You’ve seen the photos on Instagram: flowing dresses on pristine dunes, private dinners under the stars, and not a crowded bus in sight. You want to experience the magic of the Arabian desert, but you don’t want the “mass tourist” experience. You want privacy, comfort, and a touch of royalty.
If you are searching for a “VIP desert tour Dubai” or a “royal desert safari Dubai“, you are looking for more than just a ride in the sand. You are looking for an elevated experience.
But here is the problem: the term “VIP” is often overused in Dubai. Some operators slap a “VIP” sticker on a standard package and charge double. Others promise luxury but deliver plastic chairs and cold food.
At Maverick Safari UAE, we believe true luxury lies in the details a private car that smells fresh, a driver who acts as a personal concierge, and a dinner served to your table while others wait in line. In this honest guide, we will break down exactly what a real Royal and VIP safari entails in 2026, how much it costs, and how to ensure you get the exclusive treatment you deserve.
Quick Answer: What is a VIP & Royal Desert Safari?
For those in a hurry, here is the executive summary of what sets these packages apart:
- The Core Difference: It’s all about Privacy and Service. You skip the queues, you don’t share your vehicle (unless you choose to), and you dine in an exclusive area.
- Transport: Luxury 4×4 Land Cruisers (often private) instead of buses or shared SUVs.
- Dining: Table Service (waiters bring food to you) vs. Self-Service Buffet.
- Seating: Air-conditioned Majlis or plush sofas vs. floor cushions or standard tables.
- Price Range (2026):
- VIP Shared (Camp Only): 250 AED – 350 AED per person.
- Private VIP Car: 1,000 AED – 1,500 AED per vehicle.
- Royal/Platinum Experience: 2,500 AED+ (Private Cabana/Setup).
What Is a VIP Desert Tour Dubai?
A VIP desert tour Dubai takes the standard thrilling itinerary and removes all the friction points. No waiting, no rushing, and no discomfort.
While the activity flow remains similar (dune bashing, camel ride, shows), the quality of every step is upgraded.
The Royal Timeline
- 02:30 PM: Your private driver picks you up in a spotless, premium 4×4 from your hotel lobby.
- 03:45 PM: Arrival at the Red Dunes (Lahbab). You enjoy a private dune bashing session tailored to your preferred intensity.
- 05:00 PM: Sunset stop at a secluded spot away from the main tourist convoys for undisturbed photos.
- 06:00 PM: VIP Arrival: You enter the camp through a dedicated fast-track gate.
- 06:15 PM: You are escorted to your reserved VIP lounge
- 07:00 PM: A dedicated waiter serves your starters and drinks. No standing in lines.
- 07:30 PM: Royal Dinner: A gourmet BBQ platter is served directly to your table while you watch the shows from the best view in the house.
- 09:00 PM: Priority departure back to the city.
Current Packages & Price Range in 2026
At Maverick Safari UAE, we categorize our premium offerings clearly so you know exactly what you are paying for.
1. The VIP Upgrade (Shared Transfer)
- Price Range: 250 AED – 350 AED per person.
- The Concept: You share the 4×4 transport with other guests (max 6 pax), but once you reach the camp, you are treated like a VIP.
- Inclusions: Door-to-door pickup, Dune Bashing, VIP Lounge Access, and Table Service for dinner.
- Best For: Solo travelers or couples who want camp luxury without the cost of a private car.
2. The Private VIP Land Cruiser
- Price Range: 1,000 AED – 1,500 AED per vehicle (up to 6 guests).
- The Concept: The vehicle is yours exclusively.
- The Perks:
- Total Privacy: No strangers. Your music, your vibe.
- Custom Drive: You tell the driver to go “Extreme” or “Gentle.”
- VIP Camp: Includes the full VIP table service experience at the camp.
- Best For: Families, groups of friends, and those valuing privacy.
3. The Royal Desert Safari
- Price Range: Custom Quote (Starting 2,500+ AED).
- The Concept: This is for those who want to avoid the main camp entirely.
- The Perks: A private setup in the dunes with a private chef, bonfire, and waiter. This is the ultimate “royal desert safari Dubai” experience. Note: Requires advance booking.
What’s Included
When booking a luxury desert safari, transparency is key. Here is what Maverick Safari UAE guarantees in our VIP packages:
Transport & Pickup Details
- Vehicle: We use high-end Toyota Land Cruisers (LC200/300) or Nissan Patrols. No buses, no vans.
- Pickup: Door-to-door from any hotel, residence, or villa in Dubai and Sharjah.
- Flexibility: On private tours, if you are running late, we wait.
Dune Bashing & Safety
- The Drive: Our VIP drivers are our “Captains” guides with 10+ years of experience. They know how to drive smoothly to minimize motion sickness while maximizing the thrill.
- Safety: Roll cages, first aid kits, and GPS tracking are standard.
Activities & Camp Experience
- Fast Track: Skip the lines for the camel ride and henna painting.
- Seating: You get Sofa Seating or cushioned chairs on a raised platform, ensuring a clear view of the Belly Dance and Fire Show without heads blocking your view.
Food & Dining (The Royal Touch)
- Service: This is the game-changer. Waiters bring everything to you.
