This guide will compare the two top tourist attractions in Dubai – a Desert Safari vs a Dhow Cruise!
Among the huge range of things to do in Dubai, two of the most sought-after activities are the Desert Safari and the Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina. Both experiences offer unique glimpses into the city’s culture and stunning landscapes. Making them must-do activities for first-time visitors.
The main difference between a Desert Safari and a Dhow Cruise is that the Desert Safari is an adrenalin-pumping, fast-paced adventure through the desert close to Dubai while the Dhow Cruise is a relaxing, romantic experience that departs from Dubai Marina.
On a Desert Safari, you’ll whizz through sand dunes in a high-powered 4×4 vehicle and you can add on extras like quad biking (my choice) or a camel ride through the remote desert. The tour ends with a delicious BBQ dinner with entertainment (like a belly dancing show and a fire show).
On the other hand, on a Dhow Cruise, you’ll get to see Dubai’s most famous attractions from the water on board a luxurious traditional boat. You’ll get to enjoy a yummy buffet feast on board while listening to live music.
But which tour you choose ultimately depends on what type of traveler you are. Are you looking for a relaxing tour? Or are you after an exhilarating activity?
Desert Safari Dubai Experience
One of the top tourist attractions in Dubai is the Desert Safari, organized by the best Desert Safari company in Dubai, Oasis Palm Tourism. This exhilarating experience begins with an adrenaline-pumping dune-bashing adventure in a powerful 4×4 vehicle.
Skilled drivers go through the steep dunes and give you an unforgettable ride that’s sure to get your heart racing. The rush of descending steep slopes and gliding over the sand creates a tense yet fun atmosphere while admiring the beauty of the Arabian desert.
After the dune bashing, you will arrive at a traditional desert campsite, where you can choose from a range of activities!
Quad biking is a popular option for those looking to explore the desert on their own terms. Participants can hop onto all-terrain vehicles and go through the sandy landscape. You will be able to see the desert from a unique perspective.
For those who prefer a more traditional experience, camel rides are available. This allows you to enjoy a leisurely trek while soaking in the breathtaking surroundings.
As the sun sets, you can enjoy a yummy BBQ dinner under the stars. The meal typically includes a variety of grilled meats, fresh salads, and flavorful Middle Eastern dishes. This is catering to all tastes. And that’s not all there’s also a captivating belly dance show and a thrilling fire show included! Prices start from 220 AED ($60 USD) for the evening safari with quad biking.
In short, the Desert Safari experience is a great option for adrenaline junkies or solo travelers (we met a lot of like-minded tourists when we did the tour).
You can BOOK this Desert Safari tour here. There are a few options to choose from.
Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina
Another unmissable Dubai experience is the Dhow Cruise along the Dubai Marina. On board the beautifully decorated Al Wasl Dhow, guests can enjoy a leisurely cruise that shows some of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, including Ain Dubai and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR).
The cruise typically lasts around two hours and features a mouthwatering buffet spread with all types of cuisines on offer.
As you cruise along the calm waters of the marina, you’ll be able to see the stunning skyline of Dubai all lit up. A picture-perfect backdrop for your dining experience. You’ll see the impressive Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel, and the luxurious residences along JBR, and Burj Khalifa.
As I said, the buffet includes an array of dishes, from traditional Arabic fare to international cuisine, all prepared by some of the city’s top chefs. The atmosphere is further enhanced by live music.
The Dhow Cruise is the perfect way to unwind and soak in the beauty of the city. It’s the no-brainer choice for couples or foodies on a budget as prices start from just $30 USD.
You can BOOK the Al Wasl Dhow Cruise here. Prices start from just 100 AED ($30 USD) per person.
So, is a Desert Safari or a Dhow Cruise better?
A Desert Safari and a Dhow Cruise are two of the top tourist attractions in Dubai. Hopefully, with our comparison, you’ll be able to clear all confusion and determine which tour to do on your vacation to Dubai.
I’ll be honest, I’d really try to squeeze both into your Dubai itinerary! It’s easily done seeing as the Desert Safari is a day-time tour and the Dhow Cruise is an evening tour.
As you have read, a Dhow Cruise is the best option for couples and a Desert Safari is the best choice for those adventurous travelers. There are pros and cons to both tours. And as I said if you can, make an effort to do both!
Additionally, both the Desert Safari and Dhow Cruise offer additional activities that cater to various interests. For example, during the Desert Safari, you can do henna painting, snap some photos wearing traditional Emirati costumes, or give sandboarding a go.
Similarly, the Dhow Cruise can be customized to include private dining options, special decorations for celebrations, or even entertainment like Tanoura dance performances. This allows you to tailor your experience to your preferences.
Where to Stay in Dubai
I’ve visited the city a couple of times and below are my favorite hotels in Dubai –
- Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina – This hotel is located in the lovely and vibrant marina and features a pool, gym, restaurant, and comfortable and spacious rooms. It also offers free valet parking for guests! Rooms here average around $145 USD per night.
- Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort – If you’re looking for a beachy place to spend the night in Dubai, look no further than the Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort has direct beach access, a swimming pool, and a gym. It’s stylishly decorated and has a beachy vibe. It’s also very family-friendly with lots of kids’ activities on offer. Rooms here are around $140 USD per night.
- Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah – This 5-star property is situated on West Palm Beach and offers stunning views over the Arabian Gulf. It features an oceanfront pool, 10 bars and restaurants, a Spa, and so much more. It’s luxury for a good price with rooms averaging $175 USD per night.
Thanks for Reading!
As you can see, both tours offer an unforgettable experience in Dubai. They are, after all, the top tourist attractions in Dubai for good reason! If time allows, I highly recommend ticking off both tours. But, if you really have to choose between the two I’d say do the Dhow Cruise if you’re a couple looking for a romantic experience and the Desert Safari if you’re keen for some adrenalin-pumping fun!
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Last Updated on October 9, 2024 by snaphappytravel