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15 Best Desert Safaris in Dubai

By Maresa Manara

A desert safari is one of the best ways to experience Emirati culture. From quad biking over sand dunes to camping under the stars to taking a sunrise hot air balloon tour, here's our pick of the very best desert safaris in Dubai. Ante up the adrenaline, and dive on in.

Bedouin Life, Falconry, and Wildlife Drive by Platinum Heritage Arrow

While this tour’s selling point is that it lets guests "experience life as a Bedouin nomad," being picked up at your hotel door in a luxury Land Rover sets things off on a more comfortable foot. Camels will take you to the Bedouin camp in time for sunrise, and the wildlife safari in the Desert Conservation Reserve, which stops to see local animals, is once-in-a-lifetime. Guides are great: they’ll help you prepare traditional Arabic dishes (Ful medames, Arabic bread, and desserts) and explain the ins and outs of local Arabic dancing.

Overnight Safari by Rayna Tours & Travel Arrow

Drivers take Al Awir road into the desert for some dune driving and photos at sunset. From there, head to the camp for camel rides. Next up, there’s a belly dancing show and open bar, henna painting, and a fire show. However, it’s the overnight experience that is truly special. Once all the other guests have left, guides set up camp with sleeping bags and blankets, and a special star gazing talk. Watching the sunrise from your camp over breakfast is unforgettable. If you pre-book, guides will stop for some sand skiing and quad biking opportunities on the way back to Dubai.

Evening Desert Safari by Atlanta Safari Dubai Arrow

There’s something magical about venturing into the desert at night, and this late afternoon-evening safari is no different. This is the kind of tour where guests feel completely looked after. Once everyone reaches camp, there are pre-dinner snacks, henna tattoo opportunities and live dance shows. The buffet barbecue dinner (couscous, fresh salads, lamb roasted below ground, grilled prawns, chicken and apricot stews) is one of the best we’ve had on a desert safari.

Overnight Desert Safari and Hot Air Balloon flight by Platinum Heritage Arrow

Luxury safaris don’t get much better than this, and the hotel pick up in an open-top vintage Land Rover’s your first clue. As you leave the city behind and head for the desert, guides regale guests with tales of Dubai’s history, as well as a run-through of local customs and traditions. Once you reach the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, the tour turns safari, African-style. The camels that take you back to your Arabic tent in the evening are an extra special touch, and the early morning hot air balloon flight is a magical experience.

Steph Koyfman

Alex Erdekian

Laura Walsh

Jamie Spain

Dune Riders (Adventure Unlimited) by Dream Explorer Dubai Arrow

Adventurous travelers make up this tour’s tribe. Once you get to the desert, there’s a swift safety briefing and then you’re off: dipping and diving over sunburnt sand dunes, some of which lie at a stomach-dropping 90 degree angle. The trip happens in convoy, so there’s no need to worry about ending up lost in the middle of the desert. An hour of sand boarding adds extra thrills.

Quad Bikes Safari by Red Dunes Desert Safari Arrow

There’s nothing quite like charging over dunes and across the desert on your very own quad bike. Everyone is picked up at the hotel, and driven 30 minutes to the quad biking spot in the desert. While this certainly isn’t the most luxurious, or in-depth desert safari, it’s ideal for anyone who wants to experience local Arabic culture and have a bit of adventure on a short time frame.

Hummer H2 Safari by Sand Trax Dubai Desert Safaris Arrow

This four-hour tour begins with a hotel pick up in a huge white Hummer, which will whisk you out to the desert. Drivers are super organized and run you through the itinerary: thrilling dune drive, photos at sunset, a barbecue dinner, belly dancing, a dizzyingly good whirling dervish, shisha, and Arabic coffee so strong your spoon stands upright in it. Most people do desert safaris in a Land Cruiser, so the experience in a Hummer is completely different, and novel.

Desert Safari by Arabian Nights Tours Arrow

The adrenaline charge that bumping over the steep sand dunes gives you is amazing, but it’s the post-drive camp time that really stands out. Rather than the usual all-you-can-eat buffet and barbecue, this camp offers shawarma – a typical Arabic dish of ground meat, falafel or chicken with vegetables and fries, served in a wrap. There are opportunities to get henna tattoos or watch a belly-dancing show, or just spend time with friends at the table, before being driven back to your hotel.

Morning Desert Safari with Sand Boarding by Arabian Expedition Arrow

If you get to bed early, a desert safari in the morning is rather special – and this one with Arabian Expedition is one of the best. The drive over Dubai’s undulating dunes is fun, with experienced drivers navigating some hair-raisingly steep drops. Once you've caught your breath there’s sand boarding, with a guide showing you to how whizz down the slopes.

Desert Safari by Adventure Leisure Tourism Arrow

Adventure Leisure Tourism offers plenty of safaris, but their straight up desert safari is by far their best—and the range of activities included is far more eclectic than most. This activity-led tour will take guests dune bashing, on a camel ride, and through a whirlwind of cultural experiences, with a variety of shows you won't see elsewhere. For an extra fee, guests can add quad biking to the mix.

Flying Carpet with Dinner for Two Safari by Orient Tours Arrow

This romantic tour runs on request for parties of two. Things kick off with a dune drive in one of their luxury Jeeps, before you’re taken to a very impressive lump of sand for a sand-boarding lesson. A local camel farm follows, and finally a well-deserved private barbecue dinner at a desert camp, with performances. The pre-dinner falcon show is great, but it’s the whirling dervish performance that really captured our imagination.

