An evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi is one of the most thrilling and unforgettable experiences you can have in the UAE. Offering a blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, it is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. In this comprehensive blog, we will delve deep into what is included in an evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi and answer some frequently asked questions to help you plan your perfect desert adventure.
What is an Evening Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi?
An evening desert safari is a guided tour that takes you deep into the Arabian desert to experience its unique landscapes, traditional culture, and exciting activities. Unlike the morning or daytime safaris, the evening safari is designed to offer a spectacular sunset experience followed by an immersive desert camp experience under the starry skies.
The evening desert safari is typically about 5 to 7 hours long, depending on the package, and is perfect for those who want to combine excitement with relaxation. The safari involves a thrilling ride across the desert dunes, a chance to enjoy local food and entertainment, and opportunities to try activities like camel rides, sandboarding, and henna painting.
What is Included in an Evening Desert Safari?
- Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
Most evening desert safari packages include convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off services. You will be picked up from your hotel in Abu Dhabi in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle, driven to the desert location, and later dropped off back at your hotel. This ensures that you can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about transportation. - Dune Bashing
One of the highlights of an evening desert safari is the adrenaline-pumping dune bashing experience. Dune bashing is a thrilling ride in a 4×4 vehicle over the massive sand dunes of the desert. Skilled drivers maneuver the vehicle through the dunes, providing an exhilarating experience as you slide up and down the sandy slopes. The ride is both exciting and safe, ensuring an unforgettable adventure. - Sunset Viewing
After the adrenaline rush of dune bashing, the tour typically heads to a scenic spot where you can enjoy a spectacular desert sunset. The sight of the sun setting over the endless dunes, with the sky painted in shades of orange and red, is a truly mesmerizing experience. This is an ideal time for photographs and to take in the natural beauty of the desert. - Camel Ride
After the sunset, you will get a chance to experience a traditional mode of desert transportation—riding a camel. Camels, known as the “ships of the desert,” are an integral part of Arabian culture. The gentle swaying of the camel as it walks through the dunes is a serene and calming experience, allowing you to soak in the desert’s tranquility. You can enjoy a short camel ride, providing a great opportunity for photos and memories. - Sandboarding
For those seeking more adventure, sandboarding is another exciting activity included in most evening desert safari packages. You’ll be provided with a board, and you can slide down the soft, golden dunes, much like snowboarding on snow. It’s a thrilling and fun experience, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor sports. - Traditional Bedouin Camp Experience
After the activities, you will be taken to a traditional Bedouin-style camp where you can unwind and enjoy an authentic Arabian experience. The camp is usually equipped with comfortable seating, low tables, and cushions where guests can relax under the stars.
Cultural Experiences at the Camp
At the camp, you can enjoy various traditional activities like:- Henna Painting: You can try out beautiful, intricate henna designs on your hands or feet, which are a part of traditional Arabic culture.
- Shisha Smoking: If you wish, you can experience smoking flavored tobacco from a traditional water pipe known as shisha or hookah.
- Arabian Coffee and Dates: You will be served traditional Arabic coffee (Gahwa) along with dates, a welcoming gesture and a symbol of hospitality in Emirati culture.
- Barbecue Dinner and Live Entertainment
The evening culminates with a delicious barbecue dinner, which includes a variety of dishes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. Traditional Arabic dishes like grilled meats, kebabs, hummus, salads, and flatbreads are served, offering a full-course Arabian meal. There are also sweet treats like baklava and fresh fruits to satisfy your cravings.
Live Entertainment
As you enjoy your meal, you will be entertained with traditional performances. These can include:- Tanoura Dance: A mesmerizing folk dance where performers twirl in colorful costumes to the rhythm of Arabic music.
- Belly Dancing: A captivating performance that showcases the art of belly dancing, a staple of Arabian culture.
- Fire Show: Some safaris may include a fire show with skilled performers handling fire torches, adding an extra dose of excitement to the evening.
- Star Gazing
After the entertainment and dinner, you can lie back and enjoy the clear desert sky. With little light pollution in the desert, the stars appear brighter than ever. Star gazing is a peaceful and magical way to end the safari.
What Should You Wear on an Evening Desert Safari?
When preparing for your evening desert safari, it’s important to dress comfortably for both the adventure and the desert climate. The following are some clothing suggestions:
- Loose, Comfortable Clothing: Loose-fitting clothes such as long pants, a t-shirt, and light layers are ideal. The desert can be hot during the day and cooler in the evening, so dressing in layers will allow you to adjust as needed.
- Closed-toe Shoes: Comfortable shoes are essential for dune bashing and walking around the desert. Avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The sun can be quite strong, even in the evening, so make sure to wear sunglasses and sunscreen to protect your skin and eyes.
- Headwear: A light scarf, hat, or turban can help protect your head from the sun and wind.
FAQ: Evening Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi
- How long does the evening desert safari last?
The evening desert safari typically lasts between 5 to 7 hours, including the pick-up and drop-off times, with the desert activities and dinner experience in between. - Is the dune bashing safe?
Yes, dune bashing is carried out by professional drivers who are experienced in handling the rough desert terrain. The vehicles are equipped with safety features, and safety instructions are provided at the start of the ride. - What should I bring with me on the safari?
It’s recommended to bring your camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. Additionally, it’s a good idea to carry a light jacket or shawl for the cooler desert evening. - Can I book a private evening desert safari?
Yes, private safaris are available. You can book a private vehicle and tailor the experience to your preferences, such as choosing specific activities or having a more intimate setting at the desert camp. - Are there vegetarian options available at the dinner?
Yes, most evening desert safari packages offer a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, including grilled vegetables, salads, falafel, and more. - Is alcohol available at the desert camp?
Alcohol is generally not included in most standard desert safari packages due to local regulations. However, some private tours or luxury safari packages may offer it as part of the experience. - Is the desert safari suitable for children?
Yes, evening desert safaris are family-friendly and suitable for children. However, it is advisable to check with the operator if there are any age restrictions for specific activities like dune bashing or camel rides. - What happens in case of bad weather?
In case of extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain or sandstorms, the safari may be canceled or rescheduled. Most operators will notify you in advance and provide alternatives if needed.
Conclusion
An evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi offers a perfect combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it one of the most popular activities for tourists in the UAE. From the heart-pounding excitement of dune bashing to the serene experience of watching a desert sunset, and the rich cultural experiences at the Bedouin camp, the evening safari provides an authentic taste of desert life. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a solo adventure, this unique experience is sure to leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
