Desert Safaris with Kids | Best Things to Do with Kids

Family travel is about creating memories that last a lifetime. While Dubai is famous for luxury shopping malls and futuristic attractions, one of the most magical experiences for families is a desert safari with kids. Unlike theme parks or beaches, the desert offers adventure, culture, and education all in one package. Children can discover a new world filled with sand dunes, camels, falcons, and starry skies.

Parents often ask if desert safaris are suitable for kids. The good news is, yes. With proper planning, desert safaris are safe, family-friendly, and incredibly fun. This blog will explore the best things to do with kids on a desert safari, practical tips for parents, and how to make the most of your family desert adventure.

Why Desert Safari is a Family-Friendly Adventure

Families usually look for activities that combine entertainment with learning. Desert safaris in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah are perfect for this balance. Kids can enjoy outdoor fun while parents relax in the beauty of the desert landscape.

Unlike indoor attractions, a desert safari allows children to connect with nature. Running across golden dunes, spotting desert wildlife, and learning about Bedouin life creates unique experiences. For many kids, it’s their first chance to see camels up close or watch a falcon in flight.

Parents will also appreciate how desert safaris are structured. Tour operators typically include safe rides, cultural shows, and family-friendly meals. This makes the trip enjoyable for both children and adults.

Best Age to Take Kids on Desert Safari

Not every activity is suitable for every age group. Parents need to know which safari experiences are best for toddlers, kids, and teenagers.

Children below 5 years may find dune bashing too intense. However, they can still enjoy camel rides, henna painting, and sand play at the campsite. Parents with toddlers should choose a private safari where the ride can be customized.

Kids between 6–12 years love the adventure. Activities like sandboarding, falcon photography, and cultural shows are safe and fun. This is the ideal age when children can remember and enjoy the experience.

Teenagers above 12 years can try almost all activities, including quad biking and buggy rides (under adult supervision). Safaris become a mix of thrill and cultural learning for them.

Kid-Friendly Activities in Desert Safaris

Desert safaris are designed to entertain all age groups. Here are the best things to do with kids during a desert safari:

1. Camel Riding – The Classic Desert Experience

Camel rides are safe, slow-paced, and perfect for kids. Children feel excited to ride on the “ship of the desert” while learning how Bedouins once traveled across dunes. Most safaris include short camel rides suitable for children.

Parents often capture family photos during camel rides. The golden sand and sunset provide a beautiful backdrop. This activity is relaxing compared to dune bashing and makes kids feel like explorers.

Camel rides are also educational. Guides explain camel habits, making the experience both fun and informative.

2. Sandboarding – Safe Adventure for Kids

Sandboarding is one of the most child-friendly adventure activities in the desert. It’s similar to snowboarding but on soft sand dunes. Even if kids fall, the soft sand makes it safe.

Boards are usually small and light, making them easy for children to handle. Safari operators ensure that the slopes chosen for kids are gentle. Parents can join in the fun or watch from nearby.

Kids love competing with siblings or friends to see who slides down the fastest. This activity creates laughter and excitement for the whole family.

3. Falcon Photography – A Royal Desert Tradition

Falcons are iconic in Arab culture, and most safari camps allow kids to take photos with these majestic birds. Holding a falcon on a glove makes children feel special and connected to history.

Professional handlers ensure safety while teaching kids about falconry. This is a rare experience that kids will proudly talk about long after the trip.

Parents love falcon photography because it combines culture and memory-making in one activity. The photos often become the highlight of family albums.

4. Bedouin Camp Activities – Culture Meets Fun

Most desert safaris include a visit to a Bedouin-style camp. These camps offer family-friendly activities like henna painting, Arabic dress photography, and traditional hospitality. Kids get to taste dates, try Arabic coffee, and watch artisans at work.

Henna painting is especially popular with children. Skilled artists create floral patterns that kids love showing off. Parents appreciate that henna is natural and safe.

Cultural shows like Tanoura dance and fire performances keep kids engaged. The vibrant colors and music make the camp experience lively and memorable.

5. Stargazing in the Desert

Away from city lights, the desert sky becomes a natural planetarium. Families can lie on carpets and watch stars twinkling above. Kids find it fascinating to spot constellations and listen to stories about the stars.

Some overnight safaris even provide telescopes for a closer view. Parents can use this as an educational opportunity to teach astronomy basics.

Stargazing is peaceful and relaxing, making it a perfect way to end the adventurous day.

Safety Tips for Parents Taking Kids on Desert Safari

Safety is always a top priority when traveling with children. Here are essential tips for parents:

• Choose a reputable safari operator with family-friendly packages.
• Opt for private safaris if traveling with very young kids.
• Always carry sunscreen, hats, and water bottles.
• Inform drivers if you prefer a soft dune bashing ride.
• Make sure kids wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for sand.

These small precautions ensure the trip is safe and stress-free for the entire family.

Morning, Evening, or Overnight Safari – What’s Best for Kids?

Each type of safari has advantages, depending on your children’s ages and preferences.

Morning Safari: Best for families with toddlers or young kids. It’s short (3–4 hours) and avoids late-night fatigue. Kids enjoy camel rides and sand play without being overwhelmed.

Evening Safari: Most popular for families. It includes sunset, dinner, cultural shows, and more activities. However, it can be tiring for very young children.

Overnight Safari: Magical for older kids and teenagers. Families enjoy stargazing, campfire, and sleeping in tents. Morning breakfast adds to the adventure.

Parents should choose the option that matches their kids’ energy levels and interests.

Food and Dining Options for Families

Dinner at a desert safari is part of the adventure. Families enjoy BBQ buffets with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Kids love grilled chicken, rice, and fresh bread.

Some camps offer children’s menus with familiar items like pasta and fries. Parents should confirm this before booking.

Meals are usually served in open-air settings with carpets and cushions. Dining under the stars becomes a memorable family moment.

Educational Value of Desert Safaris for Kids

Beyond fun, desert safaris offer a strong educational element for children. Kids learn about:

• Bedouin lifestyle and traditions
• Camel adaptations to desert life
• Falconry and its role in Arab culture
• Astronomy through stargazing
• Importance of conserving desert ecosystems

Parents appreciate that their kids gain cultural awareness and environmental sensitivity while having fun.

Common Questions Parents Ask

Is desert safari safe for toddlers?

Yes, but avoid dune bashing with children under 5. Choose a private safari instead.

Can strollers be used in the desert?

No, but baby carriers work well for toddlers.

Do camps have child-friendly meals?

Most do, but it’s best to confirm before booking.

What should kids wear?

Light clothing, closed shoes, and hats. Jackets are recommended for winter evenings.