Top Things to Know Before Taking Your Family on a Dubai Desert Safari

Top Things to Know Before Taking Your Family on a Dubai Desert Safari

Traveling with children always takes extra planning, especially when your destination is hot, sandy, and outdoors.

Sound familiar?

A desert tour near Dubai might sound intense at first, but with the right approach, it can be one of the most memorable parts of your trip.

This guide walks you through exactly what to expect and how to make it work for your family — even if you’ve never done something like this before.

From tour choices to sunscreen tips and from camel rides to clean restrooms, we’ll cover the little details that make a big difference.

Read on for things you need to know before taking your family on a Dubai desert safari.

Understanding What a Desert Safari Includes

If you’re new to the idea, here’s the simple version: this is not just a bumpy car ride in the sand. A typical desert tour includes a few key elements — usually a hotel pick-up, a ride into the desert in a 4×4, and a mix of activities once you arrive at the camp.

Expect options like dune drives, short camel rides, cultural performances, and open-air dinners.

Some offer sandboarding, while others keep it calmer. Morning tours are cooler but shorter. Evening safaris include dinner and shows. You don’t need to do it all — just pick what suits your group.

Tip: Not all tours are the same. Read the full itinerary before booking. Some give you options to skip certain activities.

How to Choose the Right Safari for Your Family

Traveling with kids means thinking beyond the basic tour list. Will they get tired in the heat? Is the ride too rough? Can they eat the food?

Some safaris are high-energy; others are slower and more flexible. The trick is choosing one that feels like it was built for your kind of group.

That’s why, before booking a Desert Safari Dubai tour, take a moment to consider the structure. Look for tours that have a well-paced plan, family-style seating at dinner, safe transportation, and expert guides.

These things aren’t just nice extras — they can completely transform how your day goes.

Tip: Expect dune rides, camel walks, sandboarding, and a buffet dinner — all packed into one outing. Skim the itinerary to see where you can pause or take it slow with the kids.

Getting Kids Ready for the Experience

Most kids love open spaces, but the desert is different. It’s hot, there’s wind, and the sand gets everywhere.

The more they know ahead of time, the better they’ll handle it. You don’t need a big prep talk. A quick chat the night before can do wonders.

Explain what a camel is like to ride. Show them photos of dune buggies. If your child struggles with new environments, bring familiar items, such as a favorite snack or small toy.

Older kids can be “trip photographers” or keep a sketch diary. Little roles make them feel part of it.

Example: Tell your child the desert is like a giant beach — but with no water. Just endless space to explore. That’s all they need to get curious.

What to Pack for a Family Desert Safari

Here’s a rule of thumb: pack light, but pack smart. Sun hats, closed shoes, light cotton clothes, and refillable water bottles are your basics.

Add a small pack with snacks, sunscreen, tissues, and a phone charger. That’s usually enough.

If you’ve got toddlers, think about wipes, a mini fan, and maybe a light blanket. You won’t need heavy jackets, but it can get breezy after sunset.

And yes, a few plastic bags for trash or sandy clothes? Always a win.

Tip: Avoid black clothes — they absorb heat. Go with whites, light blues, or beige.

On-Site Facilities and Family Comfort

Here’s where many parents get nervous — and it’s fair. You’re heading into the desert. Is there even a bathroom?

Actually, most safari camps are well-prepared. They’ve got shaded seating, restrooms, and eating areas.

Food is usually served buffet-style, with options for different tastes. While the setup is traditional, it’s surprisingly comfortable for families.

Strollers may not roll smoothly in the sand, but many camps have walkways or help available.

If you’re traveling with older family members, ask about seating types — some offer chairs instead of floor cushions.

Example: Some camps even have kids’ play zones or henna artists to keep little ones busy before dinner.

Cultural Etiquette and Teaching Respect

One of the best parts of this experience is the exposure to local customs. Your kids will watch folk dancing, try on traditional clothes, or maybe even speak a few words of Arabic.

It’s fun but also a chance to teach awareness.

Dress modestly (longer shorts or light sleeves work well). Be mindful during performances. And always ask before taking photos of local staff or animals.

This isn’t just about rules — it’s about showing your kids how to appreciate different cultures.

Tip: Use this trip as a way to introduce respect for space and traditions. Even a quick chat in the car can set the tone.

Final Tips for a Memorable Experience

Want to make the day even better? Pack one small surprise — maybe a toy camera, a special snack, or a printed map of the desert.

Little moments make great memories.

Give yourself time. Rushing leads to stress. Get some rest the night before. Let the kids nap in the car. Capture good travel photos, but don’t force them.

Encourage them to enjoy the experience first, then share it however they like. And once you’re back at the hotel?

Talk about the trip — the funny parts, the animals, the sand in your shoes. That’s the stuff they’ll remember.

Tip: Have your child pick one “highlight of the day” before bed. You’ll be surprised what they remember most.

TL;DR

A day in the desert may not sound like the easiest activity for families, but it can be one of the most rewarding.

All it takes is the right choice, the right mindset, and a bit of planning.

If you’re traveling to Dubai with children, this kind of tour isn’t just a photo op. It’s a full experience: learning, laughing, and exploring somewhere completely new together.

Do you have any tips to add before taking your family on a Dubai desert safari?

Let me know, til then—cheers m’deres!

PIN FOR LATER: