Table of contents
Quick answer
Yes, children can go on a desert safari, and most enjoy the camels, sandboarding and camp shows. Operators set their own minimum age for dune bashing and quad bikes, and many offer smaller quads or passenger rides for children. For young kids, a morning safari or an evening trip with a gentler route to the camp is easiest; ask about car seats when you book.
1What age can children go on a desert safari?
| Activity | Typical rule |
|---|---|
| Camp, camels, henna, shows | Typical ruleAll ages |
| Dune bashing | Typical ruleOperators set a minimum age; very young children often skip it |
| Sandboarding | Typical ruleMost children who can climb a small dune |
| Quad bikes (driving alone) | Typical ruleUsually teenagers and adults; smaller quads for children |
| Dune buggies (driving) | Typical ruleAdults with a licence; children as passengers above a minimum age |
Check the exact ages with the operator before you book.
2Do you need a car seat on a desert safari?
The pick-up and drop-off drive is on public roads, where UAE law requires a child seat for children under four. Ask the operator whether they provide one or whether you should bring your own, and ask what happens on the dune section — some operators do not take very young children on the dunes at all.
3Which safari is best for families?
- Morning safari: shorter (about 4 hours), cooler in winter and done by lunchtime — easy with young children.
- Evening safari: the classic, with dinner and shows, but 6–7 hours and a late finish.
- Private 4x4: your own vehicle and pace, from about AED 800–2,000 per car — worth it for a family of five or six.
- Overnight: memorable for older children; check the camp's bedding and toilets first.
4Tips for a desert safari with children
- Bring water, snacks and a favourite drink — dinner is late on evening trips.
- Pack a jumper in winter; the camp cools quickly after sunset.
- Ask for a gentler dune drive, or skip it for very young children.
- Sit children away from the fire shows and the grill.
- Check the child price when you book — many operators charge less for children.
Sandboarding is often the highlight. Put children on the gentler slopes first, and keep closed shoes on — the sand hides small stones.
5A sample evening with children
- 1Pick-up in the afternoon — bring snacks and water for the drive.
- 2A short, gentle dune drive, or straight to the camp for very young children.
- 3Sandboarding and a camel ride before sunset.
- 4Henna and play at the camp while dinner is prepared.
- 5An early dinner, the first show, and ask to leave before the end if children are tired.
6What suits each age
| Age | Good fits |
|---|---|
| Under 3 | Good fitsCamp, camels with a parent, a short and gentle drive |
| 3–7 | Good fitsSandboarding sitting down, camels, henna, shows |
| 8–12 | Good fitsDune bashing, sandboarding, small quads where offered |
| Teenagers | Good fitsEverything, including quads within the operator's age rules |
Each operator sets its own age limits; check before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Is a desert safari good for kids?
Yes. Most children love the camels, sandboarding and the camp. Choose the trip length and dune drive to suit their age.
What is the minimum age for dune bashing?
Each operator sets its own. Ask before you book, and consider skipping the dune drive with very young children.
Can kids ride quad bikes in Dubai?
Many operators offer smaller quads or passenger rides for children; driving a full-size quad alone is usually for teenagers and adults.
Do children pay less on a desert safari?
Many operators have a child price. Ask for it with the quote.
Is a desert safari suitable for a baby?
The camp can be, but dune bashing is not suitable for babies. Ask for a camp-only or gentle-drive option, and bring shade, water and a light blanket for the cooler evening.
How long is an evening desert safari?
About six hours door to door, finishing late in the evening. For young children, consider a morning safari or ask to leave the camp early.
Is there food for children at the camp?
Buffets usually include plain options such as rice, bread, chicken and salads. If your child has allergies or is a fussy eater, tell the operator in advance and bring snacks.
Written by the TripReview team from our own price benchmarks and the rules published by UAE authorities, and updated 22 September 2026. Figures are ranges, not quotes — check the latest rules with the official source before you travel. How we rate companies