Sunrise in the Desert Safari by Tribal Trail Tourism Arrow

Anyone wanting a personalized tour will love Tribal Trails’ early morning take on the desert safari. This tour is popular with families and older travellers who rise early, but are still up for an adventure, and the option to request a private car is part of the appeal. Drivers are attentive and kind, and safety conscious: a boon when navigating the rollercoaster-like dunes, and when strapping guests into sandboards.

Premium Sundowner Dune Dinner Safari by Arabian Adventures Arrow

A desert safari is one of the best things to do in Dubai, and this is the crème de la crème. Jump in the Land Rover and make for the desert, where you’ll get to experience a sunset dune drive in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (knowing a portion of your ticket goes to conservation). A glass of bubbly calms any post-dune-bashing nerves, as does kicking back on Arabian-style blankets with a shisha pipe. Of course, don’t forget to enjoy the dinner: an Arabic-style buffet and barbecue that are well worth writing home about.

Exclusive Morning Safari by Funtours Arrow

A cheerful morning pick up sets the tone for this family-friendly tour. Guides are smiley and informed – and they’re great drivers, too. There’s a definite game plan, with exactly 20 minutes of dune driving, followed by a camel ride and a short but sweet sand boarding session. Ideal for anyone with a short window to experience Dubai’s desert, this tour checks all the boxes.

Evening Red-Dunes Desert Safari Dubai by OceanAir Travels Arrow

This full-day desert safari packs adventure in, making it possible to experience the best of the desert in just a day. The dune bashing is great, but it’s the sand surfing that’s the real highlight. Guides show you how to soar down the dunes, before everyone piles back into the Land Cruiser and heads to the desert campsite. Anyone with leftover energy can head to the camel rides, but there’s henna painting and shisha pipes waiting on the colorful Arabian carpets, too.

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Video: All that you can do on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Dubai Safari Park

• Environment

Close encounters with wild animals like a caretaker is an enriching experience

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Dubai: How would you like to get really up close and personal with animals? Do you want to feed a rhino, pet an elephant, laugh with a giraffe, clutch a two-metre long boa constrictor, play with a chameleon and learn about animal anatomy?

Dubai Safari Park, home to over 2,600 animals of over 250 species, has recently launched a unique experience called ‘Behind-the-Scenes Tour’, allowing visitors to explore the zoo like an animal caretaker. The package – priced at Dh1,200 and good for a maximum of 10 people per tour – will give the group an exclusive access to staff areas.

“This private guided tour takes guests to the back of animal housing areas in a private open-air vehicle, where they will have the opportunity to encounter various animal and do enrichment activities along the way,” according to Dubai Safari.

Animal keeper for a day

Last week, Gulf News was given the 90-minute tour that brought us to areas normally reserved for the zoo-keepers. The tour had six stops, including a visit to the veterinary clinic, reptile house, rhino pen, elephant enclosure, giraffe house and an interaction with the show team trainers.

Callum Chase, one of the Dubai Safari guides, walked us through the tour and gave us insights into the animal life. He also explained animal behaviour such as how animals interact socially and how they adapt with their environment.

‘Moody chameleon and cuddly snake’

First, we entered the Reptile House, where we met Evie, the “moody” chameleon, and George, the “sweet and cuddly” snake. Chase said chameleons actually change their colours not based on their environment but on their mood. Evie, at first, turned light brown – meaning she was a bit upset - but eventually turned green, which meant she had settled down. Part of the Behind-the-Scenes Tour was feeding Evie with live roaches for breakfast.

Then, we cuddled George, a non-venomous two-metre red-tailed boa constrictor. George is ectothermic - a cold-blooded animal whose regulation of body temperature depends on external sources like sunlight or heated surface. Humans are warm-blooded and this is the reason why snakes in captivity like George love to “coil themselves in the arms of humans”. The scales of George are like marble-polished glass.

UAE-born giraffe

One of the stars at the Duba Safari is Imara, a female Southern African giraffe born in the UAE. Together with her friend, Yala, and another female reticulated giraffe (with its brown and white, brick-like pattern), we fed the trio with freshly-cut carrots and lettuce.

Giraffes are ruminants, meaning they digest food like cows and they have four-chamber stomachs. They are also the tallest land animal in the world, with an average height of five metres or around 16 feet. One will definitely be awed by their size as they stoop down, with their 18 to 20-inch long tongue, to grab the treat right from one’s hand.

‘Sweet rhinos’

Next stop was the Rhino enrichment area, where we met Nova (male rhino) and Hannah (female). Dubai Safari Park has a total of five rhinos – one male (Nova) and four females (Hannah, Olive, stumpy and Heidi).

“The rhinos are absolute sweethearts,” said Chase, adding: “Rhino horns are not made of bone, but of keratin – the same material like human hair and fingernails. This is why a rhino’s horn is not attached to its skull because it is actually a compacted mass of hairs that grow throughout its lifetime, just like human hair and nails.”

The rhinos were fed with hay and straw but what they liked most was getting a rub behind their ears with a brush. Chase also said they would like one day to have the rhinos breed in captivity.

Elegant elephants

After the close encounter with rhinoceros, we met the bigger pachyderms (thick-skinned animals) – the elephants.