- The Menu:
- Welcome: Arabic coffee (Gahwa) and dates.
- Starters: Hot Falafel, Sambousek, Shawarma served to table.
- Mains: Massive Mixed Grill Platter (Lamb Chops, Shish Tawook, Kebabs, Grilled Fish), Fresh Salads, Hummus, Bread.
- Drinks: Unlimited water, soft drinks, tea, and coffee (served to table).
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Even in VIP packages, some items are extra:
- Alcohol: Not included in the ticket price. Available for purchase at the camp bar.
- Private Shisha at Table: Free in the smoking area, but chargeable (~50 AED) if brought to your VIP table.
- Quad Bikes: Always a separate rental fee.
How to Choose the Best VIP Package
| If you are… | Recommended Package | Why? |
| Honeymooners | Private VIP Car | Privacy in the car allows for romance. VIP service at camp feels special. |
| Family with Kids | Private VIP Car | Private car means you control the drive speed. VIP seating gives kids space to nap or play safely. |
| Business Group | VIP Shared / Private | Impress clients with a seamless experience where they don’t have to queue for food. |
| Foodie | Royal / VIP | The food served to VIP tables is often fresher and hotter than the general buffet. |
Real Experience: A Day in the Life of a Royal Guest
02:45 PM: Your driver, Ahmed, arrives at your hotel in a gleaming white Land Cruiser. He opens the door for you. The interior is cool, and there is cold water waiting.
03:45 PM: You arrive at the desert. Ahmed asks, “Would you like a thrilling drive or a smooth scenic one?” You choose thrilling. He takes you deep into the Red Dunes of Lahbab, far away from the crowded entry points.
04:30 PM: You stop on a pristine ridge. The sand is untouched. Ahmed takes a panoramic photo of you with the sunset. No rushing, no waiting for other tourists.
06:00 PM: You arrive at the camp. While others line up for entry, you walk through the VIP gate. You are ushered to a plush sofa in the raised Majlis.
06:15 PM: A waiter places a cold drink and a plate of hot appetizers on your table. You relax and watch the sunset turn to twilight.
07:30 PM: The Tanoura Dancer spins on stage. Your dinner arrives a feast of grilled meats. You enjoy the show with a clear view, dining like a Sheikh.
09:00 PM: As the night winds down, you are escorted back to your car. The drive home is quiet and comfortable. You feel refreshed, not exhausted.
Practical Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
1. Booking Lead Time
True VIP sections have limited capacity (often only 20-30 seats vs. 500 standard seats). Book at least 3 days in advance, especially for weekends (Friday/Saturday).
2. Dress Code
Smart Casual. You are in a premium section, but you are still in the desert.
- Men: Linen trousers or smart shorts.
- Women: Flowy dresses (great for photos) or jumpsuits. Avoid high heels sandals are best.
3. Tipping
In the premium service industry in Dubai, tipping is not mandatory but highly appreciated. If your driver and waiter make you feel like royalty, a tip is a kind gesture.
4. Alcohol Rules
During the Holy Month of Ramadan or specific religious holidays, alcohol service and live entertainment (belly dancing) may be restricted by law, even in VIP areas. Please check with us before booking if this is important to you.
Why Choose Maverick Safari UAE for Your Royal Tour?
- We Deliver What We Promise: We don’t sell “fake VIP” (which is just a tablecloth in the standard area). Our VIP packages mean genuine table service and premium seating.
- Concierge Support: Our team is available 24/7 on WhatsApp to handle special requests, surprise birthday cakes, or dietary needs.
- Luxury Fleet: We maintain our vehicles to the highest standards of safety and hygiene.
Ready to Live the Royal Life?
Don’t just visit the desert experience it in style. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the comfort you deserve.
VIP slots are limited. Reserve your exclusive seat today.
- View VIP & Royal Packages
- WhatsApp Us for a Custom Quote: [+971552525075]
- Call Us: [+971552525075]
Your chariot awaits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between VIP and Royal Safari?
A: VIP usually refers to a premium package within a large camp (VIP seating, table service). Royal often implies a completely private setup or access to an ultra-exclusive resort/reserve with gourmet dining and no crowds.
Q: Can I customize the food menu?
A: In the VIP Package, the menu is a set premium BBQ platter. However, if you have allergies or dietary needs (Vegetarian/Jain/Gluten-Free), please inform us in advance, and the chef will prepare a special meal for you.
Q: Is the VIP safari suitable for infants?
A: Yes, very much so. The VIP lounge offers a comfortable, cleaner space for families with babies. We recommend the Private Car option so you can drive gently to the camp and skip the rough dune bashing.
Q: Does the VIP package include Quad Biking?
A: No, Quad Biking is an optional add-on. However, we offer VIP Combo Deals where you can add a 30-minute quad ride for a discounted rate.
Q: Do you pick up from Abu Dhabi?
A: Yes, we can arrange private VIP transfers from Abu Dhabi to the Dubai desert. There is an additional transfer fee due to the travel distance (approx. 1.5 hours each way).
About the Author
This guide is curated by the luxury travel experts at Maverick Safari UAE. We have hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and discerning travelers, ensuring that every guest experiences the true warmth of Arabian hospitality without compromising on 5-star comfort.