Dubai Desert Safari Solo Travelers 11 Secrets for Backpackers
Traveling alone is an act of bravery.
It is a declaration of independence.
You move at your own pace.
You eat what you want.
You see what you want.
But when it comes to the Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers, questions arise.
Is it safe?
Is it expensive?
Will I be the only single person in a sea of couples and families?
The answer is no.
Dubai is one of the most solo-friendly cities in the world.
And the desert is its playground.
For backpackers and solo adventurers, the dunes offer a unique escape.
It is a place to find silence away from the hostels.
It is a place to meet like-minded travelers in a shared Land Cruiser.
It is a place to challenge yourself with new activities.
In 2026, the trend of solo travel is exploding.
Operators are adapting.
They are creating shared packages.
They are removing single supplement fees.
This guide is your roadmap.
We will cover everything a solo traveler needs to know.
From booking the right seat to taking the perfect selfie without a tripod.
We will discuss budget hacks to save your Dirhams.
We will talk about safety for solo female travelers.
If you are ready to conquer the sand alone (but never lonely), read on.
Trust https://royaldesertadventures.ae/ to be your partner in this journey.
Let’s pack our bags and hit the dunes.
Why the Desert is Perfect for Soloists
The desert is vast.
It puts things in perspective.
For a solo traveler, it is the ultimate reflective space.
Sitting on a high dune watching the sunset is a spiritual experience.
You don’t need someone next to you to validate it.
In fact, the silence is better enjoyed alone.
A Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers allows you to disconnect.
You can leave the noise of the hostel dorm behind.
You can escape the busy metro.
But it is also social.
The structure of the safari forces interaction.
You are in a car with 5 other people.
You sit at shared tables at the camp.
It is impossible not to make friends.
You bond over the thrill of the dune bashing.
You laugh together when someone falls off a sandboard.
It is the perfect mix of “me time” and “we time”.
The Cost Factor: Avoiding the Single Supplement
The biggest fear for solo travelers is cost.
Many tours charge extra if you are alone.
They call it the “Single Supplement”.
In a Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers, you can avoid this.
How?
By booking a shared tour.
Do not book a private car.
A private car costs 800+ AED.
A shared seat costs 150-250 AED.
You pay for the seat, not the vehicle.
Operators like https://royaldesertadventures.ae/ are great for this.
They group solo travelers together.
They ensure the car is full so the cost is split.
This saves you huge amounts of money.
You get the same luxury experience.
You get the same food.
You get the same shows.
But you pay a fraction of the price.
Always check if the price is “per person” or “per car”.
Book the “per person” rate.
Safety for Solo Female Travelers
Is Dubai safe for women?
Yes.
It is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities globally.
Harassment is strictly punished by law.
However, the desert is a remote place.
For a female on a Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers, standard precautions apply.
Dress modestly.
You don’t need to cover everything, but avoid bikinis.
Knee-length shorts and t-shirts are fine.
This respects the local culture and avoids unwanted attention.
Sit in the front or middle of the car.
The drivers are professionals.
They are vetted and licensed.
But if you feel uncomfortable, speak up.
Or ask to sit with a family.
Most camps are well-lit and guarded.
You are never truly “alone” in the wilderness.
There are always guides and staff around.
It is a very safe environment to explore.
Meeting People: The Shared Land Cruiser
The Land Cruiser is your social hub.
The drive to the desert takes 45 minutes.
That is 45 minutes to talk to your car-mates.
“Where are you from?”
“Is this your first time in Dubai?”
These simple questions start friendships.
You might be sitting next to a couple from Germany.
Or a family from India.
Or another solo backpacker from Australia.
By the time you reach the dunes, you are a team.
You scream together on the roller coaster ride.
You help each other take photos.
Often, solo travelers end up eating dinner with their car group.
It happens naturally.
You don’t have to force it.
The shared adversity of the bumpy ride bonds you.
Hostel Pickups vs Hotel Pickups
Where do you get picked up?
If you are a backpacker, you are likely in a hostel.
Or a budget hotel in Deira or Bur Dubai.
Most operators offer pickup from anywhere in Dubai.
However, some budget tours have specific pickup points.
