Dubai’s desert safaris are perfect for family vacations that are going to be remembered. Desert safaris offer adventure, culture, nature, and a mix of all three experiences. While many consider desert safaris to take place with an emphasis mostly on adrenaline, we see there is a possible array of family & friends activities that can align with children/ families; that would be the highlight of their trip.

Traveling with toddlers or teens, there’s something magical about being in golden dunes, meeting camels, watching falcon fly, or experiencing live cultural performances under the stars. Let’s take a look at the unique desert safari experiences, perfect for families with kids that guarantee fun, safety and cherished memories.

1. Morning Desert Safari

If you’re traveling with younger children, the Morning Desert Safari is a great way to explore the desert without the intense heat or long hours. These safaris usually start early in the morning and wrap up before noon ideal for keeping kids cool and energized.

Activities for families:

• Short and gentle dune drives
• Sandboarding on smaller dunes
• Camel rides with photo opportunities
• Optional wildlife spotting (like Arabian oryx and gazelles)

Morning safaris are quieter and more relaxed, allowing children to soak in the desert’s natural beauty without the rush.

2. Private Family Desert Safari

Want more control over the pace and activities? A Private Desert Safari is the way to go. These tailor made tours are ideal for families who prefer a more personalized experience. Tour operators often provide kid friendly car seats, customized meal options, and flexible schedules.

Family Benefits:

• Adjustable itinerary
• No crowds or waiting
• Individual guide attention
• Ability to forgo more extreme activities, such as dune bashing

Private safaris are especially beneficial for families with special needs children or babies, who need greater comfort and care.

3. Camel Riding

The thought of riding on a camel, the “Ship of the Desert” and Dubai’s most recognized animal usually appeals to kids. Camels have a calm and delicate gait over the sand dunes, making for a slow and safe ride: the slowest ride in the desert allowing a family to relax and absorb the experience in an amusing manner.

Tips for camel riding with kids:

• Opt for shorter rides (10–15 minutes)
• Make sure your child is securely seated
• Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and water

Most desert safaris include a short camel ride, but you can also book dedicated camel trekking tours for a more in depth experience.

4. Desert Camp Activities

Once you arrive at the traditional desert camp, the fun continues. Desert safari camps are packed with entertainment and cultural activities the whole family can be involved in.

Here are some great family & friends desert camp activities:

• Henna painting
• Traditional dress-up photo opportunities
• Falcon opportunities to hold and photos
• Face painting and sand art stations
• Toddler zones with little activities or stations

Evening safaris almost always include some type of live entertainment including fire shows, tanoura dancing, and belly dancing. Some of these experiences, especially the shows might be a little loud for very little kiddos but the older kids would dig it all.

5. Dune Bashing

For family & friends with older children (usually aged 8 and above), dune bashing is a thrilling experience. It involves riding in a 4×4 across the sand dunes at varying speeds almost like a rollercoaster on sand.

Make safety a priority:

• Be sure to look for age and height requirements
• Check to make sure seatbelts are on
• Don’t do it if your child is prone to motion sickness

Most tour operators will have lower-grade dune bashing options available for families with children who want to experience the excitement of dune bashing, but don’t want to experience it to the fullest extreme.

6. Sunset Photography

There is nothing quite like the experience of a desert sunset especially with the family friendly. Watching the sun dip below the dunes is a peaceful moment of bonding time everyone can appreciate, even the kids.

Pro tips:

• Bring a camera or phone with decent low light capabilities.
• Let the kids shoot a few photos. They’ll feel involved.
• Capture your family in candid moments and not just posed photos.

Some safari packages employ a professional photographer as part of their service, so you will leave with some beautiful memories.

7. Traditional Bedouin Dinner

Dinner in the desert is more than dinner, it’s an experience. Families can enjoy a variety of authentic Arabic dishes including grilled meats, fresh salads, and traditional Arabic desserts like luqaimat (Arabic donuts).

For picky eaters:

• Many camps offer kids friendly options like pasta, fries, and fruit
• Always inform the tour provider of any dietary restrictions in advance

Eating together under the stars, surrounded by lanterns and traditional music, creates a memorable and bonding family experience.

8. Overnight Desert Safari

For families with older kids or teens, an Overnight Desert Safari is the ultimate adventure. Sleep in a traditional Bedouin style tent, gaze at the stars, and wake up to a desert sunrise.

Included experiences:

• Bonfire gatherings
• Stargazing with zero light pollution
• Early morning camel ride
• Desert breakfast

Just ensure your kids are comfortable with the idea of sleeping outdoors, and pack some extra layers as desert nights can get chilly even in warmer months.

9. Wildlife & Nature Walks

Some eco savvy desert safari companies will guide wildlife spotting and nature walks as part of their tours, which are especially a hit with kids who love animals and nature.

What you might see:

• Arabian oryx
• Desert foxes
• Falcons and owls
• Distinct desert plants

Many of these safaris include a conservation and education focus which can be a lot fun and educational for kids.

Final Suggestions for a Happy Family Desert Safari:

• Wear light, breathable clothing and closed-toe shoes.
• Bring lots of sunblock, hats, and sunglasses.
• Pack snacks and water for young children.
• Consider a small first-aid kit and some wet wipes.
• Use licensed, family & friends operators.

Conclusion:

Dubai’s desert safaris are not just for the daredevils. They are for everyone; families with children of all ages included.  With some great planning, desert safaris offer a blend of fun, culture, and nature and an opportunity for families to bond together.

Whether for your child’s camel ride for the first time, or your teenager’s first sunset photo session, desert safaris will create family lasting memories.