A desert safari is one of the best experiences to enjoy with your family while visiting the UAE. Whether you live here or are on vacation, spending time in the desert together creates lasting memories. In 2025, many tour companies have introduced new and improved desert safari packages designed especially for families.

From soft adventure rides to cultural shows and tasty dinners, these packages are perfect for people of all ages. Whether you choose a Dubai desert safari or a Desert safari Sharjah, you’ll find options that suit your family’s needs.

In this guide, we’ll help you understand the best family-friendly desert safari packages, what’s included, and how to choose the right one.

 

 

Why Choose a Desert Safari for the Family?

A desert safari offers something for everyone. Parents enjoy the peaceful views and cultural performances, while kids love camel rides, dune adventures, and trying out sandboarding.

Here’s why families love desert safaris:

  • Safe, guided activities for all age groups

  • Plenty of photo opportunities

  • Delicious food options

  • Live shows and cultural learning

  • Options for short or long trips

Whether it’s a morning desert safari or an evening event, your whole family will stay entertained.

 

 

Top Family-Friendly Safari Options in 2025

There are many choices for a family desert trip. Here are some of the best options in 2025 that are suitable for kids and adults alike.

 

 

1. Morning Desert Safari for Families

The morning desert safari is a great choice for families with small children or elderly members. The weather is cooler, and the experience is shorter and more focused on adventure.

Inclusions:

  • Pick-up and drop-off (optional)

  • Light dune bashing (suitable for kids)

  • Camel ride and sandboarding

  • Soft drinks and snacks

Best For:

  • Families with babies or young kids

  • Those who want to avoid late evenings

  • Tourists with busy schedules

This option is available in both desert safari Dubai and Desert safari Sharjah areas.

 

 

2. Evening Desert Safari with Kids’ Activities

This is the most popular package for families and gives you the full desert experience.

What’s Included:

  • Comfortable 4x4 pick-up and drop-off

  • 20–30 minutes of dune bashing (can be skipped on request)

  • Camel riding and sandboarding

  • Henna painting and Arabic costume photos

  • BBQ dinner with kids’ meal options

  • Live shows: fire show, belly dance, and Tanoura

  • Kids play area in many camps

Ideal For:

  • Families with kids aged 5 and above

  • Tourists wanting a full cultural experience

  • People who enjoy evening entertainment

This kind of Dubai desert safari or Desert safari Sharjah tour is offered by most top-rated companies.

 

 

3. Private Desert Safari for Families

If you want more comfort and flexibility, a private safari is an excellent choice.

Benefits:

  • Private car just for your family

  • Flexible pick-up timing

  • Custom dune bashing experience (can be reduced or skipped)

  • VIP seating at the desert camp

  • Easier to manage young kids or elderly family members

Although this costs more than group tours, it’s ideal for larger families or those who want privacy and relaxation.

 

 

4. Overnight Family Desert Safari

Want to give your children a camping experience in the desert? An overnight safari is an exciting option.

Inclusions:

  • All evening safari activities

  • Overnight stay in tents

  • Breakfast next morning

  • Bonfire and stargazing

  • Secure and clean sleeping arrangements

Children above 6 usually enjoy this the most. Make sure to pack warm clothes for winter nights.

 

 

5. Desert Safari Self Drive for Families

If you have your own car or a rental, the Desert safari self drive option is both affordable and flexible.

Why It Works for Families:

  • Save money on transport

  • Travel at your own pace

  • Join all the camp activities after arriving

Just drive to the meeting point and enjoy the full desert safari with your family. Many residents in Sharjah and Dubai prefer this option.

 

 

How to Choose the Right Package for Your Family

Here’s what to consider before booking a safari:

1. Age of Children

  • For toddlers: Choose soft dune rides or skip them

  • For older kids: Sandboarding and camel rides are fun

2. Time of Day

  • Morning desert safari is shorter and cooler

  • Evening safari includes dinner and shows

3. Budget

  • Self-drive and shared tours are affordable

  • Private and overnight safaris cost more but offer better comfort

4. Location

  • Desert safari Dubai offers more luxury and variety

  • Desert safari Sharjah is quieter and more budget-friendly

 

 

What’s Included in Family Desert Safari Packages?

Though each tour may be slightly different, most desert safari packages for families include:

  • Hotel or meeting point pick-up (for non-self drive)

  • Desert drive and dune bashing

  • Camel riding, sandboarding

  • Kids play zones (in some camps)

  • Dinner with vegetarian/non-vegetarian options

  • Cultural shows and music

  • Henna painting and traditional wear photography

Always confirm with the tour provider what’s included, especially for children.

 

 

Safety Tips for Families

To ensure a safe and enjoyable safari:

  • Choose tour companies with good reviews and proper licenses

  • Bring sun protection (hats, sunscreen)

  • Keep snacks and water for kids

  • Carry light jackets for evenings

  • Inform the guide if you want to skip dune bashing

Most companies will adjust activities based on your comfort.

 

 

Best Family Safari Companies in 2025

While many companies offer similar services, here are a few known for family-friendly options:

  • OceanAir Travels – Known for VIP and child-friendly setups

  • Arabian Nights Tours – Offers good desert safari Dubai experiences

  • Adventure Planet – Great value and safe service

  • Sharjah Desert Safari – Trusted for Desert safari Sharjah options

Book through trusted websites or check reviews on Google and TripAdvisor.

 

 

Final Thoughts

In 2025, going on a desert safari with your family is easier and more enjoyable than ever. Whether you're looking for a quick morning desert safari, a full evening adventure, or a flexible Desert safari self drive trip, there’s a package perfect for your family.

Just choose based on your time, budget, and children’s needs. The magical sand dunes, delicious food, and fun shows will make it a day your whole family will remember forever.