They might ask you to come to a mall.
This saves them time.
And it might save you money.
“Centralized Pickup” is cheaper than “Door-to-Door”.
If you want to save 20-30 AED, choose the bus pickup option.
You take the metro to the meeting point.
Then you hop on a bus to the desert.
Then you transfer to a 4×4.
It is a bit more hassle.
But for a Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers on a budget, it works.
If you want comfort, pay the extra for hotel pickup.
https://dubaidesertsafarie.com/ offers both options.
Sandboarding: The Solo Sport
Sandboarding is perfect for singles.
You don’t need a partner.
You just need a board and a dune.
It is included in almost every safari.
Grab a board.
Wax the bottom.
Climb the hill.
Ride down.
It is exhausting to walk back up.
But it is great exercise.
If you fall, you laugh at yourself.
Strangers will cheer for you.
It is a great icebreaker.
Ask someone to hold your phone and film you.
Then offer to do the same for them.
This is how you make connections.
“Can you record my run?”
“Sure, if you record mine.”
Simple. Effective.
Photography Hacks for Solos
You want epic photos.
But you don’t have an “Instagram Husband”.
What do you do?
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The Guide: Your driver is an expert photographer. They take photos every day. Hand them your phone. They know the angles. They know the lighting. Don’t be shy to ask.
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The Tripod: Bring a small, flexible tripod (like a GorillaPod). You can set it up on the sand. Use the timer function.
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The Selfie Stick: It is cheesy, but it works. Especially for wide-angle shots of the landscape behind you.
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Strangers: Look for someone with a big camera. They usually know how to take a good photo. Ask nicely. Offer to take one for them first.
A Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers is visually stunning.
The red dunes.
The sunset.
The camels.
Don’t leave without capturing it.
Camel Riding Alone
Riding a camel is a must.
Camels are usually tied in a caravan.
You sit on one.
Someone else sits on the one behind.
You can chat with the person behind you.
Or you can just enjoy the view.
Being high up on a camel gives you a vantage point.
You can see the vastness of the desert.
It is a peaceful moment.
You don’t need to talk.
Just feel the rhythm of the animal.
It is meditative.
It connects you to the history of the Bedouins.
They traveled these sands alone for centuries.
You are following in their footsteps.
Dining at the Camp: Community Tables
Dinner is a buffet.
The seating is usually on low cushions at long tables.
This layout is designed for community.
You will likely be seated with your car group.
But if you want to meet others, you can.
Ask, “Is this seat taken?”
People are relaxed in the desert.
They are open to conversation.
Share the hummus.
Pass the bread.
Talk about your travels.
Backpackers always have stories.
“I just came from Oman.”
“I’m heading to Thailand next.”
The desert camp is a crossroads of cultures.
A Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers is a networking event.
You might find a travel buddy for your next leg.
The Morning Safari Alternative
If you are not a party person.
If you don’t like loud music or belly dancing.
Choose the Morning Safari.
It is quieter.
It focuses on nature and adventure.
It is dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding.
No big buffet.
No shows.
Just you and the desert.
It is cheaper.
It leaves your evening free.
This is popular with serious solo travelers.
Those who want the essence without the fluff.
You are back in the city by 12:00 PM.
You can spend the afternoon exploring Old Dubai.
Check morning schedules at https://hafiztourism.com/.
Overnight Camping for the Brave
For the ultimate solo adventure, stay the night.
The Overnight Safari is magical.
After the dinner crowd leaves, the camp goes silent.
You are left with a small group.
Maybe 5 or 10 people.
You sit by the bonfire.
You stare at the stars.
This is where deep conversations happen.
You sleep in a tent.
It is safe.
It is secure.
Waking up to the sunrise alone is powerful.
It is just you and the world.
You feel a sense of accomplishment.
“I slept in the desert alone.”
It builds resilience.
It is a highlight for many backpackers.
What to Pack in Your Daypack
You don’t want to carry your big backpack.
Leave the 60L bag at the hostel.
Bring a small daypack.
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Water Bottle: Essential. Reusable is best.
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Power Bank: Your phone will die from taking photos.
