Exploring the desert in Dubai: The safari tour is one of the most thrilling family journeys you can have in the UAE. But for many parents, the question is: Is it OK for kids? The good news is yes. If planned properly, an adventurous Dubai desert safari with kids can be safe, fun, and highly memorable. Home to a host of desert safari experiences suitable for families, including fun Desert safaris for child-friendly activities such as camel rides and cultural shows. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about smoking meat with and I’ll even share all of my favorite tips so you can have a smooth and stress-free desert safari with children of all ages.
Magical Family Adventures in the Dunes
A desert safari in Dubai with kids is a bucket list experience that the whole family will enjoy. A family-friendly desert safari in Dubai can make lasting memories, whether it is your first time or part of an annual tradition. Whether it’s camel rides or cultural experiences such as traditional dance and music, there is something for kids of every age. And, it’s an excellent opportunity to introduce your kids to desert wildlife and the local culture through a hands-on experience. In this guide, we’ll help you plan the perfect desert safari for families, making sure it’s safe, fun, and unforgettable.
Is It Safe and Suitable for Children?
Many parents are asking if it is safe to do a desert safari with kids. Yes, with some caveats! Most Dubai tours have family-friendly desert safaris, which are designed to cater to families with kids. But, safety first, of course.
Gentle activities, such as camel rides and exploring a desert camp, are perfect for infants and toddlers. Older kids will love sandboarding and might be able to handle some gentle dune bashing. Just make sure you check the age policy for the tour you’re interested in before you book the tour to ensure it’s a good fit for your kids’ ages and needs.
Can Children Participate in Dubai Desert Safari Tours?

Yes, kids are allowed in Dubai desert safari tours, but there are a couple of things that you need to consider. Most operators welcome children from age 3, although you may have to wait until the child is 5 to participate in some activities, such as dune bashing. For babies and toddlers, nicer choices include camel rides, culture camp visits, and wildlife shows.
Call your selected provider and always inquire about the age limits for the age of realization of the desert safari in Dubai, and ask if the services provided or mild safari packages are available. Safety and comfort should always come first for little explorers.
Top Family-Friendly Activities in a Desert Safari
A Desert Safari with children comes with plenty of fun and kid-friendly activities. One of the most popular activities is a camel ride, a tame way to experience the dunes and introduce your little ones to desert life. Older kids can have some fun by sandboarding off the dunes or get the blood pumping with some cool yet mild dune bashing.
Don’t skip the cultural performances, traditional music and dance are often a kid pleaser. There are also opportunities for wildlife spotting and meeting falcons, making it a fun, educational trip for the whole family.
Choosing the Right Time of Day for Kids
Timing is crucial with a desert safari for families. It is hot in the desert, especially during the heat of the day, so if you do have little ones, it’s best to avoid the afternoon. Morning safaris tend to be cooler, while evening safaris are magical with beautiful sunsets and cooler temperatures that are ideal for children.
If you travel with toddlers or babies, go for an Evening desert safari, which is generally more relaxed and easier to manage around bedtime. Just make sure to check the weather forecast for the best time to go.
What to Pack for a Kid-Friendly Safari
Any idea you bring is worth it to make a family desert safari a successful experience. Don’t forget the sunscreen and wide-brim hats to keep their sensitive skin out of the sun, and hydrate with water bottles, which are important in these hot temperatures.

Infants and toddlers, bring diapers and wipes, and a change of clothes in a diaper bag. Snacks are never a bad call, in case young kids need something to shush and nosh on during the tour. If it’s going to be a morning or evening safari, consider bringing a light jacket to keep kids comfortable, as temperatures can drop in the desert.
Key Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know
The most priority thing to consider when taking children to a desert safari is safety. As always, make sure the tour operator is adhering to safety laws and has appropriate seating for children. If you have little ones still in car seats, inquire if the hotel provides one, or consider bringing your own.
And for activities such as dune bashing, ensure the tour has a soft version, or take the safer route of a camel ride instead. Always be beside your children during cultural activities or hamming around, otherwise held, when watching falcon shows to ensure they are safe in the crowd.
Choosing a Family-Oriented Tour Operator
Picking the right tour operator while booking a desert safari with kids is important. Seek out companies with kid-friendly packages, which include family activities and services. “If they have safety measures in place, such as seat belts for kids,” and can provide strollers or car seats.
Other parents’ reviews are also a good way to measure a service’s family-friendliness. And many operators have private tours available, which can be more comfortable and flexible for families with young children.
How to Prepare Kids for the Desert Safari
Getting your kids ready for a desert safari can help ensure the adventure is pleasant for all. Begin by describing what is in store: the heat, the sand, and the excitement. Tell them about camel rides, sandboarding, and the fun activities that await.
Discuss desert animals they might encounter, such as camels and falcons, and share information about desert culture. This will make the whole experience both more entertaining and educational for them.
Lastly, remind them to stay close during the tour and respect the desert environment. It’ll help keep them safe and make the day even more enjoyable.
What Most Parents Forget

Parents planning a desert safari with children often forget a few (but very important) details. First, see if the safari site has toilets and a place to change diapers. Not all of the desert camps have these, so ask ahead and avoid surprises.
One other thing that tends to get pushed aside is the value of nap time. If your child still naps, attempt to either schedule the safari around naps or to have a collapsible, comfortable seat for them to rest during the tour. Being prepared can help keep your kids happy and relaxed throughout the day.
Conclusion
A desert safari with kids in Dubai we couldn’t have done it anytime, anywhere else. It couldn’t have been more memorable, more fun, or more full of adventure. But if you’re prepared, you can ensure your family makes the most of it, whether you’re embarking on camel rides or watching cultural performances. You want to keep safety in mind, pack your bag wisely, and opt for a tour that’s best for your kids’ ages and interests.
Whether it’s your child’s first desert trip, or you already do it every year, the memories you’ll create together will be with you for life. So, you’ll be all set to ride the magic carpet desert style with your little ones and enjoy a unique family experience in the heart of Dubai.
FAQs:
The majority of tour operators advise an age threshold of at least 3–5 years old, especially when it comes to, say, dune bashing. Babies are welcome, but with few activities for them.
Rough dune bashing is probably inadvisable for young children, particularly those under 6. Opt for tours that provide a gentle dune bashing session, or skip it altogether for a bit more comfort.
Strollers are not great in the sand, but you can take a baby carrier, or you might want to ask the operator if they have options for younger children.
Car seats are available through some tour companies, by prior request. Always check beforehand or bring your own for extra safety.
Some of the safest and delightful activities for young kids are the camel rides, cultural shows, henna painting, and the light sightseeing at the desert camp.