The deserts of the UAE are full of beauty, adventure, and unforgettable memories. While many travelers visit Dubai for its modern attractions, there’s another side of the UAE that offers peace, nature, and thrilling desert experiences — and that is found in Sharjah.

If you are planning your first desert safari, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from types of tours, what’s included in the packages, the best times to go, and useful tips to enjoy the journey comfortably.

What Makes a Desert Safari Special?

A desert safari is not just a drive in the sand. It’s a full package of culture, excitement, nature, and relaxation. You get to witness the endless dunes, enjoy high-speed rides over sand hills, and connect with Arabian culture.

Whether you love photography, adventure, or just peaceful landscapes, this trip offers something for everyone.

Types of Desert Safari Experiences in Sharjah

Sharjah offers a variety of safari types. Depending on your time and interest, you can pick from the following:

1. Morning Desert Safari

Perfect for early risers and adventure lovers who want to avoid the hot afternoon sun. These tours usually start around 8 AM and finish by noon. You can enjoy dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides before the heat rises.

Best for:

  • Adventure lovers

  • Photographers (morning light is great)

  • Families with kids

2. Evening Desert Safari

This is the most popular choice for visitors. It starts in the afternoon and continues until after sunset. You get to see the magical sunset, experience a range of activities, and enjoy a full dinner with entertainment at the desert camp.

Includes:

  • Sunset photography

  • Cultural shows

  • Henna painting

  • Traditional dinner

  • Shisha (on request)

Ideal for:

  • Couples and families

  • People interested in Arabic culture

  • Tourists looking for a complete desert experience

3. Overnight Safari

For those who want a complete desert experience, overnight safaris offer the chance to sleep under the stars. After the evening activities and dinner, guests stay overnight in the desert camp.

You’ll get:

  • Private tents

  • Blankets and sleeping bags

  • Bonfire (in winter)

  • Morning breakfast

4. Private Safari Tours

If you want a more personal experience, private tours are available. You can customize your timings, activities, and even food. It’s best for honeymooners, VIP guests, or families who want privacy.

What’s Included in a Typical Safari Package?

Different travel companies offer different packages. But most include the following:

Basic Inclusions:

  • Pick and drop in a 4×4 vehicle

  • Experienced safari guide

  • Dune bashing session (20–30 minutes)

  • Camel rides

  • Welcome drinks and snacks

  • Access to camp facilities

  • Arabic costume photo session

Entertainment:

  • Live music

  • Belly dance

  • Tanoura dance

  • Fire shows (in some camps)

Food:

  • Unlimited soft drinks

  • Mineral water, tea, coffee

  • BBQ buffet (veg and non-veg options)

  • Traditional Arabic sweets

Optional Activities (Paid Extra)

Some activities may not be included in the basic package. You can pay extra for:

  • Quad biking

  • Horse riding

  • Falcon photo sessions

  • VIP seating in the camp

  • Long camel rides

  • Sandboarding (long sessions)

Always confirm with your tour provider what’s included and what’s not.

Best Time to Go on a Desert Safari

The desert gets extremely hot during the summer. So the best time to enjoy your trip is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and more enjoyable.

Seasons Breakdown:

  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Cool and perfect for all-day tours

  • Spring (Mar–Apr): Slightly warm but still good

  • Summer (May–Sep): Avoid afternoon tours; try early morning or skip the season

  • Autumn (Oct–Nov): Best season to enjoy all desert experiences

What to Wear and Pack

Your comfort depends on how well you dress and what you carry.

Dress Tips:

  • Wear light and loose cotton clothes

  • Sunglasses and hats are a must

  • Avoid sandals during dune bashing (sand gets inside)

  • For evening tours, carry a light jacket (especially in winter)

Things to Bring:

  • Power bank for your phone

  • Sunscreen (desert sun is harsh)

  • Wet wipes or tissues

  • Camera or smartphone for photos

  • Small backpack to carry personal items

Is Desert Safari Safe?

Yes, the desert safari is very safe, especially when booked through a trusted and licensed tour operator. The drivers are trained, the vehicles are equipped for sand driving, and camps follow safety standards.

However, here are a few tips:

  • Pregnant women should avoid dune bashing

  • People with heart or back problems should inform the operator in advance

  • Children can join, but some activities may not be suitable for very young kids

How to Choose the Right Safari Package

Not all packages are the same. When booking, keep the following points in mind:

Checklist:

  • Read online reviews (Google, TripAdvisor)

  • Check pickup timing and location

  • Confirm if food and shows are included

  • Ask about any hidden charges

  • Compare 2–3 companies before booking

If you’re booking online, look for combo deals or discount codes. You might find offers that include extra activities or VIP seating at no additional cost.

Photography Tips in the Desert

If you’re a photography lover, you’ll find countless opportunities in the desert.

Tips for Best Shots:

  • Use golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for perfect lighting

  • Wear colors that contrast with the sand (blue, red, white)

  • Try wide-angle shots for vast dunes

  • Capture action during dune bashing and camel rides

  • Use landscape mode for wide views

Even a smartphone can take amazing photos if you use good lighting and composition.

Cultural Experience in the Camps

One of the best parts of the safari is spending time at the camp. It’s designed to reflect traditional Bedouin life and Emirati culture.

Activities in Camp:

  • Arabic coffee and dates

  • Henna design for hands

  • Traditional music and dance

  • Trying on local outfits

  • Shisha smoking (optional)

You’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time — but with modern comfort.

Environmental Care in the Desert

Deserts are beautiful but delicate. Help protect them by:

  • Not littering

  • Avoiding off-track driving (unless guided)

  • Not disturbing animals or plants

  • Following camp rules

Let’s all play a part in keeping nature clean and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

A desert safari in Sharjah is a unique blend of thrill and tradition. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, every trip feels different.

The quiet of the dunes, the sound of the wind, and the excitement of the rides all come together to make this experience unforgettable. With the right planning, you can enjoy the beauty, culture, and adventure without any stress.

If you’re visiting the UAE, don’t miss this incredible opportunity. Choose your tour, pack your bag, and get ready to make memories that will stay with you forever.

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