Introduction
Planning a desert safari in Dubai is one of the most exciting parts of any Middle Eastern trip. But if you’re budgeting carefully, the first question that usually comes to mind is: What is the desert safari Dubai cost per person in rupees?
The cost varies depending on the type of safari, the level of luxury, and the activities included. Whether you want a budget-friendly desert evening with BBQ dinner or a luxury buggy adventure under the stars, this guide will help you understand the prices, experiences, and value so you can plan smartly and enjoy every moment of your trip.
Why Desert Safari Dubai Is Worth the Cost
A desert safari is more than just a ride into the sand it’s a full cultural and adventure experience. For a single ticket price, you usually enjoy:
- Adventure – Dune bashing in powerful 4×4 vehicles.
- Culture – Camel rides, falcon shows, and traditional hospitality.
- Entertainment – Tanoura dance, fire shows, and belly dancing.
- Cuisine – Lavish BBQ buffets with Arabic and international dishes.
When you break down the price against everything included, you realize it offers excellent value compared to booking activities separately.
Desert Safari Dubai Cost per Person in Rupees
Most desert safari operators in Dubai list prices in AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham). To make it easier for international travelers, here’s a breakdown in Indian Rupees (approximate) based on an exchange rate of 1 AED ≈ ₹22.7 (subject to change).
| Type of Safari | Average Cost (AED) | Approx. in Rupees (per person) | What’s Included |
| Evening Desert Safari | 150–250 AED | ₹3,400 – ₹5,700 | Dune bashing, camel ride, shows, BBQ dinner |
| Morning Desert Safari | 120–200 AED | ₹2,700 – ₹4,500 | Sunrise ride, sandboarding, soft drinks |
| Overnight Desert Safari | 300–400 AED | ₹6,800 – ₹9,100 | Camping, stargazing, breakfast, evening shows |
| Premium Desert Safari (VIP) | 500–700 AED | ₹11,400 – ₹15,900 | Luxury tents, private service, fine dining |
| Buggy/Quad Bike Add-ons | 400–1,500 AED | ₹9,000 – ₹34,000+ | Self-drive buggy, helmets, safety gear |
Note: Prices fluctuate based on season, operator, and inclusions like hotel transfers or meals.
Cost Breakdown & What’s Included
When you purchase a desert safari package, you’re not only paying for the ride. The ticket usually covers multiple elements such as:
- Transport: Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in a 4×4.
- Activities: Dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, or falcon photography.
- Food & Drinks: Unlimited soft beverages, Arabic tea, and a BBQ buffet dinner.
- Shows: Belly dancing, Tanoura performances, or fire acts.
- Add-Ons: Shisha smoking, henna tattoos, and photo opportunities.
This all-in-one pricing model ensures you enjoy a full desert evening without worrying about separate expenses.
Best Time to Book for Value
- Peak Season (Nov–March): Prices are slightly higher, but the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
- Off-Peak (April–Oct): Cheaper rates, though daytime can be hot evenings are still enjoyable.
- Weekdays vs Weekends: Weekdays often have better deals since weekends are busier.
- Advance Booking: Online bookings and early reservations can save you 10–20%.
If you’re traveling on a budget, aim for evening safaris during shoulder season (Oct/April) best balance between weather and price.
Buggy & Quad Biking Options
If you want to spice up your desert safari, add a buggy or quad bike ride. These self-drive options cost extra but are among the most thrilling ways to explore the dunes.
- Entry-level quad bike rides: Start at around 400 AED (~₹9,000).
- Two-seater dune buggies: Around 999 AED (~₹22,700).
- Premium high-performance models: Like the RZR Pro or Can-Am Maverick, go up to 1,500 AED (~₹34,000).
While it increases the cost per person, it transforms your safari into a once in a lifetime adrenaline adventure.
Tips to Get the Best Value on Your Desert Safari
Everyone wants the best experience at the lowest possible cost, and the good news is that with a few smart tricks, you can save a lot while still enjoying a premium safari. Here are some practical tips:
1. Compare Multiple Operators
Don’t book with the first company you find. Dubai has dozens of safari providers, and prices can vary significantly for almost the same package. Take time to check a few operators, read customer reviews, and look at what extras they offer (such as free soft drinks, better seating for shows, or private transfers). Sometimes, a small difference in price means a big upgrade in quality.
2. Always Check Inclusions Carefully
Not all packages are equal. A cheaper safari might exclude important features such as hotel transfers, BBQ dinner, or live entertainment. Before booking, always review the inclusions line by line. It’s better to spend a little extra upfront rather than arrive in the desert and realize you have to pay for add-ons separately.
3. Look for Combo Offers and Bundles
If you’re visiting Dubai for the first time, consider buying a combo package. Many operators offer deals like:
- Desert safari + dune buggy ride
- Safari + Dubai city tour
- Safari + dhow cruise dinner
These combos often come at a discounted price compared to booking each tour individually, giving you more experiences for less money.
4. Book Online for Exclusive Discounts
Most safari companies offer online only promotions that aren’t available at physical counters or hotel desks. Online platforms also allow you to compare operators instantly, view real traveler photos, and sometimes even apply coupon codes. Booking early also locks in lower prices before seasonal rates go up.
5. Travel in a Group
If you’re traveling with friends or family, ask about group discounts. Some providers lower the price per person when you book for 4–6 guests together. Sharing a buggy or private car also makes it cheaper compared to individual bookings.
6. Choose the Right Season
Dubai’s tourism prices fluctuate with the weather. Winter months (Nov–March) are peak season with slightly higher prices, but the weather is perfect. If you don’t mind warmer evenings, visiting in April or October gives you almost the same experience at a lower cost.
Conclusion
A desert safari in Dubai is more than just an activity it’s an unforgettable journey into Arabian culture, adventure, and natural beauty. While costs vary depending on package type and add-ons, most travelers find the experience worth every rupee. From budget evening safaris to luxury overnight camps and thrilling buggy rides, there’s a perfect option for every traveler.
When planning, always compare inclusions, book in advance for the best rates, and balance your budget with the kind of adventure you want. Whether you spend ₹3,500 or ₹30,000, the memories of your desert safari will be priceless.
FAQs
The average evening safari costs ₹3,400 – ₹5,700 per person, while premium or buggy safaris can go up to ₹30,000+ depending on the package.
Most operators offer discounted rates for children aged 3–10. Infants under 3 are usually free.
Yes, almost all evening and overnight packages include a BBQ buffet with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
Yes, some operators allow guests to drive directly to the desert meeting point, reducing the cost slightly.
A basic 30-minute buggy ride costs around ₹9,000, while high-end models for 1 hour can cost ₹22,000 – ₹34,000+.
Absolutely. When you add up dune bashing, food, shows, and cultural experiences, the safari offers exceptional value compared to booking separately.
No. Payments are charged in AED, but your bank or card will convert the amount into rupees at the current exchange rate.