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Jacket: The desert gets cold at night. Even in summer, the AC in the car is strong.
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Scarf/Shemagh: Useful for sun protection and sandstorms.
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Cash: For tips, souvenirs, or quad biking.
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Sunscreen/Sunglasses: The sun is brutal.
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Camera: Obviously.
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Sanitizer: Good for before eating.
Keep it light.
You have to carry it.
Don’t bring valuables like your laptop.
Sand destroys electronics.
Budget Breakdown for Backpackers
How much will you spend?
Ticket: 150 – 250 AED (Standard Shared).
Quad Bike: 150 AED (Optional).
Drinks: Water/Soda is free. Alcohol is paid (30-50 AED per beer).
Souvenirs: 20-50 AED (Sand bottle, magnet).
Tips: 20-50 AED for the driver.
Total basic cost: Approx 200-300 AED ($55 – $80).
This is very reasonable for a 6-hour tour with dinner.
It is cheaper than a night out in Dubai Marina.
It is value for money.
You get transport, activity, and food.
Compare prices at https://royaldesertadventures.ae/.
Avoiding Tourist Traps
As a solo traveler, you are a target for upsells.
“Hey my friend, want a special photo?”
“Want a VIP table?”
“Want a quad bike?”
Be firm but polite.
“No, thank you.”
You don’t need the VIP table.
The standard seating is fine.
You don’t need the photo with the eagle if it costs 50 AED.
(Unless you really want it).
Stick to your budget.
Don’t let them pressure you.
The basic package is enough.
It includes everything you need.
The upsells are just extras.
Eco-Conscious Backpacking
Backpackers often care about the planet.
Desert safaris can be high impact.
Choose operators that care.
https://royaldesertadventures.ae/ follows sustainable practices.
They clean up the camps.
They maintain their cars to reduce emissions.
They respect the wildlife.
Do your part.
Don’t throw cigarette butts in the sand.
Don’t leave plastic bottles behind.
Refill your water bottle at the camp dispenser.
Respect the local culture.
Travel lightly.
The Digital Nomad Factor
Can you work from the desert?
Not really.
There is mobile signal (4G/5G) in most places.
But it can be spotty in the deep dunes.
And you don’t want to be on a Zoom call during dune bashing.
Take the evening off.
Tell your clients you are unreachable.
Enjoy the digital detox.
Post your stories later.
Focus on the experience.
If you absolutely must check emails, do it at the camp.
The signal is usually stable there.
Cultural Immersion for Solos
You are there to learn.
Solo travelers are often more open to learning.
Talk to the staff.
Many are from different countries.
But the Emirati guides (if available) love to share stories.
Ask about the coffee.
Ask about the falcon.
Visit the heritage corner in the camp.
Watch the lady making bread.
Try the henna.
Don’t just sit on your phone.
Engage.
This adds depth to your Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers.
It turns a fun trip into a cultural lesson.
Handling Motion Sickness Alone
If you get car sick, tell the driver.
Sit in the front seat.
Take a pill 30 minutes before.
Don’t eat a heavy meal before the drive.
If you feel sick, ask to stop.
The driver will understand.
Since you are alone, you might feel shy to ask.
Don’t be.
It is better to stop for 5 minutes than to get sick in the car.
The other passengers will thank you.
Quad Biking: To Do or Not To Do?
Is it worth the extra money?
If you love driving, yes.
It gives you control.
You ride a bike in a fenced area or open desert.
It is thrilling.
But it is expensive.
If you are on a tight backpacker budget, skip it.
Dune bashing is enough adrenaline.
Sandboarding is free.
Save the money for a better dinner in the city.
Or for a ticket to the Burj Khalifa.
Why Royal Desert Adventures is Solo-Friendly
We love solo travelers.
We understand your needs.
We don’t charge hidden fees.
We group you with fun people.
Our drivers are friendly and protective.
They will ensure you get back to your hotel safely.
We offer flexible cancellation policies.
We know backpacker plans change.
We are the reliable choice for your Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers.
Conclusion
Traveling alone does not mean being alone.
The Dubai desert is a welcoming place.
It embraces the solitary wanderer.
It offers a space to breathe, to scream, to laugh.
A Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers is an empowering experience.
It proves you can navigate the world on your own terms.
It fills your camera roll with incredible memories.
It fills your heart with the warmth of Arabian hospitality.
So, don’t hesitate.
Don’t wait for a friend to join you.
Go now.
Book that seat.
Climb that dune.
The desert is waiting for you.
Visit https://royaldesertadventures.ae/ to start your adventure.
Check options at https://dubaidesertsafarie.com/ and https://hafiztourism.com/.
You are the captain of your journey.
Steer towards the sand.
See you there.
Solo Traveler Budget Sheet (Estimates)
| Item | Cost (AED) | Notes |
| Safari Ticket | 150 – 200 | Includes dinner & transfer |
| Metro/Bus | 10 – 15 | To pickup point (if applicable) |
| Driver Tip | 20 – 50 | Optional but nice |
| Souvenir | 20 | Sand bottle / Magnet |
| Quad Bike | 150 | Optional Add-on |
| Alcohol | 40 | Per beer (Optional) |
| Total | ~250 AED | Great Value Day Out |
20 FAQs with Long Answers
1. Is a Dubai Desert Safari safe for a solo female traveler?
Yes, a Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers is very safe for women. Dubai is known for its strict safety laws and low crime rate. Tour operators like https://royaldesertadventures.ae/ use licensed, background-checked drivers. You will be placed in a shared car with other tourists, often families or couples, so you are never isolated with just the driver. The camps are public spaces with security and staff. Standard precautions like dressing modestly and keeping valuables close apply, but generally, it is a worry-free experience.
2. Do I have to pay a “Single Supplement” fee?
In most cases, no. If you book a shared desert safari, you pay the standard per-person rate. The operator fills the remaining seats in the 4×4 with other guests. You only pay a single supplement or a higher fee if you specifically request a private car for just yourself. To keep costs down, always choose the “sharing basis” option when booking your ticket.
3. How can I meet people during the safari?
The safari is naturally social. You will spend about an hour driving to the desert in a car with 5-6 other people. This is the best time to break the ice. Ask where they are from or about their trip. During the dune bashing, the shared excitement brings people together. At the camp, seating is often at long communal tables. You can easily strike up conversations with your neighbors while waiting for the buffet or watching the shows.
4. What if I don’t want to do dune bashing?
If you are prone to motion sickness or just don’t like rough rides, you can still enjoy the safari. You should book a package that offers a “direct to camp” option. In this case, a standard bus or van will take you straight to the desert camp via a flat road, skipping the dune bashing. You will meet the rest of the group at the camp for the dinner and entertainment. Make sure to specify this preference when booking.
5. Can I leave my backpack in the car?
Yes, you can usually leave your main backpack or non-essential items in the car during the dune bashing and camp activities. The same car and driver stay with you throughout the tour (in most standard packages). However, do not leave expensive valuables like passports, wallets, or laptops unattended. Carry your small daypack with valuables with you. The drivers are trustworthy, but it is better to be safe.
6. Is the food included suitable for vegetarians/vegans?
Yes, the BBQ dinner buffet always includes vegetarian options. You will typically find hummus, salad, tabbouleh, pasta, rice, lentil soup (dal), and vegetable curry. Vegan options are also available within these choices (salads, rice, bread). If you have strict dietary requirements, it is a good idea to bring a few snacks just in case, but generally, you will not go hungry.
7. What should I wear as a solo traveler?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. Cotton or linen is best for the heat. Long trousers are recommended to protect your legs from the sun, sand, and potential insect bites, and they are more culturally respectful. A t-shirt or light shirt is fine. Bring a light jacket or hoodie, as the desert temperature drops significantly after sunset, and it can get chilly in the evening. Closed shoes are better than sandals for walking on hot sand.
8. Will the driver speak English?
Yes, almost all safari drivers and guides in Dubai speak English. It is the common language of tourism. They can answer your questions, explain the itinerary, and help you with any issues. Some drivers also speak other languages like Arabic, Hindi, Urdu, or Russian. If you need a specific language guide, you might need to book a private tour, but for English, you are perfectly fine.
