When booking a Dubai Desert Safari, one of the first choices you’ll make is whether to go for a private or shared experience. Both offer their own perks and come with different price tags. The key is knowing which one offers better value for your travel style, budget, and expectations.
Let’s explore the differences to help you make the right choice.
1. What Is a Shared Desert Safari?
A shared desert safari is when you join a group of travelers in a shared 4x4 vehicle or minibus. It's the most affordable and popular option, ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.
???? Price Range:
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AED 100 – AED 300 per person
✅ What’s Included:
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Shared hotel pickup and drop-off
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Dune bashing (20–30 mins)
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Short camel ride
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Sandboarding
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BBQ dinner
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Live entertainment (belly dance, fire show, Tanoura)
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Shisha (in common area), henna, soft drinks
???? Pros:
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Lower cost
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Great for meeting other travelers
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Covers all main activities
???? Cons:
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Less privacy
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Fixed schedule
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Longer pickup/drop-off due to multiple stops
2. What Is a Private Desert Safari?
A private desert safari is a more personalized experience. You and your group get an exclusive 4x4 vehicle, custom timing, and sometimes VIP services.
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AED 600 – AED 1500+ per vehicle
(For 1–6 people, depending on package)
✅ What’s Included:
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Private vehicle and driver
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Flexible pickup/drop-off timing
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Personalized dune bashing session
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Option to skip or spend more time on certain activities
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Priority access at the campsite
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Optional VIP seating and table service
???? Pros:
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Full privacy
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Ideal for families with kids or elderly
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Great for romantic occasions
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Less waiting, more control
???? Cons:
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Higher price
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Fewer chances to interact with other travelers
3. Price Comparison: Private vs Shared
| Feature | Shared Safari | Private Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Per Person) | AED 100–300 | AED 200–500+ (split cost) |
| Privacy | ❌ | ✅ |
| Schedule Flexibility | ❌ | ✅ |
| Group Size | Up to 6 per vehicle | Your group only |
| Comfort | Moderate | High |
| Special Occasions | Not ideal | Perfect for proposals, birthdays |
4. Which One Offers Better Value?
| Your Situation | Recommended Option |
|---|---|
| Traveling Solo or Couple (Budget) | Shared Safari (AED 120–200) |
| Small Family or Group (3–6 people) | Private Safari (split cost = better value) |
| Celebrating an Occasion | Private Safari (customized experience) |
| Wanting to Meet New People | Shared Safari |
| Traveling with Kids or Seniors | Private Safari (comfort & flexibility) |
5. Tips to Maximize Value
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???? Compare reviews: Not all operators are equal.
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???? Ask for customization: Some private tours allow add-ons or theme setups (e.g. birthday cake, flowers).
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???? Split private tour cost: A group of 5–6 people can make a private safari more affordable than individual shared bookings.
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???? Book directly with operators to get better rates and avoid platform commissions.
Final Thoughts
If you're on a tight budget or just want a taste of the desert, a shared safari is great value. But for comfort, personalization, and special moments, a private safari is well worth the extra cost — especially when shared with a small group.
???? Pro Tip: If you're a group of 4–6, book a private safari and split the cost — you’ll get VIP treatment for almost the same price as a mid-range shared tour.