or visiting Dubai intentionally.
If you’re traveling between India and the USA destinations and have a layover in Dubai or are planning a short Dubai trip, Indian Eagle can help you find the best deals. Along with affordable flight bookings and 24/7 customer care team support your trip becomes a memorable family adventure rather than just waiting time.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the minimum age for a desert safari?
Most tour operators allow children as young as 3 years old on a standard desert safari. However, infants under 3 are generally discouraged from dune bashing for safety reasons. For families with infants, a private “slow drive” or a direct trip to the desert camp is a better alternative.
How much is desert safari for kids?
Prices typically depend on the child’s age.. Kids under 3 often join for free, though they may not be allowed on the dune bashing portion of the trip. VIP or private packages will cost more but offer better flexibility for families.
Can kids ride camels in Dubai?
Yes! Camel riding is a staple of the desert experience. Most camps offer short, guided rides that are included in the package. These are very slow-paced and handled by experienced trainers who lead the camel by a rope.
Can a 3 year old ride a camel?
Yes, a 3-year-old can ride a camel, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The child usually sits in front of the parent on the hump. It is a gentle, rhythmic swaying motion that most toddlers find fascinating rather than frightening.
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