May’s balmy nights and crisp dawns make it an ideal month to explore the UAE’s majestic dunes. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly quad-biking tour, dune bashing or a peaceful camel ride during the sunset, the desert promises adventure and tranquillity in equal measure. Don’t miss these top-rated desert experiences before summer peaks this year. Here's a list of tour operators that offer budget-friendly desert experiences in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Desert Safari Dubai Tours
Experience the golden dunes like never before with Desert Safari Dubai Tours, where cultural immersion meets adrenaline-packed fun. What sets them apart is the duration and completeness of the package with 30 to 40 minutes of intense dune bashing in a Land Cruiser, followed by sandboarding, camel rides, a full buffet dinner and three types of live entertainment. Starting from just Dhs 89 per person, this offers an experience that’s rich in value. www.desertsafaridrive.com
Emirates Desert Tour, Abu Dhabi
For an action-packed day in the desert, Emirates Desert Tour delivers a full Abu Dhabi desert safari experience. This includes sand skiing, camel trekking, quad biking, and camel and horse riding, all packed into one experience. The sand-skiing down towering dunes and the serene camel rides during sunset is a rare treat and a standout feature. Whether you're gliding down dunes or enjoying a sunset camel trek, this tour captures the spirit of the Abu Dhabi desert in full. Packages start from Dhs 149. www.emiratesdeserttour.com
Rayna Tours, Dubai
With one of the most diverse desert activity menus, Rayna Tours is a top choice for custom adventures. Whether you're after a luxury overnight safari with stargazing and gourmet dining or an action-packed morning tour with quad biking and sandboarding, they’ve got it all covered. Their standout? A Hatta Mountain safari and Red Dune safari, taking you to the mysteriously appealing red sands of Al Lahbab region. With options to ride in a Land Cruiser or Hummer for your dune bash, this is definitely not your average ride, and yet, the packages are easy on the pocket. Prices start from Dhs 150 per person. www.raynatours.com
Arabian Adventures, Dubai
This one’s for those looking to balance adventure with elegance. Arabian Adventures brings an elevated safari experience inside the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, one of the few operators with such exclusive access. Think falconry displays, wildlife spotting, and a gourmet Emirati dinner under the stars. Special dining experiences in the desert with beverages are also available, making it ideal for nature lovers and those who prefer a refined pace. Packages start from Dhs 385 per person. www.arabian-adventures.com
Go Dubai Desert Safari
Best for variety seekers, Go Dubai Desert Safari is your go-to if you want the freedom to mix and match activities for your desert adventure. With combo packages that let you pair quad biking, dune buggy rides, or traditional evening shows, this operator gives you the flexibility to customise your adventure. An additional bonus is that their live entertainment lineup is one of the most vibrant experiences to behold. Prices start from Dhs 109. www.desertsafaridubai.com
Dune Buggy Hub, Dubai
Serious about your wheels? Dune Buggy Hub is made for motor-sport enthusiasts, who want to unleash their adventurous spirit in the desert. Choose from powerful dune buggies or beginner-friendly quad bikes in a safe, enclosed area, great for first-timers. Their advanced adventure options in the open desert is a must for seasoned riders. With strong focus on safety and a variety of options for dinner and entertainment, this is a go-to for those craving speed and safety. Prices start from Dhs 150. www.dunebuggyhub.com
Royal Desert Adventure, Dubai
Looking for a private, tailor-made desert escape? Royal Desert Adventure specialises in fully customisable safaris, including private sunrise tours and afternoon dune bashing. Perfect for couples, families, or groups wanting a more exclusive feel. Whether you’re riding solo on a buggy or catching first light on a camel, this one lets you set the tone. Packages start from Dhs 130. www.royaldesertadventure.com
Dubai Desert Experiences
If you want the best of desert fun without splurging, Dubai Desert Experiences has nailed the formula. Their budget evening safari offers high-octane dune bashing, camel rides and live entertainment, but what stands out is the relaxed camp atmosphere. You’ll sip Arabic coffee and watch the sunset before being immersed in traditional performances, making it ideal for culture-curious travellers. Prices start from Dhs 99, making it an ideal choice for an unforgettable desert experience. www.dubaidesertexperiences.com
Abu Dhabi Desert Safaris
For those eager to explore Abu Dhabi’s majestic dunes without spending big, Abu Dhabi Desert Safaris delivers unbeatable value with its low-cost packages. From driving through the dunes and enjoying camel rides to camp-based cultural experiences and traditional refreshments, their desert adventure package is a budget-friendly way to experience the desert’s magic. You can also enjoy the night with a romantic dune dinner, after witnessing the desert sunsets. Prices start from just Dhs 69 per person for the direct desert camp safari, making it an accessible and memorable escape into the sands. www.abudhabideserttour.com