Arabian Adventures

Arabian Adventures is one of Dubai's best-known tour operators and part of the Emirates Group, the airline group with more than 50 divisions. That connection gives it scale and a strong focus on safety and logistics, and it has long been a reliable choice for first-time visitors who want a desert trip without having to research smaller operators. Its Evening Desert Safari received a Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice award in 2025.

The programme is built around the desert. The Evening Desert Safari is the classic choice, combining a drive through the dunes with a camp visit, dinner and entertainment under the stars. The Morning Desert Adventure suits those who prefer an earlier start and cooler temperatures, and the Exclusive Desert Experience offers a more private, upgraded version. Camel rides and a Dune Buggy Adventure, in which guests drive their own buggies under supervision, cater to different levels of adventure, and Overnight Desert Camping lets you sleep in the desert and wake to the sunrise. School trips are also offered.

Many experiences can be tailored to a guest's preferences, and pick-up arrangements can be confirmed when you book. Bookings can be made online, by phone on 800 ARABIAN (800 272 2426) within the UAE or +971 4 274 8803, or by email. The company says it upholds the highest safety standards, which is reassuring on dune drives, but anyone with back problems, pregnant travellers or parents of small children should ask for a gentler option without dune driving.

Desert trips are most comfortable between October and April. Wear light, loose clothing and closed shoes, bring sunglasses and a light layer for winter evenings, and keep cameras in a bag to protect them from sand. Prices vary widely between the standard safaris and the exclusive options, so compare inclusions carefully before you choose a trip.

The company also sells city sightseeing and attraction passes, so it can be a one-stop shop for planning a short stay. Desert trips head out to the dunes beyond the city and return in the evening in time for a late night out or a good sleep before the next day.