When planning a safari in Dubai, one of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to opt for a shared or private experience. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, catering to different preferences and budgets. This article provides a detailed comparison between shared and private safaris in Dubai, helping you make an informed choice for your adventure in 2024. Best difference between Shared vs Private Safari. Book your trip now.
What is Shared Safari?
A shared safari is a cost-effective way to experience the wonders of the desert. In this option, you join other travelers in a shared vehicle, usually a 4×4, to explore the desert. The shared evening safari is the most popular, priced at 120 AED per person. This option allows you to enjoy all the activities of a desert safari while sharing the experience and the cost with others. Shared vs Private Safari.
Key Features of Shared Safari
- Affordability: Shared safaris are budget-friendly, making them accessible to a wider range of travelers.
- Social Experience: Sharing the vehicle with other tourists can be a great way to meet new people and share the adventure.
- Standard Itinerary: The activities in a shared safari are typically pre-arranged, including dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner with cultural performances. Shared vs Private Safari
Inclusions in Shared Evening Safari
| Activity | Shared Evening Safari |
|---|---|
| Dune Bashing | Yes |
| Sandboarding | Yes |
| Camel Ride | Yes |
| BBQ Dinner | Yes |
| Cultural Performances | Yes |
| Henna Painting | Yes |
| Quad Biking (Optional) | Yes |
What is Private Safari?
A private safari offers a more exclusive and personalized desert experience. This option is ideal for those who prefer privacy and a tailored itinerary. Private evening safaris are priced at 700 AED, providing a premium experience with the option to customize activities. Overnight and morning safaris are also available as private options, both priced at 700 AED.
Key Features of Private Safari
- Exclusivity: Enjoy the desert with only your group, ensuring privacy and a more intimate experience.
- Personalized Itinerary: Customize the activities according to your preferences, including extended time at certain spots or additional activities.
- Comfort and Convenience: Travel in a private vehicle with your own guide, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience. Shared vs Private Safari
Inclusions in Private Safari
| Activity | Private Evening Safari | Private Overnight Safari | Private Morning Safari |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dune Bashing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sandboarding | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Camel Ride | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| BBQ Dinner | Yes | Yes | No |
| Cultural Performances | Yes | Yes | No |
| Henna Painting | Yes | Yes | No |
| Quad Biking (Optional) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Stargazing | Yes | Yes | No |
| Breakfast | No | Yes | Yes |
Advantages of Shared Safari
- Cost-Effective: The shared safari is significantly cheaper, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
- Social Interaction: Traveling with other tourists can be a fun way to make new friends and share experiences.
- Convenient: Shared safaris have a fixed schedule, which can be convenient for those who prefer a well-organized itinerary. Shared vs Private Safari
Disadvantages of Shared Safari
- Less Privacy: Sharing the vehicle with strangers means less privacy during the trip.
- Fixed Itinerary: The schedule is pre-determined, leaving little room for personalization or extended stays at certain spots.
- Limited Space: Shared vehicles can feel cramped, especially during peak tourist seasons. Shared vs Private Safari
Advantages of Private Safari
- Privacy and Exclusivity: Enjoy the desert with just your group, providing a more intimate and personal experience.
- Customizable Itinerary: Tailor the safari to your preferences, spending more time on activities you enjoy and skipping those you don’t.
- Comfort: Travel in a private vehicle, ensuring more space and comfort throughout the journey. Shared vs Private Safari
Disadvantages of Private Safari
- Higher Cost: Private safaris are more expensive, which might not be suitable for all budgets.
- Planning Required: Customizing the itinerary requires more planning and coordination with the tour operator.
- Limited Social Interaction: You might miss out on the opportunity to meet and interact with other travelers. Shared vs Private Safari
Shared vs Private Safari: Which is Better for You?
Choosing between a shared and private safari depends on your preferences, budget, and the kind of experience you want. Here are some factors to consider: Shared vs Private Safari
Budget
- Shared Safari: Ideal for those looking to experience the desert without spending too much. At 120 AED per person, it’s a great value for money.
- Private Safari: Suited for travelers willing to spend more for exclusivity and customization. At 700 AED, it offers a premium experience. Shared vs Private Safari
Privacy
- Shared Safari: Best for those who don’t mind sharing the experience with others and enjoy socializing.
- Private Safari: Perfect for those who value privacy and want a more intimate experience with family or friends.
Customization
- Shared Safari: Follows a fixed itinerary, suitable for travelers who prefer a set schedule.
- Private Safari: Offers the flexibility to customize the itinerary, allowing you to tailor the activities to your liking.
Group Size
- Shared Safari: Works well for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking to share the experience.
- Private Safari: Ideal for families, larger groups, or those celebrating a special occasion, ensuring the entire vehicle is reserved for your party.
Shared vs Private Safari: In-Depth Comparison
To help you decide, here’s an in-depth comparison of shared and private safaris:
Cost Comparison
| Safari Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Shared Evening Safari | 120 AED per person |
| Private Evening Safari | 700 AED |
| Private Overnight Safari | 700 AED |
| Private Morning Safari | 700 AED |
Experience Comparison
| Feature | Shared Safari | Private Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy | Low | High |
| Customization | Limited | Extensive |
| Social Interaction | High | Low |
| Comfort | Moderate | High |
| Fixed Schedule | Yes | No |
| Personalized Attention | Limited | Extensive |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between a shared and private safari in Dubai comes down to your personal preferences and budget. If you’re looking for an affordable, social experience with a fixed itinerary, a shared safari is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value privacy, comfort, and customization, a private safari will provide a more exclusive and tailored experience.
Both options offer a fantastic way to explore the stunning Arabian Desert, enjoy thrilling activities, and create unforgettable memories. Use this guide to decide which safari experience suits you best and enjoy an incredible adventure in Dubai in 2024. Shared vs Private Safari best comparison.