Dubai Desert Safari vs Dubai Safari Park: What’s the Difference

Dubai Safari (desert safari) is an adventure tour in the actual desert where you experience dune bashing, camel rides, and Bedouin culture. But Dubai Safari Park is a zoo where you see animals from around the world in different themed areas.

What is Dubai Desert Safari?

Dubai desert safari is an experience of exploring the Arabian desert. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken on a desert adventure in a 4×4 vehicle through the Arabian desert. During dune bashing – your driver takes you on a thrilling ride over sand dunes.

After the adrenaline rush, you head to a desert camp. You can ride camels, go sandboarding, get henna tattoos, and wear Arabic clothes for photos. The evening ends with a buffet dinner while watching belly dance, fire shows, and Tanoura dance performances under the stars.

A Dubai desert safari includes:

• Pick up and drop off from your hotel
• Dune bashing, camel riding (usually 5 minutes), sandboarding
• Fun activities like traditional dress photo ops, henna tattoos, shisha smoking
• Dance shows
• BBQ dinner, soft drinks, tea, coffee
• Separate male/female restrooms, comfortable seating areas

What is Dubai Safari Park?

Dubai Safari Park is a family- and kid-friendly zoo opened in 2017 and houses over 3,000 animals from different continents. The park is divided into villages themed around Africa, Asia, Arabia, and Exploration.

You walk or take a bus through different sections to see animals like lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, and many others.

Dubai Desert Safari vs. Dubai Safari Park: A Comparative Look

Location and Setting

A desert safari is done in the desert that is about 45 minutes far from the city, Dubai. Once you reach there, you will see endless sand dunes and get to see what real desert looks in this Arab country.

But Safari Park tour is done in the city area called Al Warqa, which falls within Dubai city limits. Unlike desert safari, you will be walking and visiting different animal parks in a controlled environment that is beautifully landscaped and enclosed.

Type of Experience

The Dubai Safari desert tour is adventure and culture focused. You get your heart pumping with dune bashing, experience Bedouin traditions, and enjoy Arabian hospitality.

Safari Park is wildlife and education focused. You observe animals, learn about conservation, and take leisurely walks through different themed areas.

Duration

Desert safari usually lasts 6-7 hours. Most tours start around 3 PM with pickup and end around 9-10 PM after dinner and shows.

Safari Park visits typically take 3-4 hours, depending on how much time you spend in each section.

Best Time to Visit

Desert safaris are better in cooler months (October to April) and most popular as evening experiences when the desert temperature drops.

Safari Park can be visited year-round but is more comfortable during cooler months. It’s better during daytime when animals are more active.

Cost and Inclusions

Desert safari packages are usually more comprehensive, including transportation, activities, meals, and entertainment. Prices range from basic packages to VIP experiences with separate seating and table service.

Safari Park charges entry fees, and you pay separately for food, drinks, and any additional activities inside.

Which One Should You Choose – Dubai Desert Safari or Safari Park?

For a mix of adventure and cultural experience, desert safari is the way to go. It’s perfect for adults and older kids who can handle the bumpy dune bashing ride.

If you’re traveling with young children or prefer a relaxed day seeing animals, Safari Park is better. It’s also good if you have mobility issues since there’s less physical activity involved.

Many visitors actually do both since they offer completely different experiences. The desert safari gives you that authentic Arabian desert adventure, while Safari Park satisfies your wildlife curiosity.

Frequently Asked Questions