There are four elephants (one male and three females) at Dubai Safari and the popular ones are Matiba and Zulu.

Coming face-to-face with the elegant elephants was not only a fantastic photo opportunity for a post on Facebook, Tiktok or Instagram, but the chance to hand-feed Matiba and Zulu also provided an enriching chance to learn more about the favourite animals at the zoo.

The interaction was also an educational one to enlighten visitors about animal protection and conservation – that elephants and rhinoceros should not fall prey to big-game hunting.

Treating animals

The visit to the veterinary hospital was also very enriching. Chase, who studied animal behaviour for five years at a university, said caretakers take note of animal actions daily. “If a gazelle, for example, looks lame and lethargic – that is a sign that something is wrong with the animal. Caretakers will observe the gazelle and if the behaviour or condition gets worse, then the animal is brought in to the veterinary hospital.”

When we visited the animal hospital, we were also shown an African lion’s skull, fossil of a Barbary sheep’s horn, a Nile crocodile’s skull and skin, a Black buck’s horn, and a complete set of lion’s long and sharp teeth.

Chase also explained how animals are given medicines and how they are carefully transported from the enclosures to the hospital for surgery or treatment.

There is an animal ward – just like a regular human hospital ward – where recovering animals stay before they are released back to their compound.

Human hospitality

The special tour was not only an interaction with the animals but we also connected with the show team trainers.

Filipino expat Mark Nieves, an animal trainer, gave a lowdown on how show animals are trained. He said the safari is not a circus so animals are not taught tricks but they are trained, based on their natural behaviours.

“This means, we never force animals to do what we want but we adjust to what they want to do, with the help our training tools,” Nieves explained, as he gave peanuts as a reward to Pancho, a green-winged macaw, for following his instructions to fly from one person to another.

Chase added training animals is a form of enrichment and animal brain stimulation as they learn to adapt to their environment.

Enriching encounter

Overall, the Behind-the-Scenes tour was both rewarding and enriching. All animal encounters were conducted in a protected -contact situation, and more importantly, the guide provided colourful insights and commentaries on animal life.

Dubai Safari Park is open from 9am to 5pm daily. Online booking is highly recommended.

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Dubai Safari Park Guide

About dubai safari park.

Experience the wild side of Dubai at one of its most popular attractions with your Dubai Safari Park tickets. Spanning a massive area the park houses more than three thousand animals brought here from different parts of the world. Explore the four unique zones that the park is divided into, each with its own distinct features and specialties. Each zone is named a ‘village’ which is distinguished on the basis of different parts of the globe to which the animals belong. These include the Explorer Village, African Village, Asian Village, Al Wadi, Arabian Village, as well as a Kids Farm where children can spend a happy time playing and learning about wildlife.

The Dubai Safari Park offers a variety of other experiences and activities that will make your visit here memorable. Embark on a drive-through experience on one of the park’s air-conditioned buses to spot the animals at close quarters. You can also enjoy other activities like bird, goat, and giraffe feeding, breakfast with the feathered inhabitants of the park, or an exclusive photography tour with an expert guide to fill you in on interesting facts and fun stories about the park and its inhabitants.

Dubai Safari Park Tickets

Here is your big opportunity to witness this region’s one-of-a-kind safari park where you get to meet animals from a variety of species nurtured in their natural habitats. So get your Dubai Safari Park ticket booking done today to explore the diverse sections of the park each of which promises a unique experience. Moreover, by booking your Dubai Safari Park tickets online you can further enhance your experience. You get to book from the comforts of your own home or on the go as opposed to braving long queues in the heat if you were to get them at the venue in person. Moreover, when you do your Dubai Safari Park ticket booking in advance online you can also enjoy amazing deals, offers, and discounts.

Why You Should Visit Dubai Safari Park?

• Enjoy a unique experience of visiting this well-maintained safari park that houses over 3000 animals from across the globe
• Get your Dubai Safari Park tickets to explore the distinct ‘Villages’ or zones that replicate the natural habitat for animals from various parts of the world, whether they are grasslands or tropical rainforests
• From African Savannah and Asian Village to Arabian steppes and Wadi corner, the park promises a one-of-a-kind experience in each of its sections
• You can see animals from about 250 different species including tigers, lions, hippos, gazelles, hyenas, gorillas, flamingos, reptiles, chimpanzees, and much more
• Indulge in entertaining activities like going for an elephant or a camel ride, or feeding the giraffes
• For more thrill, use your Dubai Safari Park tickets to sit on board a powerful vehicle that will take you for a drive-through experience
• Appreciate the interactive park’s praiseworthy endeavors at conserving energy with its power-efficient facilities that make use of solar energy along with other tasks like breeding endangered species
• Make the most of your visit to the wild with kids where they can learn about different animals, their ecosystems, natural habits, and much more
• Kids can also enjoy the kids’ zoo here along with interactive games and activities.

Villages at Dubai Safari Park

Visit the section of the park that showcases the beautiful Arabian desert wildlife with animals that range from the majestic Oryx and Arabian wolves to ostriches, gazelles, and much more. This is a drive-through experience that is reminiscent of the vast deserts of Western Asia and the Arabian peninsula, complete with images of historic nomadic desert culture.

Enjoy a fun-filled tour around the Asian Village aboard a toy train with your Dubai Safari Park tickets. Here you can witness the diverse culture that this continent represents along with the influences of its ornate architecture. You will find animals that inhabit a range of habitats from forests to ponds like gibbons, moon bears, and komodo dragons.

