Dubai is famous for its luxurious skyscrapers, beaches, and world-class attractions—but one experience that truly captures the spirit of Arabian culture is the desert safari. Many people believe that every desert safari in Dubai includes high-speed off-road driving, also known as dune bashing Dubai. But what if you don’t like rough rides? What if you’re traveling with kids, elderly family members, or someone with health restrictions?
The good news is—you can absolutely enjoy a desert safari without dune bashing.
More and more travelers today are searching for peaceful and safe desert trips, and Dubai offers many safari options that skip dune bashing entirely while still keeping the desert adventure alive. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about desert safari packages designed specifically without dune bashing, including activities, prices, itinerary, dinner options, cultural experiences, and booking tips.
Who Should Choose a Desert Safari Without Dune Bashing?
Some travelers prefer a smoother and safer desert experience. If you fall in any of the categories below, this safari is perfect for you:
✅ Families with small children or infants
✅ Senior citizens and elderly travelers
✅ Pregnant women
✅ People with back, neck, or heart problems
✅ Travelers who get motion sickness
✅ People who prefer sightseeing over adventure
✅ Tourists seeking a peaceful desert experience
✅ Anyone afraid of high-speed dune driving
Instead of skipping the desert safari completely, you can choose a comfortable alternative made just for you.
What to Expect on a No-Dune-Bashing Desert Safari?
Even if dune bashing isn’t included, the experience is still full of exciting Arabian activities and entertainment. Here’s what a typical desert safari without dune bashing includes:
| Activity | Included |
|---|---|
| Hotel pick-up & drop-off | ✅ Yes |
| Scenic desert drive | ✅ Yes |
| Camel riding | ✅ Yes |
| Sandboarding (optional) | ✅ Yes |
| Sunset photography | ✅ Yes |
| Arabic coffee & dates | ✅ Yes |
| Henna art | ✅ Yes |
| Traditional desert camp experience | ✅ Yes |
| Cultural performances | ✅ Yes |
| BBQ dinner desert safari Dubai buffet | ✅ Included |
| Shisha (optional) | ✅ Yes |
| Falcon photo opportunity | ✅ Yes |
The only difference? No desert safari dune bashing—your vehicle drives safely and comfortably on flatter desert tracks instead of doing fast climbs over dunes.
Why Choose a Gentle Desert Safari?
Here are the biggest advantages of avoiding dune bashing:
-
Safe for all ages and health conditions
-
Comfortable journey without bumps or motion sickness
-
More time at the desert camp instead of high-speed driving
-
Better for people who want a slow-paced cultural experience
-
Perfect for photography and nature lovers
Unlike regular safari tours that focus on speed and thrills, this version highlights the beauty, culture, and peace of the Arabian desert.
Types of Desert Safaris Available Without Dune Bashing
✅ Evening Desert Safari (Most Popular)
This option includes transport, camel rides, soft desert driving, and ends with dinner and live entertainment. It’s the most booked evening desert safari option and ideal for families and couples.
✅ Morning Desert Safari (Quiet & Scenic)
If you’re not free in the evening or want to avoid crowds, the Morning Desert Safari is a great alternative. No dune bashing is required—you can enjoy camels, sandboarding, and beautiful sunrise views.
✅ Private Desert Safari
If you want privacy or are traveling with elderly family members, a private vehicle tour is best. You can customize the trip however you want—and request no dune bashing with ease.
✅ Family Friendly Desert Safari Dubai
Some safari companies now offer packages for families who want a smooth, safe desert outing. These family friendly desert safari Dubai packages are designed especially for kids and elders.
Sample Itinerary – Desert Safari Without Dune Bashing
Here’s what your 6-hour experience will look like:
🕒 3:00–3:30 PM: Pickup
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in a comfortable 4×4 or private vehicle. Let them know in advance you want a safari without dune bashing.
🕒 4:30 PM: Arrive at Desert Location
You’ll enjoy a gentle drive into the desert, perfect for sightseeing and photos.
🕒 5:00 PM: Camel Ride and Sandboarding
Ride a camel just like Bedouins once did. If you like, try sandboarding on small dunes—it’s fun and safe.
🕒 5:30 PM: Sunset Photography
Watch an unforgettable sunset as the sky turns golden and the desert dunes glow.
🕒 6:00 PM: Arrival at Desert Camp
You will be welcomed with Arabic tea, coffee (called Gahwa), and fresh dates.
🕒 6:30 PM: Cultural Activities Begin
-
Try henna tattoo art
-
Take photos in traditional costumes
-
Sit by the fire
-
Optional shisha smoking
🕒 7:00 PM: Live Entertainment
Enjoy amazing performances like:
-
Belly dancing
-
Tanoura spinning dance
-
Fire show
-
LED light show (on some tours)
🕒 7:30 PM: BBQ Dinner Buffet
The highlight of the bbq dinner desert safari Dubai experience. Enjoy unlimited dinner under the stars.
What’s on the BBQ Menu?
| Starters | Main Courses | BBQ Grill | Desserts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hummus, Fresh Salad, Falafel | Arabic rice, Pasta, Veg curry | Chicken tikka, Lamb kebab, Fish BBQ | Fresh Fruits, Kunafa, Gulab Jamun |
Drinks include tea, coffee, juice, and soft drinks. Vegetarian options are always available.
Is It Worth Skipping Dune Bashing?
Absolutely. Many people assume dune bashing is the highlight of a desert safari—but that’s just one part of it. The truth is, the Arabian hospitality, culture, food, and views are what make the experience unforgettable.
If you don’t like fast rides or feel unsafe, you shouldn’t have to miss out. The desert has plenty more to offer beyond dune driving.
Desert Safari Without Dune Bashing Vs Regular Desert Safari
| Feature | Without Dune Bashing | Regular Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort Level | ✅ Very Comfortable | ❌ Rough ride |
| Safe for all ages | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not always |
| Scenic Driving | ✅ Relaxed | ✅ Yes |
| Live Entertainment | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| BBQ Dinner | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Thrill Level | Low | High |
Pricing Guide
| Package Type | Price (Per Person) |
|---|---|
| Shared Safari (No dune bashing) | $25 – $35 |
| VIP Desert Safari | $45 – $65 |
| Private Desert Safari | $150 – $300 |
| Premium with Camel Trekking | $60 – $90 |
Prices vary based on pick-up location, menu options, and add-ons.
What to Wear and Bring
| Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Clothing | Light & breathable |
| Shoes | Sports shoes/sandals |
| Jacket (Winter) | Yes |
| Sunglasses | Recommended |
| Camera | Required for sunset shots |
| Water bottle | Stay hydrated |
Safety Tips
✅ Inform your tour guide that you want no dune bashing
✅ Wear comfortable clothing
✅ Avoid heavy meals before the trip
✅ Carry snacks for kids
✅ Choose a licensed tour operator
✅ Pregnant women and elderly should avoid dune bashing tours and pick this option instead
Final Thoughts – A Peaceful Way to Experience Dubai’s Desert
A desert safari without dune bashing proves that thrill isn’t everything. You don’t need extreme adventure to enjoy Dubai’s golden dunes—you can connect with nature, enjoy Arabian culture, and share a memorable evening with your loved ones.
If you’re looking for comfort, beauty, and tradition—this is the perfect desert experience for you.