9. Can I ask the driver to take photos of me?
Absolutely! The drivers are used to this request. In fact, many of them are quite skilled at taking photos for tourists. They know the best spots on the dunes and how to position you against the sun. Since you are solo, don’t hesitate to hand your phone to the driver or a fellow passenger and ask for a photo. They are usually happy to help.
10. Is alcohol available for purchase?
Yes, most desert camps have a bar where you can purchase alcohol (beer, wine, spirits). It is not included in the standard ticket price. You must pay cash or sometimes card. However, please note that during Islamic holidays or “dry days” mandated by the government, no alcohol is served in the camps. It is best to check the calendar or ask the operator before you go if this is important to you.
11. How much cash should I bring?
You should bring around 100-200 AED in cash. While the ticket might be prepaid online, you will need cash for tips (driver/waiters), buying souvenirs at the camp, paying for a quad bike ride (if not pre-booked), or buying alcohol. Small bills are useful for tipping. Some vendors might accept cards, but the signal in the desert can be unreliable, so cash is king.
12. Can I book a morning safari instead?
Yes, morning safaris are a great option for solo travelers who want to focus on the activities rather than the dinner/show. Morning tours usually last 4 hours (8 AM – 12 PM). They include dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding. They are often cheaper and leave your afternoon and evening free for other explorations. It is a pure adrenaline hit without the social camping element.
13. Is sandboarding difficult to do alone?
No, sandboarding is very easy and safe. You don’t need a partner. You simply strap the board to your feet (or sit on it) and slide down the dune. If you fall, you land on soft sand. It is a lot of fun. Since you are solo, you can do it at your own pace without worrying about holding anyone up. It is a great workout climbing back up the dune!
14. What happens if I have a medical emergency?
The tour operators are trained to handle emergencies. Drivers carry mobile phones and can contact emergency services. First aid kits are available in the vehicles and at the camp. The desert is not as isolated as it looks; you are usually within 30-45 minutes of a main road or clinic. If you have a specific medical condition, carry your medication and inform the driver at the start of the tour.
15. Can I extend my trip to stay overnight?
Yes, you can book an “Overnight Safari”. This extends the evening safari. After the other guests leave at 9 PM, you stay at the camp. You get a tent, sleeping bag, and mattress. You can sit by the bonfire and sleep under the stars. In the morning, you get breakfast before being driven back. This is a fantastic experience for solo travelers seeking solitude and adventure.
16. Are there charging points at the camp?
There might be a few charging points in the main communal area, but they are often occupied or slow. There are definitely no charging points on the dunes! It is highly recommended to bring a fully charged high-capacity power bank. Your phone battery will drain quickly from taking photos and searching for signal. Being self-sufficient with power is crucial for a solo traveler.
17. How do I get to the pickup point if I’m in a hostel?
If you booked a “Centralized Pickup” (bus), you will need to make your own way to the meeting point (usually a landmark like Deira City Centre or Spinneys Burjuman). You can use the Dubai Metro or a taxi/Careem to get there. It is cheap and easy. If you booked “Hotel Pickup” (4×4), the driver will come directly to your hostel lobby. Just make sure to provide the accurate hostel name and location pin when booking.
18. Is the camel ride ethical?
https://royaldesertadventures.ae/ partners with camps that treat their animals well. The camels are well-fed and rested. The ride is short (usually a few minutes loop) so the animals are not overworked. However, as with any animal tourism, it is a personal choice. You are not forced to ride. You can simply pet the camel or take a photo next to it if you prefer not to ride.
19. Can I start a blog/vlog during the trip?
Yes! A Dubai Desert Safari for Solo Travelers provides amazing content. You can film your experience. Just be respectful of other guests’ privacy—don’t film people without their permission, especially local women. The drivers are usually happy to be in your vlog if you ask. The scenery makes for incredible footage.
20. Why should I book with Royal Desert Adventures?
Booking with https://royaldesertadventures.ae/ ensures you are with a reputable, reliable company. For a solo traveler, reliability is safety. You don’t want to be stranded or scammed. They offer transparent pricing with no hidden single supplements for shared tours. Their drivers are professional and friendly, acting as excellent hosts for solo guests. They take care of the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.