Embark on a veritable world tour right here with your Dubai Safari Park tickets that will take you deep within the African rainforests. Find some of the most exotic animals here like white lions, Chimpanzees, giant tortoises, and more. There are other creatures as well that represent the African continent like the Hippo, Okapi, Gorilla, African Lion, Lemur, Pygmy, Flamingo, and Bongo.

Book your Dubai Safari Park tickets today and head to its main attraction, the Explorer Village which showcases the best that the park has to offer. It represents the dense forests of Asia in conjunction with the African grasslands and houses majestic lions, tigers, antelopes, striped hyena, cape buffalo, Nile crocodile, and much more.

This is a veritable edutainment section where kids not only have fun but learn in a fun way about wildlife as well as engage in first-hand interactions with farm animals. While playing at the children’s playground featured in this facility, they can also enjoy the farm-like environment with ducks, chickens, sheep, ponies, and parrots.

One of the most picturesque sections of the park, this is a location you can enjoy with friends and family by using your Dubai Safari Park tickets. From man-made streams and lush greenery, everything is beautifully maintained by the Dubai municipality. Known primarily for its scenic beauty, this zone replicates the beautiful Wadis or valleys of this region.

Discover Dubai Safari Park

Dubai Safari Park, located in the heart of Dubai, is a sprawling wildlife sanctuary that offers an immersive and educational experience for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Spanning over 119 hectares, it's a remarkable showcase of the world's diverse ecosystems and a hub for conservation and environmental education.

Dubai Safari Park emphasizes education and conservation, with informative exhibits and interactive programs that raise awareness about wildlife preservation. It's not just a recreational attraction but a place where visitors can connect with the natural world and appreciate the importance of protecting our planet's biodiversity.

Experiences at Dubai Safari Park

Embark on a drive-through adventure on one of the park’s Safari buses as you get the opportunity to spot exotic animals from Asia and Africa at close quarters. The knowledgeable park guides will make the experience more interesting with fascinating stories and fun facts. You can see animals like tigers, hippos, crocodiles, rhinos, lions, zebras, antelopes, baboons, hyenas, giraffes, and much more.

If you are looking for a special experience at the Dubai Safari Park, go for this luxurious package where you receive a ‘king-like treatment. Get driven around the park in a chauffeured car along with a personal guide who will provide you with all the interesting stories and fun facts about the park and its inhabitants. This package will also give you priority access to all the park’s facilities, exhibits, and reserved seats at bird shows.

This is a popular Dubai Safari Park activity that is well-liked by families and people of all age groups looking for a unique breakfast experience. So start your morning on a distinct and positive note while enjoying a scrumptious breakfast with the feathered inhabitants here. Feed the birds and get clicked with them all the while under the keen guidance of a park animal caretaker.

This is a unique and very exclusive Dubai Safari Park experience, especially for photography fans. Embark on a three hours long journey on the Safari Journey private bus that will cruise you around the park for that perfect animal shot you have always wanted to take. You will be accompanied by a guide who will help you in your endeavor to capture your once-in-a-lifetime shot.

Know Before You Go Dubai Safari Park

Opening Hours :

The Dubai Safari Park is open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day. The timings may however vary during the month of Ramadan.

How to Reach :

• Dubai Metro: The nearest metro station to Dubai Safari Park is Rashidiya. From here you can take a taxi to your destination.
• Bus: The nearest bus stop to Dubai Safari Park is Rashidiya. From here you can take a taxi to your destination.
• By Taxi: You can take a taxi from different parts of the city like Downtown Dubai or Dubai Marina to Dubai Safari Park that will cost your AED 55 and AED 90 respectively
• By Car: If you are visiting by car, you can access Gate 1 of Dubai Safari Park through Ras Al Khor Road (opposite side of Dragon Mart) and Gate 2 through Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street.

• Littering inside the park or feeding/teasing the animals is strictly prohibited.
• Bicycles, skateboards, scooters, and roller skates are also prohibited within the park premises.
• You are also not allowed to use balloons, balls, toy guns, drones, or flash photography as these may scare the animals.
• Smoking is restricted other than in designated smoking areas around the park.
• Consumption of alcoholic drinks is also prohibited here.
• Outside food, beverages, and pets are not allowed as this may affect the park animals’ safety.

• All guests are subjected to screening by the park’s security team at the entrance for the health and security of the animals.
• Guests should be appropriately attired wherein their knees and shoulders should be covered keeping in mind the culture and sentiments of the country.
• Minors should be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times and all guests should pay attention to staff instructions at all times.
• The park has created a perfectly safe environment for visitors and does not take any responsibility for loss of goods or personal injuries whatsoever.

• The various facilities that Dubai Safari Park offers include toilets with bathrooms in each toilet block along with the ability to accommodate people of determination (POD).
• There is a facility for getting souvenir photos clicked during animal feeding sessions by the park’s photographers.
• Other facilities include wheelchairs, baby changing rooms in the villages of the park, prayer rooms at four different locations of the park, and first-aid with an in-house paramedic to attend to guest emergencies.
• You can access the Dubai Safari Park map and share photos on social media by using the park’s free Wi-Fi connection, and enjoy kids’ rides on mini cars that can be rented at the African Village and Explorer Village.
• There is a customer service desk, an information center, and lost and found assistance in case you misplace a belonging during your visit.
• Food and Beverages:There are 4 main restaurants located in different sections of the Dubai Safari Park. These are La Marquise, Bait Al Qadeem, Oregano, and Local House.

