You've decided on a desert safari. Great choice. Then you see two options, standard and VIP, and the VIP costs more. Is it actually better, or just a fancier name?
We run both, so here's our honest answer to "is a VIP desert safari worth it?": for some people the VIP upgrade makes the evening, and for others the standard safari is perfect. This guide breaks down the real differences so you can decide if a VIP desert safari in Abu Dhabi is right for you.
What's the Same in Both?
First, the good news. The core experience is the same whichever you choose:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Dune bashing in a 4x4 Land Cruiser
- Sunset photo stop on the dunes
- Camel ride and sandboarding
- Henna and traditional dress photos
- Tanoura, fire and belly dance shows
- BBQ dinner
So you won't miss out on any of the adventure with the standard package. The difference is all about how you experience the evening at camp.
Where VIP Is Different
1. Seating
Standard: Shared majlis seating with cushions and low tables around the camp. Seats are open and filled as guests arrive.
VIP: A reserved, more spacious seating area, usually closer to the stage with a better view of the shows. More comfortable cushions or sofas, and more privacy.
2. Dinner Service
Standard: A buffet. You queue with other guests and help yourself.
VIP: Table service. Starters, mains and desserts are brought to you, so there's no queue and no balancing plates. VIP menus also usually include extra dishes.
3. Welcome and Drinks
Standard: Arabic coffee, dates, water and soft drinks.
VIP: All of the above plus welcome drinks, fresh fruit and sometimes mocktails or premium beverages.
4. Priority Activities
Standard: Camel rides, sandboarding and henna on a first-come, first-served basis. In peak season there can be short queues.
VIP: Priority access, so you spend less time waiting.
5. Personal Attention
Standard: Friendly camp staff serving the whole camp.
VIP: A dedicated host looking after your area.
6. Group Size
VIP guests often travel in smaller groups or fewer people per vehicle.
Quick Comparison
- Seating: Standard is shared majlis. VIP is a reserved premium zone near the stage.
- Dinner: Standard is a self-serve buffet. VIP is served at your table.
- Drinks: Standard has soft drinks, water, tea and coffee. VIP adds welcome drinks and fresh fruit.
- Activities: Standard is first come, first served. VIP gets priority access.
- Service: Standard has general camp staff. VIP has a dedicated host.
- Price: Standard from AED 149. VIP costs more for the extra service.
When VIP Is Worth It
We'd recommend the VIP upgrade if:
- You're celebrating. Honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays and proposals feel much more special with a reserved space and table service.
- You're travelling with older parents or young kids. Comfortable seating and no buffet queues make a big difference.
- You visit in peak season. From November to March, camps get busy. VIP gives you a calmer space within a lively camp.
- You've done a standard safari before and want a different experience.
- You're hosting clients or guests you want to impress.
When Standard Is Perfect
The standard evening safari is a great choice if:
- You're on a budget and want the full experience at the best price.
- You love a lively atmosphere and don't mind sharing.
- You're a group of friends who'll spend most of the evening moving around anyway.
- It's your first safari and you mainly want to try everything.
Honestly, most guests on the standard safari have a wonderful time. The VIP isn't about doing more. It's about doing it more comfortably.
What About Private Desert Safari?
VIP and private are different things. VIP upgrades your camp experience. Private gives you your own vehicle and driver, with flexible timing. For the ultimate evening, you can combine both: a private 4x4 plus VIP seating at camp.
Is VIP Worth the Extra Cost?
If comfort, space and service matter to you, or the occasion is special, yes. The price difference covers a much more relaxed evening. If your main goal is adventure and you're happy with a buffet, the standard safari gives you everything that makes the desert great.
What Guests Say After Upgrading
We often hear the same feedback from guests who chose VIP: "We didn't realise how much nicer it would be to not queue for food." Small things add up. Having a reserved seat means you can wander off to ride a camel without worrying about losing your spot. Table service means your food is hot and you can actually talk. A dedicated host means someone notices when your drink is empty.
On the other hand, guests on our standard safari regularly tell us it was the best night of their holiday. The atmosphere at a busy camp has its own energy: people from all over the world sharing tables, joining the belly dance and cheering the fire show. There's no wrong answer.
How to Decide in 30 Seconds
Ask yourself three questions:
- Is this a special occasion? If yes, go VIP.
- Will anyone in your group struggle with queues or low seating? If yes, go VIP.
- Is getting the best price your top priority? If yes, go standard.
If you answered no to the first two and yes to the third, the standard safari is perfect for you.
Can You Upgrade on the Day?
Sometimes, if VIP seats are available. But in peak season they often sell out, so it's best to decide when you book. You can always message us on WhatsApp to check availability.
So, Is a VIP Desert Safari Worth It?
For celebrations, families with older relatives and anyone who values comfort, a VIP desert safari is worth it. For budget-conscious travellers and groups who love a lively crowd, the standard safari delivers everything that makes the desert special.
FAQs
Does VIP include more activities than standard?
No. The activities are the same. VIP adds comfort, priority and service.
Is VIP seating separate from other guests?
Yes. It's a reserved area within the camp, though the camp itself is shared.
Can I add a quad bike to the VIP safari?
Yes. Choose our VIP Desert Safari + ATV package.
Is a VIP desert safari worth it for kids?
Yes, especially for younger children. Comfortable seating and table service make the evening much easier for parents.
Book Your Safari
Whichever you choose, you'll be in good hands. Book your VIP Desert Safari or Evening Desert Safari with Desert Safari Dunes on WhatsApp at +971 50 930 0406 or email booking@desertsafaridunes.com.
