Desert safaris are one of the most popular activities in the UAE, offering visitors thrilling experiences and a chance to explore the stunning desert landscapes. While Dubai desert safari is famous worldwide, many travelers are discovering Desert safari Sharjah as a unique and less crowded alternative. Sharjah’s desert offers an authentic and peaceful desert experience with all the excitement of Dubai’s adventures but often at more affordable rates and with fewer tourists.
In this article, we will explore why Desert safari Sharjah is becoming a popular choice, how it compares to Dubai desert safari, and what you need to know before you embark on this desert adventure. We’ll also discuss the best desert safari packages, what to wear, and how to enjoy a self drive desert safari in this beautiful region.
Why Choose Desert Safari Sharjah?
Many visitors opt for the traditional Dubai desert safari for its glamour and well-known camps. However, Desert safari Sharjah offers several benefits that make it an excellent alternative.
- Less Crowded: Sharjah’s desert has fewer tourists, giving you a more private and peaceful experience.
- Natural Beauty: The deserts around Sharjah, such as the Al Faqa desert and Al Khatim desert, are less commercialized and offer untouched natural beauty.
- Lower Prices: The desert safari Sharjah packages are often cheaper compared to Dubai, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Authentic Experience: Sharjah offers a more traditional desert experience with fewer modern distractions.
Desert Safari Sharjah vs Dubai Desert Safari
While both Sharjah and Dubai offer amazing desert safaris, there are some differences worth noting:
| Feature | Dubai Desert Safari | Desert Safari Sharjah |
| Popularity | Very popular, crowded | Less crowded, more private |
| Package Options | Many luxury and mid-range packages | Budget-friendly and basic options |
| Desert Landscape | Famous for iconic dunes | Natural and quiet desert areas |
| Activities | Dune bashing, camel rides, quad biking | Dune bashing, quad biking, traditional camps |
| Evening Entertainment | Large camps with shows, BBQ | Smaller camps, local cultural experiences |
Best Desert Safari Packages in Sharjah
When planning your Desert safari Sharjah experience, you will find various desert safari packages tailored to different interests and budgets. Popular options include:
- Morning Desert Safari: Ideal for those who want to enjoy cooler temperatures and a peaceful sunrise in the desert.
- Evening Desert Safari: Enjoy dune bashing, quad biking, cultural shows, and a BBQ dinner under the stars.
- Self Drive Desert Safari: For adventurers who want to explore at their own pace with rental 4×4 vehicles.
- Family-Friendly Packages: Customized safaris that focus on safe and relaxing experiences for families with kids.
Most packages include transportation, snacks, and a guide. Some also offer extras like quad bike rides or camel rides.
Exploring Al Faqa Desert and Al Khatim Desert
The Al Faqa desert and Al Khatim desert are two of Sharjah’s hidden gems for desert adventures. These areas are excellent for visitors looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience.
- Al Faqa Desert: Located near the border of Dubai and Sharjah, this desert is famous for its smooth dunes and quiet surroundings. It is perfect for those who want to enjoy a calm morning desert safari or go quad biking in peace.
- Al Khatim Desert: Known for its challenging dunes, the Al Khatim desert is popular among thrill-seekers and 4×4 enthusiasts. It’s a great spot for a desert safari self drive or dune bashing adventure.
Both deserts provide beautiful landscapes ideal for photography and relaxing desert walks.
Self Drive Desert Safari in Sharjah
For those who love adventure and freedom, the desert safari self drive option in Sharjah is highly recommended. Unlike traditional guided tours, self-drive safaris let you explore the desert at your own pace.
Benefits of Self Drive Desert Safari
- Freedom to choose your route and stops
- Experience real desert driving challenges
- Opportunity for personalized adventure, including quad biking stops
- Typically cheaper than guided tours
Tips for a Successful Self Drive Desert Safari
- Choose a reliable 4×4 vehicle suitable for desert terrain.
- Familiarize yourself with desert driving techniques to handle dunes safely.
- Carry enough water, snacks, and safety equipment.
- Wear appropriate clothing and protective gear (see next section).
- Always inform someone about your route and expected return time.
What to Wear in Desert Safari Sharjah and Dubai
Choosing the right outfit is important for your comfort and safety during any desert safari, whether in Dubai or Sharjah.
Clothing Tips
- Wear light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool.
- Long sleeves and trousers protect you from sunburn and sand.
- Choose light colors to reflect heat rather than dark colors that absorb it.
- Closed shoes or sturdy sneakers are best for walking on sand and riding quad bikes.
- Bring a scarf or bandana to cover your face from blowing sand, especially during quad biking or dune bashing.
What to Avoid
- Avoid tight clothing or synthetic fabrics that trap heat.
- Steer clear of sandals or open-toe shoes during activities.
- Heavy makeup and jewelry can be uncomfortable and get damaged by sand.
Desert Safari Dubai Price and Sharjah Comparison
The desert safari Dubai price per person varies based on the type of package and included activities. On average:
- Morning safaris cost around AED 120-180 per person.
- Evening safaris with dinner and shows range from AED 150-300.
- Luxury or private safaris can go up to AED 500 or more.
In contrast, desert safari Sharjah packages tend to be cheaper, often starting around AED 100 per person for basic safaris. This makes Sharjah a great alternative for budget travelers who want the thrill of the desert without the high cost.
Popular Activities in Desert Safari Sharjah
Whether you choose Dubai or Sharjah, the desert offers many exciting activities:
- Dune Bashing: Experience the adrenaline rush as skilled drivers take you over high dunes.
- Quad Biking: Rent a quad bike and enjoy riding across the sandy landscape. It’s a popular activity in both Dubai and Sharjah.
- Camel Riding: Try traditional camel rides to explore the desert at a slower pace.
- Sandboarding: Slide down the dunes for a fun and unique experience.
- Cultural Experiences: Enjoy traditional dance shows, henna painting, and local food during evening safaris.
How to Choose the Right Desert Safari Package
When selecting your desert safari packages, consider the following:
- Duration: Do you prefer a short morning trip or a full evening with dinner and entertainment?
- Activities: Are you interested in quad biking, camel rides, or just relaxing in a desert camp?
- Budget: Compare prices for similar packages in Dubai and Sharjah.
- Group Size: Some tours cater to large groups, others to small private parties.
- Self Drive Option: For adventure lovers, consider the desert safari Dubai self drive or Sharjah self drive options.
Final Thoughts: Why Desert Safari Sharjah Is Worth Trying
While Dubai desert safari remains iconic, Desert safari Sharjah is a refreshing alternative that offers tranquility, affordability, and authentic desert experiences. Whether you want to go on a morning desert safari, enjoy exciting quad biking, or try a self drive desert safari, Sharjah’s deserts provide beautiful and less commercialized settings.
Sharjah’s desert safaris, including trips to the Al Faqa desert and Al Khatim desert, deliver memorable adventures that can rival Dubai’s offerings at a more relaxed pace and lower price. Don’t forget to dress comfortably and prepare for the desert climate with the right Dubai desert safari outfit for the best experience.
