Private Desert Safari Abu Dhabi: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Every guest eventually asks the same question when booking: is a Private Desert Safari Abu Dhabi worth paying more for compared to a standard group tour? Here's an honest breakdown.
What Actually Changes
On our Private Desert Safari package, you get your own 4x4 vehicle and driver, dedicated pickup from your exact location, and a flexible pickup time — instead of a shared vehicle with strangers on a fixed group schedule.
Who Benefits Most
- Families with young children — the driver can pace dune bashing to match comfort levels
- Couples on a special occasion — more privacy throughout the ride
- Nervous first-timers — a gentler, more controlled introduction to dune bashing
- Groups with flexible schedules — pickup time can be adjusted more easily
What Stays The Same
You'll still join the shared desert camp for dinner, camel riding and evening shows — the private upgrade is specifically about the ride itself, which is the part most guests care about most.
Comparing To VIP
Private Desert Safari Abu Dhabi Price Breakdown
The private package costs AED 1000 per vehicle for up to 6 guests. Split six ways that is roughly AED 167 per person — close to the AED 149 shared Evening Desert Safari, but with your own driver and your own pace for dune bashing.
Timing and Pickup Flexibility
On a shared evening safari, pickup runs between 3 and 4 PM and drop-off is around 9 to 9:30 PM. On a private trip the timing flexes around you. The drive to the dunes at Al Khatim takes about 45 minutes from the city, so even a later start leaves plenty of time for the sunset, camel ride, sandboarding and BBQ dinner.
Private Safari or Romantic Dune Dinner?
For couples, it is also worth comparing with our Romantic Dune Dinner — AED 1500 for a fully private table for two in the dunes. Our VIP safari guide explains the mid-range option between shared and fully private.
If privacy at the camp (not just the ride) matters more to you, compare this against our VIP Desert Safari, which keeps a shared vehicle but adds private seating and dinner service at camp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a private desert safari good for families with young children?
Yes, it is our top recommendation for families since the driver can adjust the ride intensity just for your group.
Do I still get the camp dinner and shows on a private safari?
Yes, the private upgrade covers the vehicle and ride; you still join the shared camp for dinner and entertainment.
How much does a private desert safari cost in Abu Dhabi?
Our Private Desert Safari is AED 1000 per vehicle, not per person, and seats up to 6 guests.
How many people can join a private safari?
Up to 6 guests can share one private 4x4 vehicle, which often makes it cheaper per head than it first looks.
Can I choose my own pickup time on a private safari?
Yes. Private bookings come with flexible pickup from your exact location, instead of a fixed group schedule.