Dubai is famous worldwide for its exciting desert safaris, attracting tourists who want to experience the vast golden sands and thrilling adventures. Among various locations, the Al Faqa desert near Dubai is becoming a popular destination for an authentic and scenic desert safari experience. Whether you choose a guided tour or a desert safari self drive, Al Faqa offers a unique mix of natural beauty, thrilling activities, and peaceful surroundings.
In this article, we will explore why Al Faqa Dubai is an excellent choice for your next desert safari Dubai, the scenic routes you can enjoy, adventure activities available, and helpful tips like what to wear in desert safari Dubai. We will also touch on related topics such as desert safari packages, prices, and how Al Faqa compares to other nearby deserts like Al Khatim desert.
Why Choose Al Faqa Desert for Your Dubai Desert Safari?
The Al Faqa desert is located about 90 minutes from Dubai city and is a quiet, less crowded area that offers a more natural desert experience. Unlike some more commercialized safari spots, Al Faqa allows visitors to enjoy the desert’s true beauty and peacefulness.
Some key reasons to choose Al Faqa Dubai for your desert safari include:
- Scenic Routes: The sand dunes of Al Faqa are stunning, with vast rolling hills perfect for photography and adventure.
- Less Crowded: The desert here is less busy compared to other popular spots, providing a more private and relaxed experience.
- Adventure-Friendly: Perfect for both beginners and experienced drivers who want to try desert safari Dubai self drive or join a guided tour.
- Variety of Activities: From quad biking to dune bashing, Al Faqa offers exciting activities for all adventure lovers.
Scenic Routes in Al Faqa Desert
One of the main attractions of a desert safari Dubai in Al Faqa is the scenic route through the desert’s natural sand dunes. Whether you are on a guided tour or doing a self drive desert safari, these routes offer:
- Endless Dunes: The rolling sand dunes stretch far and wide, creating beautiful landscapes for exploration.
- Sunrise and Sunset Views: Early morning or evening trips provide stunning views of the desert as the sun rises or sets.
- Wildlife Spotting: You might see desert animals like foxes, camels, and desert birds during your journey.
- Peaceful Surroundings: The quietness of Al Faqa lets you connect deeply with nature away from city noise.
If you prefer to drive yourself, the desert safari Dubai self drive option lets you take these routes at your own pace, stopping wherever you like for pictures or relaxation.
Popular Adventure Activities at Al Faqa Dubai
Al Faqa is not just about driving through dunes; it offers many adventure activities that make your safari more exciting. Here are some of the most popular options:
Quad Biking and Quad Bike Rentals
- Quad biking is one of the most thrilling activities on any Dubai desert safari. At Al Faqa, you can rent a quad bike to explore the dunes with speed and excitement.
- This activity is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Riding a quad bike through the dunes gives you an adrenaline rush and a chance to see the desert from a different perspective.
Dune Bashing
- Dune bashing involves driving a 4×4 vehicle across the desert dunes at different speeds.
- It’s a thrilling activity that combines adventure and skill.
- Many desert safari packages include dune bashing as a key highlight.
Sandboarding
- Sandboarding is like snowboarding but on sand dunes.
- You can rent a board and slide down the dunes, which is fun for all ages.
- It’s an easy activity that adds variety to your desert safari experience.
Camel Riding and Traditional Experiences
- Some safaris in Al Faqa offer camel rides to let you experience the traditional mode of desert transport.
- You can also enjoy local cultural shows and food if you book an evening safari package.
What to Wear in Desert Safari Dubai?
When visiting Al Faqa for a desert safari Dubai, dressing correctly is essential for comfort and protection against the sun and sand. Here are some tips on what to wear in desert safari Dubai:
- Lightweight and Breathable Clothing: Choose cotton or linen clothes that keep you cool in the heat.
- Long Sleeves and Pants: Protect your skin from the sun and sand by wearing long-sleeved shirts and full-length pants.
- Closed Shoes: Sand can get very hot, and closed shoes protect your feet better than sandals.
- Hat or Cap: A hat protects your head and face from direct sunlight.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from bright sunlight and sand.
- Light Jacket: The desert can get cool in the evening, so carry a light jacket.
- For a Dubai desert safari outfit, layering is a good idea, so you can adjust your clothing with temperature changes.
Comparing Al Faqa Desert to Other Safari Locations
While Al Faqa is a great spot, other nearby desert areas like Al Khatim desert and Desert safari Sharjah also attract visitors.
Location | Highlights | Suitable for |
Al Faqa desert | Scenic dunes, quieter, great for self drive | Families, adventure seekers |
Al Khatim desert | Challenging dunes, excellent for off-roading | Experienced drivers, thrill-seekers |
Desert safari Sharjah | Budget-friendly, easy access | Budget travelers, day-trippers |
Choosing between these depends on your interests, budget, and experience level.
Desert Safari Packages and Prices at Al Faqa
Many companies offer desert safari packages that include transportation, meals, and activities. These packages may cover popular deserts including Al Faqa.
Typical Inclusions in Packages:
- Pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Dubai
- Dune bashing or quad biking
- Camel rides and sandboarding
- Dinner with traditional entertainment
- Bottled water and refreshments
Price Range
- The desert safari Dubai price per person generally ranges between AED 150 to AED 350.
- Prices vary based on the time of day, included activities, and whether the tour is private or shared.
- Self-drive options, like renting a 4×4 for Al Faqa, may cost around AED 400 to AED 600 per day, excluding fuel.
Morning Desert Safari at Al Faqa
If you want to avoid the heat and crowds, a morning desert safari in Al Faqa is a great choice.
Benefits of morning safaris:
- Cooler temperatures for driving and activities
- Stunning sunrise views over the dunes
- Peaceful and less crowded environment
- Opportunity for photography in natural light
Tips for a Successful Al Faqa Desert Safari
To make the most of your trip, here are some useful tips:
- Book in advance: Especially if you want a private desert safari Dubai self drive.
- Carry water and snacks: Though many packages provide refreshments, it’s good to have your own supplies.
- Follow safety rules: Whether you drive yourself or join a tour, obey speed limits and driving instructions.
- Wear suitable clothes: Refer to the what to wear in desert safari Dubai advice.
- Protect your camera and phone: Sand can damage electronics, so keep them covered.
Final Thoughts
The Al Faqa desert offers an amazing desert safari experience with scenic routes and adventure activities perfect for all types of travelers. Whether you choose a guided Dubai desert safari package or a self drive desert safari for more freedom, Al Faqa delivers natural beauty and thrilling fun.
If you want a peaceful, authentic desert experience away from the busy tourist spots, Al Faqa Dubai should be on your list. Remember to plan your trip well, dress comfortably, and enjoy the unforgettable landscapes and activities this desert treasure has to offer.