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"Is the VIP desert safari worth it?" - I get asked this constantly. After running hundreds of both standard and VIP safaris, here's my honest breakdown of what you're actually paying for and whether it makes sense for your trip.
Let me be direct: the activities are largely the same. Both VIP and standard packages include dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, entertainment, and BBQ dinner. The difference is in the experience quality around those activities.
For a detailed comparison, read our standard vs premium desert safari comparison.
Standard safaris seat you at shared tables with other groups. VIP gives you a private seating area - typically a cushioned Bedouin-style setup with your own service. If you're celebrating an anniversary or special occasion, this privacy matters. If you're solo travelers who don't mind meeting others, it might not.
VIP guests get picked up first and dropped off last. This means:
The standard BBQ is good - grilled meats, salads, bread. VIP adds:
VIP guests often have access to quieter sections of the camp. The photo opportunities are better (fewer people in background), and the overall atmosphere is more relaxed.
Standard vehicles might have 6-8 guests. VIP caps at 4-6, meaning more personalized attention during dune bashing and a less rushed experience.
| Feature | Standard | VIP |
|---|---|---|
| Dune Bashing | ✓ Same vehicles | ✓ Same vehicles |
| Sandboarding | ✓ Included | ✓ Included |
| Camel Ride | ✓ Short ride | ✓ Short ride |
| Entertainment | ✓ Full shows | ✓ Full shows + better seats |
| Seating | Shared tables | Private area |
| Food Quality | Good BBQ | Premium selection |
| Group Size | 6-8 per vehicle | 4-6 per vehicle |
| Pickup Time | Multiple stops | Priority/direct |
| Price Range | AED 150-250 | AED 350-500 |
VIP makes sense if:
Standard is fine if:
For more insider tips, check our 7 premium desert safari secrets that most people don't know.
The heart-pumping, roller-coaster-on-sand experience is identical in both packages. Same Land Cruisers, same experienced drivers, same red dunes. The only difference: VIP vehicles have fewer passengers, so you might get front-seat access more easily. Our Premium Dubai Desert Safari includes this same thrilling experience.
Boards provided, staff help you. Same dunes, same experience. VIP doesn't change the sandboarding itself. If this is a highlight for you, check our detailed sandboarding guide.
A short, traditional ride across the dunes. Same camels, same experience. VIP sometimes has slightly shorter queues, but the ride is identical.
This is where VIP shines. While standard guests share long tables, VIP guests have private setups with cushions and low tables. The belly dancing, fire shows, and Tanoura performances are the same, but VIP seating gives better views and photo opportunities.
For couples celebrating: VIP is worth it. The private seating and romantic atmosphere justify the upgrade.
For families: Consider our family desert safari guide - VIP can be nice with kids if you want dedicated space, but standard works fine too.
For solo travelers/friends: Standard is usually sufficient unless you specifically want privacy.
First-time visitors: Start with our standard premium package - it's excellent quality, and you can always upgrade next time.
Ready to book? Our Premium Dubai Desert Safari offers the VIP experience at competitive rates. If you want the activities without the premium price, our standard premium package delivers excellent value.
For the best timing advice, read our best time to visit guide - sunset timing varies by season and affects the VIP experience significantly.