Dubai Safari Park organizes a variety of entertaining live shows like bird shows, birds of prey shows, goat feeding, bird feeding, etc. While you enjoy reserved seats with your Dubai Safari Park tickets for live shows, seating is available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Moreover, as all shows have limited seating capacity, the park has the right to withhold admission once seating is filled. The park also holds the right to delay or cancel live shows based on weather uncertainties, etc. without being liable to give refunds or adjust dates. They can also alter the content of live shows for animal welfare steps and their health, and security.

FAQ's of Dubai Safari Park

How long does it take to visit the whole park.

It usually takes about four to five hours to tour the whole park and see everything that the Dubai Safari Park offers. However, this duration varies from guest to guest and the activities selected by them for the tour.

Is there a specific dress code to enter the park?

Although it is recommended you wear comfortable clothing and shoes, all guests are to be appropriately dressed to enter the park failing which they will be restricted entry at the gate. Shoulders and knees should be covered at all times and dressing should be keeping the culture and sentiments of the country in mind.

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What’s the best time to visit Dubai Safari Park?

The best time to visit Dubai Safari Park is in the early mornings and early evenings. This is when the weather is the best for trekking through the park and enjoying all its activities.

What are the different types of animals at Dubai Safari Villages?

• Arabian Desert Safari: Mountain gazelle, Scimitar-horned Oryx, Addax, Arabian Oryx, Arabian gazelle, Sand gazelle, and Arabian Wolf
• Explorer Village: Cheetah, Baboon, Zebra, African buffalo, Ostrich, Blackbuck, Nilgai, Hippo, South Africa Giraffe, Giraffe, Sarus cranes, Guineafowl, and Sambar Deer
• African Village: Chimpanzee, Peacock, Gorilla, Afro Asian Sand Snake, Carpet Python, Patas monkey, Vervet monkey, Ruffed lemur black & white, African Elephant, and more
• Asian Village: Black bear, Orangutans, Komodo dragons, Gibbon, Southern Cassowary, and Mandarin Duck
• Al Wadi: Duck, Peacocks, Swans, and Pelicans
• Kids Farm: Local duck, Love bird, Najdi sheep, Pony, Amazon parrot, Donkey, Eurasian bullfinch, Cockatiel, and more

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Into the wild! Your complete guide to Dubai Safari Park

• Attractions
• Timings and Location

Dubai Safari Park has reopened for a new season with plenty of new animals to see, restaurants to munch in and interactive edutainment shows to enjoy. Let’s find out all about Safari Park Dubai attractions, timings and ticket prices.

About Dubai Safari Park

The Dubai Safari Park location is Al Warqaa . This wildlife facility houses almost 3,000 animal species, including birds, carnivores, reptiles, primates, invertebrates and amphibians. The venue is also home to the African elephants, the world’s largest land mammal.

Visitors can enjoy various interactive activities, awareness programmes, and the opportunity to feed the animals by hand. Also, various park facilities are designed to make your visit more convenient and fun. Furthermore, visitors have access to these facilities.

• Restaurants and kiosks
• Baby changing rooms
• First aid facility
• Separate prayer areas for male and female visitors

Must-visit Attractions

Safari Park in Dubai makes an eye-catching first impression with its beautiful lakes and verdant landscaping. You can spot a fleet of eco-friendly vehicles to take you around the massive park.

The 119-hectare safari is divided into different zones, each featuring distinctive topography and animal population. Let’s learn more about the zones and the kind of animals they have.

Arabian Desert Safari

Want to see an Arabian Oryx in all its glory? This drive-through attraction is the place to be. A marshall greets visitors before they begin the trip. During the short journey, visitors encounter some of the best-known animals in the Arabian Peninsula, from the Arabian Oryx to gazelles and camels. However, the hero animal of this zone is the Arabian Wolf!

• Hero animal: Arabian Wolf
• Native animals: Arabian Oryx, Addax, Arabian gazelle, Sand gazelle, Mountain gazelle and Scimitar-horned Oryx.

Explorer Village

The Safari Journey at the Explorer Village is the main zone attraction. The traditional open safari transports you to the jungles of Asia and Africa for close encounters with the resident animal population. Visitors can explore the village in specially designed vehicles and spot species like zebra, water buffalo and cheetah (the village’s Hero Animal).

Families love the cheetah-run area, where they can see the frisky beasts in action. The place also offers giraffe feeding activities and a bird show.

• Hero animal: Cheetah
• Native animals: Hippo, South African Giraffe, Sarus cranes, Nile Crocodile, Guineafowl, Baboon, Scimitar-horned Oryx, Greater Kudu, Striped Hyena, Impala, Zebra and many more
• Must-visit places: Giraffe Feeding, Birds Show and Safari Journey

African Village

Another go-to area is the African Village Dubai Safari Park, home to a range of exotic animal species like majestic white lions, giraffes, and the hero of this zone, the African elephants! The pachyderms are the star attraction at the park.

The Grand Aviary is the highlight of this attraction and the best place for keen birdwatchers. Making the experience more interesting are the guides who help you spot various rare birds during the journey. Don’t forget to drop by the reptile house the next time you get the chance to visit the park.

