Avoid These 7 Costly Mistakes Tourists Make on a Desert Safari in Dubai
- Shehreen fatima
- Jul 15
- 4 min read
Planning a desert safari in Dubai? Great choice! A Dubai safari is an unforgettable adventure—but only if you plan it right. Every year, thousands of tourists fall into avoidable traps that turn an exciting journey into a stressful one. Whether it’s choosing the wrong tour or showing up unprepared, a few simple missteps can cost you both time and money.
Pro Tip: If you're looking for a reliable and luxurious experience, book the Best private desert Safari Dubai and skip the common headaches altogether.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 7 most common mistakes tourists make and how you can avoid them for a smooth, memorable ride through Dubai’s golden sands.
Why Planning Your Desert Safari in 2025 Is More Important Than Ever
Dubai’s tourism industry is booming in 2025, especially with desert safaris ranking among the top five most booked experiences in the city.
In 2024, over 5.2 million tourists booked a desert safari in Dubai — a 17% increase compared to the previous year. (Source: Dubai Tourism)
With rising demand comes more options, but also more chances to get scammed, overpay, or end up on a subpar tour. That’s why preparation and awareness are crucial before heading into the dunes.
1. Booking the Cheapest Safari Without Reading Reviews
We get it—you’re trying to save money. But choosing the lowest-priced tour without checking reviews can backfire. Some budget tours may skip essentials like water, safety briefings, or experienced guides.
Risks:
Overcrowded jeeps with 7–8 passengers
Rushed or incomplete experiences
Hidden charges not listed online
Tip: Always check Google Reviews, TripAdvisor, or Viator to validate the operator’s credibility. Look for keywords like “licensed driver,” “clean camp,” and “on-time pickup.”
2. Wearing the Wrong Clothes and Footwear
Desert weather can shift quickly—from scorching heat to chilly breezes in the evening. Wearing jeans, open sandals, or synthetic tops can make you miserable.
Recommended Clothing:
Men & Women: Loose cotton shirts, breathable pants
Footwear: Sneakers or desert boots (avoid flip-flops)
Extras: Sunglasses, scarf (shemagh), and a light jacket for evening safaris
Wearing the wrong outfit not only makes you uncomfortable but can also limit your participation in fun activities like sandboarding or camel rides.
3. Skipping Hydration and Sun Protection
You’ll be out in the sun for hours, so skipping sunscreen or not bringing water is a major mistake.
Essential Items:
Broad-spectrum SPF 50+
Polarized sunglasses
Wide-brimmed hat or scarf
Refillable water bottle (most camps do not offer unlimited free water)
Sunburns, dehydration, and headaches are common complaints among tourists who don't prepare properly.
4. Ignoring the Timing – Morning vs Evening vs Overnight
Each desert safari time slot offers a different experience. Picking the wrong one for your travel style can lead to disappointment.
Time Comparison Table
Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
Morning Safari | Adventure junkies | Cooler temps, fewer crowds | No BBQ, no shows |
First-time travelers | Sunset view, BBQ dinner, shows | Can be crowded in high season | |
Overnight Safari | Couples & explorers | Stargazing + full cultural vibe | Higher price, limited availability |
Tip: Evening safaris are best for a full experience, especially those offering a BBQ dinner, Tanoura shows, and belly dancing.
5. Forgetting to Confirm Pick-Up & Drop-Off Times
Many tourists miss their rides because they assume someone will call them. Don't make this mistake!
Tips to Avoid This:
Call or WhatsApp your tour operator 24 hours before your safari
Confirm your hotel name, room number, and pickup time
Be ready 15 minutes before the scheduled time
Shared pickups often cover multiple hotels, and missing your slot can result in no refund.
6. Not Bringing Cash for Tips and Extras
While most tours are prepaid, on-site add-ons like quad biking, falcon photos, or shisha may require extra cash.
What You Might Pay For:
Quad biking: 100–200 AED
Falcon photos: 20–50 AED
Henna: 10–30 AED
Gratuities for drivers: 10–20 AED
Bring 100–200 AED in small bills as some camps don't support card or mobile payments.
7. Overpacking or Bringing the Wrong Gear
Large bags, laptops, or expensive gear are often more of a burden than a benefit in the desert.
What to Pack Instead:
Light backpack
Power bank
Passport or ID copy
Wet wipes & tissues
Light jacket for evening tours
GoPro or action cam (DSLRs can get sand-damaged)
Travel light and bring only what you need—you’ll thank yourself later!
Bonus Tip: Avoid Last-Minute Bookings During Peak Seasons
Peak travel months in Dubai include December–February and during Eid holidays. Prices surge and good tours get booked out fast.
Insider Tip:
Book your evening desert safari at least 7–10 days in advance if you’re traveling during high season.
Final Thoughts
Your desert safari in Dubai should be an experience you cherish—not one you regret. By avoiding these 7 mistakes, you ensure a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable journey.
Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just looking to unwind under the stars, planning ahead makes all the difference.
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