• Hero animal: African Elephant
• Native animals: White Lion, Antelope, Meerkat, Gorilla, Lemur, Chimpanzee, Cheetah, Hyenas, Carpet Viper, Greater Flamingo and more.
• Must-visit places: Gorilla House, Reptile House, Chimpanzee House and The Grand Aviary

Asian Village Theatre

From tigers to gibbons, the Asian Village is home to popular native species from the Asian continent. Visitors learn exciting things about the animals from the park’s expert keepers and guides. The hero animal of this attraction is the Moon Bear, also known as the Asiatic black bear.

• Hero animal: Moon Bear
• Native animals: Gibbon, Southern Cassowary and Mandarin Duck.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dubai Safari Park (@dubaisafari)

Another attraction in Dubai Safari Park Al Warqa is the specially curated Kids Farm, a fun-filled combination of a farm and a petting zoo. In the Kids Farm – Dubai Safari Park, the little ones learn about traditional farm animals like chickens, goats and sheep. Kids can connect with nature, learn how to ride ponies and visit the bird aviary.

Wadi, or the Valley area, is where you can host a picnic or grab a quick bite from the restaurants inside Dubai Safari Park. Both restaurants overlook the river. So, you can watch ducks, peacocks, swans and even pelicans while enjoying your food!

Please note that outside food cannot be consumed within the park premises.

Dubai Safari Park Timings and Location

Dubai safari park timings.

The Dubai Safari Park opening hours are daily from 09:00 am to 05:00 pm. A tour of the whole park easily takes over 5 hours, so ensure you have enough time to explore everything when you plan your visit. 

Other Information

There are over 3,500 free parking spots in the park, with transport to and from the main gate.

Dubai Safari Park Contact Number

For any queries regarding Dubai Safari Park ticket price and timings, use the park’s toll-free number: +971-800-900. The official website also has a handy feedback form if you wish to leave any comments after a visit.

Sustainability and Conservation Efforts

There is more to the ambitious attraction than just entertainment. The park is built on a landfill site and, in doing so, has transformed the area into a reusable space. Furthermore, the park has adopted several eco-friendly and sustainable technologies, like harnessing solar energy to power its facilities and electric vehicles.

Other efforts include repurposing food and animal waste for use as fertiliser. Several recycling bins are placed throughout the facility for visitors to use. The park also makes efforts to protect endangered species through extensive scientific research.

The facility offers an immersive wildlife experience unlike any other in the UAE. A lot of work has gone into ensuring the animals here are comfortable. We recommend it as a fun day for all Dubai and UAE animal lovers!

FAQs ABOUT DUBAI SAFARI PARK

What is the dubai safari park tickets price.

The standard Dubai Safari Park ticket price (Day Pass) is AED 50 for adults and AED 20 for children. Ensure you take advantage of the Dubai Safari Park tickets and offers mentioned below if you plan to visit with family!

• Entry is free for kids under three and People of Determination.
• Differently-abled guests are expected to present their SANAD Cards upon entry and are allowed to bring two companions.
• Those looking to book Dubai Safari Park tickets online can do so via the park’s official website.

What are different tickets available?

The ticket price depends on the type you choose. Here’s an overview of the different choices to give you a good idea.

• A walking tour covering Al Wadi to African, Asian, and Explorer Villages
• Arabian Desert Safari (a 10-minute shuttle tour)
• Price: AED 50 for adults and AED 20 for child
• A transported tour to African, Asian, and Explorer Villages
• Arabian Desert Safari (a 10-minute electrical vehicle tour)
• Unlimited train rides
• Live shows reserved seats
• Price: AED 75 for adults and AED 45 for child
• Train service
• Guided Safari (a 35-minute bus tour)
• Price: AED 90 for adults and AED 35 for child
• Price: AED 110 for adults and AED 55 for child

Please note that you can upgrade your standard day pass ticket to a safari journey for an additional fee of AED 50 per adult and AED 20 per child. This, however, is subject to availability.

Book Dubai Safari Park tickets online well in advance to avoid inconveniences. E-tickets can be used for admission; printed tickets are NOT mandatory.

Can I use Dubai Safari Park packages?

Yes, visitors looking for a special experience can book any Safari Park Dubai packages. Each Dubai Safari Park package includes exciting perks.

• Chauffer-driven vehicle
• Personal guide
• Priority access to all facilities, exhibits
• Reserved seats for all bird shows
• Price (for 10 persons) – AED 2,500
• BTS – witness all the action
• Meet the animal caretakers
• Feed elephants and giraffes and brush White Rhinoceros
• Price (for 10 persons) – AED 1,450
• Ideal for groups
• Enjoy breakfast with giraffes or lions
• Price – AED 2,000
• Perfect for photographers
• Enjoy a 3-hour Safari Journey in a private bus to click pictures
• Price (for 3 persons) – AED 1,275

How to go to Dubai Safari Park by metro

For those who don’t have a car, the easiest way to get to Safari Park by public transportation is to take the Dubai Metro to the Creek Metro Station on the Green Line. From there you would need to take a taxi. The taxi ride from the Creek Metro to Dubai Safari Park is about 16 minutes.

Where is Dubai Safari Park located ?

It is located in Al Warqa’a 5 and is approximately a 12-minute drive from International City . You can easily access the park via Al Awir/ Ras Al Khor Road or Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street (D54). The park isn’t far for those living in villas for rent in Mirdif or flats for rent in Al Warqaa .

What should I wear during the visit?

Guests must dress respectfully. Comfortable clothing should cover your shoulders and knees.

What are prohibited items?

Pets, bicycles, scooters, skateboards and roller skates are not allowed. Also, avoid bringing balloons, balls or toy guns as they cause stress to animals.

What happened to the Dubai Zoo?

Many visitors ask what happened to the original Dubai Zoo in Jumeirah. The Dubai Zoo officially closed in 2018, and the animals were moved to the new Safari Park. If you are a frequent visitor to the zoo in Dubai, you will certainly enjoy this park.

What are the best family attractions in Dubai?

Looking for other leisurely pursuits in the city? Plan your next trip to Green Planet , which will be fun for the whole family. For more options, visit any of the popular theme parks in Dubai .

This brings us to the end of our review. You can also visit the various nature reserves in the UAE for a fun learning experience. For more updates on the city’s hottest tourist attractions, subscribe to MyBayut.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Very useful article thank you.

How much the ticket

Hi Ferose, is there any particular ticket you are looking for? There is a combo ticket allowing you access to the whole park for AED 85 (AED30 for children) and a Dubai Safari Park ticket for AED 50 (AED 20 for children) which allows you entry to all the villages excluding the Safari Village. We would recommend that you look at the Dubai Safari Park website for the latest information and choose the ticket that best suits you.

Dubai safari park online link is not working. How to buy the ticket ahead of my trip. Kindly advise.

Hi Muneer, The park is actually closed for renovation at the moment, but please do check the Dubai Safari website frequently for any updates on when will the park reopen. Best of luck!

When will the park reopen?

Hi Sab, There has not been a date announced for the reopening but we’re keeping our fingers crossed for anytime soon! Thank you for checking in!

Is the park open today

Hello Amar,

Thank you for getting in touch with us. Unfortunately, the Dubai Safari Park is still closed.

Is safari Park is open

The Dubai Safari Park is currently closed. We will be updating the article once the official reopening date is announced.

Is safari park open today?

Unfortunately, the park is closed until further notice.

Is the wild Safari park open now. And what is the timing. Either when it will open

Unfortunately, the Safari Park is currently closed. Opening dates for the park have not yet been announced by the management. We will be updating the post when this is communicated. Thank you!

Dubai safari park now open ? Today I can visit there ?

Unfortunately, Dubai Safari Park is currently closed. We will be updating the post with the updated opening dates for the park as soon as there is some official communication.

When is the opening of Dubai Sapari park? It’s was in the post that it’s already opened..would you please tell us when is the opening..thank you have a have a nice weekend.

The Safari Park is currently closed for renovation. It was open in 2018, till summer and has since then been closed for upgrades. We will be updating the post as soon as the authorities reveal the dates for the re-opening of Dubai Safari Park.

Hope this helps and have a great day!

Hello, Is the safari park open these days? If yes how much are the entry tickets?

Unfortunately, Dubai Safari Park is still closed for renovations. We will be updating the post once the official re-opening dates have been communicated.

Thank you and hope you have a great day!

Hi Friday Dubai Safari is open. From where to buy Tickets. Is there any tie with up with Banks Credit Cards to avail the discount. Thanks

As of now, the Safari Park is closed for renovations.

Is dubai safari park open?

Unfortunately, the park is still closed for renovation. We will be uploading the post as soon as the Safari Park authorities reveal the new opening dates.

Hi.dubai safari park is open tomorrow

The Dubai Safari Park is currently closed.

Thank you and have a great day!

What opening time ? Ticket rate detail? currently open?

Thank you for contacting us. The Safari Park is currently closed for renovation. We will be updating the post with all the latest details as soon as the official authorities confirm the reopening dates.

Still it is closed or open for visitors today I m planning to come over there

The Safari Park is still closed for renovations.

Thank you for reaching out to us and have a great day!

Hello, Dubai safari park is still open or closed.I am planning to come over there

The park is still closed. We will be updating the post when it is open.

Hello, is the park still closed?

Yes Maria, the park is still closed.

is Dubai Safari park open?

The Safari Park is not yet open. Thanks for writing to us!

Is it open now?

Thank you for writing to us. the Dubai Safari Park re-opening date has not yet been announced. We will update the post as soon as it is confirmed. If you are interested in something similar, the Al Ain zoo has just recently reopened.

Hope this helps!

Very nice article . How much is ticket with incudding bird show and all. Please

Hi Mohsin, Thank you for reaching out to us. We are very glad you liked the post. As for information on the price of shows at the park, please contact Dubai Safari Park at +971-800-900. Hope this helps. Have a great day!

Hi, in fact, I have several small cockatibirds that are family and very interdependent. I prefer to go back to nature and fly freely. Can I deliver to the Dubai Zoo? It is very important to me that it is safe. And very nice thank you

Hi Hanna, Thank you for reaching out to us. In answer to your query, we recommend contacting the Dubai Safari Park for more details regarding adoptions of pets:

Dubai Safari Park Contact: +971-800-900

We hope this helps. Have a great day!

Yes, it is! It reopened in October 2020 and is now open to visitors!

Does combo ticket mean entry of 2 adults?

Thanks for writing to us. The combo ticket refers to the combination of the entry ticket and the safari.

can you please send me the number as i have some questions

Hi Hanya, Thank you for getting in touch with us. You can contact the Dubai Safari Park at the following number:

– Dubai Safari Park (toll-free number): +971-800-900

Hope this helps. Have a great day!

Please I need to book tickets for today but I am not able to do it online, can I buy them at the door before entering please..thank you so much

Hi Dina, Thank you for getting in touch with us. We are very sorry that you are not able to get the tickets online. We recommend contacting Dubai Safari Park to determine whether they are offering tickets at the gate:

– Dubai Safari Park contact: +971-800-900

Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

Is the park still free for Over 65 ‘s

Hi Jo, Thank you for getting in touch with us. As per the Dubai Safari Park website, entry to the park is free for children under the age of three, people of determination (with SANAD card) plus two companions. Please contact the park to find out of the same applies to senior visitors over 65:

Dubai Safari Park contact: +971-800-900

Is safari park is open now ?

Hi Faiyaz, Thank you for getting in touch with us. The Dubai Safari Park is currently open. You can book online tickets for the day you plan to visit via the park’s official website. For further assistance, you can contact the park at the following number:

It’s a really helpful article . Planning to go here , can’t wait !

Hi, Thank you! We are glad that our blog on Dubai Safari Park was helpful. Enjoy your trip!

Will Dubai safari park open in April 2021?

Hi Eduard, thank you for writing to us.

Currently, Dubai Safari Park plans to continue operating as normal in April. Stay tuned to MyBayut for updates on any changes in the park’s operating hours!

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• Visit Dubai
• Places to visit

Dubai Safari Park

Sights & Attractions

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Dubai Safari Park?

How much are the tickets for Dubai Safari Park?

What are the opening hours of Dubai Safari Park?

Dubai Safari Park, Ras Al Khor Rd, Al Warqa 5 - Dubai

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Live experiences might be delayed or cancelled due to inclement weather or animal welfare.

قد يتم الغاء بعض الأنشطة او العروض الحية بسبب الظروف الجوية, tickets & packages.

Family Pass Promotion

Enjoy all-day access to Dubai Safari Park for a family of 5 including 2 adults and up to 3 children, with unlimited air-conditioned train shuttle service within the park.

• Access to 6 zones (African Village, Asian Village, Explorer Village, Arabian Desert, Kids Farm and Al Wadi)
• 10 mins Arabian Safari tour: a drive through experience observing local animal species roaming in their natural desert habitat.
• Access to live presentations as per announced schedule during your visit.
• Complimentary feeding sessions of selected animals as per announced schedule during your visit.
• Access to educational workshops and wildlife talks as per announced schedule during your visit.
• A wide variety of dining and retail options.
• Complimentary parking.

Day Pass ( Book Now )

All day access to Dubai Safari Park to explore the Al Wadi area, the African, Asian and Explorer Villages and the Kids Farm.  Also includes the following experiences: •    Train Service around the park throughout the day •    10-minute Arabian Desert Safari •    All Live Presentation throughout the day •    Animal feeding sessions throughout the day (Giraffe Feeding extra) •    Educational talks and workshops (as per the schedule)

Day Pass+  ( Book Now ) As per the Day Pass ticket PLUS:

• Train Service around the park throughout the day
• Reserved seating in all the Live Presentation throughout the day

Safari Journey  ( Book Now ) All day access to Dubai Safari Park to explore the Al Wadi area, the African, Asian and Explorer Villages and the Kids Farm.  Also includes the following experiences:

• 35 minute Guided Safari Journey bus tour
• 10 minute Arabian Desert Safari
• All Live Presentation throughout the day
• All animal feeding sessions throughout the day (Giraffe Feeding extra)
• Any educational talks and workshops (as per the schedule)

Safari Journey+  ( Book Now )

As per the Safari Journey ticket PLUS:

• Reserved seating in all the Live Presentation throughout the day

Free admission for:

- Children below 3 years old (Identity card is required upon entry)

- People of Determinations are eligible for free Day Pass ticket for self + 1 companion. (POD ticket can be availed at the tickets counter upon presentation of a valid POD card)

King of Safari ( Book Now )

This is a VIP luxury package provided to those who want an extra special experience. The guests will get treated like a “King” in a chauffeur driven vehicle along with a personal guide to provide them with all the knowledge and interesting facts about our incredible animal collection. They will also get priority access into all our amazing experiences and exhibits, as well as reserved seating at all our live presentations throughout the day.  (this package is for groups of up to 10 guests)

*Booking has to be made 3 days in advance, and it is subject to availabilty.

Behind the Scenes  ( Book Now )

An amazing and exclusive experience where our guests go “behind the scenes” here at Dubai Safari Park to witness where all the action happens. Our guests will get the chance to meet our animal caretakers and learn firsthand about the special care given to our incredible animal collection. This experience will also give our guests the opportunity to feed our Elephants or Giraffes as well as brushing the formidable White Rhinoceros. (this package is for groups of up to 10 guests)

Dine in the Wild  ( Book Now )

An incredibly unique experience where our guests get the opportunity to take a meal in the park in the company of one of our amazing and exotic animals (this package is for groups of up to 6 guests)

Jungle Capture  ( Book Now )

A unique exclusive experience for the animal photography lovers; spend up to 3 hours with our incredible animals and a private guide capturing those memorable photos that will last a lifetime (this package is for groups of up to 3 guests)

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