Enjoying a Dubai hot air balloon ride is undoubtedly one of the best experiences you could have in the UAE. Dubai is a city that never fails to amaze with its luxurious attractions, but for those seeking an extra dose of excitement, a hot air balloon ride in the Dubai Desert is an absolute must. Picture yourself gently floating above the mesmerizing golden sands as the sun begins its ascent, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. The panoramic vistas of the desert landscape will leave you breathless and provide an unparalleled perspective of this country, far from the stereotypes of the metropolis.
As you soar through the sky, the sheer tranquility of the hot air balloon ride allows you to appreciate the vastness of the desert and the captivating beauty of its surroundings, while a knowledgeable pilot will also regal you with fascinating insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of native wildlife, such as arabian oryx and gazelles, gracefully navigating the arid terrain.
The experience of a hot air balloon ride in the Dubai Desert is undeniably unforgettable. It grants you a sense of tranquility and serenity, taking you away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The cool morning breeze against your face, the silence interrupted only by occasional bursts of the burner, and the breathtaking views create an atmosphere that will remain etched in your memory forever.
To make your trip to Dubai truly remarkable, consider adding this unforgettable adventure to your itinerary. Whether you are a thrill-seeker, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique experience, a hot air balloon ride in the Dubai Desert promises to be a highlight of your visit. Capture stunning photographs, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring surroundings – in the largest sandy desert in the world – and relish in the magical moments as you create memories that will last a lifetime.
Can you do hot air balloon in Dubai?
Yes, hot air balloon rides are available in the desert just outside of Dubai. These rides typically offer stunning views of the desert landscape, as well as the opportunity to spot wildlife such as camels and gazelles. The balloon rides usually take place early in the morning, before the heat of the day becomes too intense, and last for about an hour.
It is not possible to take a hot air balloon ride in the city center of Dubai, as the tall buildings and other urban development would not allow for the balloon to safely navigate the airspace. If you are interested in seeing the city and its iconic skyline from above, you may want to consider a helicopter tour of Dubai. There are several companies that offer these tours, which typically last for about 30 minutes to an hour and allow you to see the city’s famous landmarks, such as the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, from a unique perspective.
Where can I do hot air balloon in Dubai?
Dubai hot air balloon rides take place in the desert just outside the city, often around small oases or desert camps, but one of the best places is the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and surroundings, a nature reserve nestled in the heart of the desert, which is home to a variety of wildlife and offers breathtaking desert landscapes. The hot air balloon rides here are scheduled at sunrise, providing panoramic views of the desert and the surrounding mountains.
To go on a balloon ride in Dubai you will need to book in advance online. Specialist operators offer both group tours and private tours, and a popular platform for booking is GetYourGuide. Alternatively, you can consider Civitatis or Tiqets as reliable alternatives. Booking through these platforms ensures a licensed tour with a certified guide and experienced pilots (safety comes first when you’re going to soar 4000 feet in the sky). Additionally, the package usually includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Dubai, competitive pricing, and the flexibility to cancel your tour for free if necessary.
There are both group and private Dubai balloon rides, each providing a tailor-made experience. Unlike other destinations – like in Cappadocia, for example – where balloon rides run continuously, here in Dubai it’s a unique and intimate adventure. It’s highly likely that you and your group will have the sky to yourselves, making it a truly special experience that is difficult to find elsewhere in the world.
Dubai hot balloon rides are typically available year-round, except during the months of July and August. The last balloon rides usually take place in the first week of July and resume in early September. This break aligns with the intense desert heat and high temperatures experienced during those months.
Usually you’ll leave Dubai early in the morning, around 4.00 AM, to reach the desert, prepare the balloon and take off. As the sun rises over the horizon, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking display of colors, from the warm hues of the rising sun to the cool blues of the desert sky. Often the tours include also a hearty traditional breakfast in the desert at the end of the hot balloon ride, complete with fresh dates and aromatic coffee, and may even offer a more complete desert experience with additional activities such as camel rides, falconry visits, and ATV adventures.
What are the best hot air balloon rides in Dubai?
Dubai boasts some of the most awe-inspiring hot air balloon rides in the world. Located in the desert just outside the city, these rides offer breathtaking views of the surrounding dunes and wilderness. There are various types of hot air balloon rides to choose from.
The most popular options is the dawn ride. Taking place as the sun rises, this experience provides a truly magical adventure as you float above the desert. Lasting approximately one hour, it allows you to fully immerse yourself in the spectacular sunrise view over the desert. Afterward, you can enjoy a traditional coffee or tea before returning to Dubai. The basic Dubai Hot Air Balloon Ride starts at $290 per person, making it the most affordable option. However, you can often find special prices on platforms like GetYourGuide and Civitatis.
For just under $10 more, you have the opportunity to embark on a comprehensive Dubai Hot Air Balloon Tour with Camel Ride and Breakfast. This package includes a traditional breakfast in a Bedouin camp in the desert, where you can also marvel at falcons and enjoy a short camel ride.
For the ultimate adventure, consider combining your hot air balloon ride with a Dubai Desert Safari. The desert safari is an unmissable experience, and coupling it with a hot air balloon ride only enhances the adventure. You’ll have the chance to explore the desert in a 4×4 vehicle, taking in the rugged landscape as you traverse the dunes. Along the way, you might even spot wildlife like gazelles or camels. This more comprehensive tour also offers a desert tour in a fabulous vintage Land Rover, an exciting ATV experience in the desert dunes, a short camel ride, and a hearty gourmet breakfast. The price for this luxury hot air balloon ride is around $490.
On the other hand, if you desire an intimate and exclusive experience, booking a private hot air balloon ride is an excellent option. These rides allow you to have the entire balloon to yourself, making it perfect for couples or small groups. Private hot air balloon rides in Dubai start at around $3000.
FAQs on Dubai Hot Air Balloon Rides
How long is the hot air balloon ride in Dubai?
Typically, hot air balloon rides in Dubai last around 1 hour. However, the entire experience, including hotel pick-up, breakfast, post-landing activities, and the actual ride, can range from 4 to 8 hours.
What are the prices for hot air balloon rides in Dubai?
Hot air balloon rides in Dubai generally range in price from approximately AED 1,100 to AED 2,000 per person (around $290 to $500). The price varies depending on factors such as the operator, duration of the ride, and included activities like desert tours and breakfast. It’s advisable to book your hot air balloon ride in advance to secure availability and potentially find better prices based on demand.
Where is the best place to book a hot air balloon ride in Dubai?
You can book hot air balloon rides in Dubai online through various tour operators and booking platforms like GetYourGuide, Civitatis, and Tiqets. These websites offer a variety of options to choose from, allowing you to compare prices and reviews easily to find the best deal. They also provide the assurance that you are booking with a reputable operator that upholds high safety standards and offers the best value for your money.
Which operator offers the cheapest hot air balloon rides in Dubai?
Currently, Civitatis offers the cheapest hot air balloon ride in Dubai for $275, which is a special offer saving you at least $40 off the regular price. Additionally, children between the ages of 5 and 11 can avail of a reduced price.
What should I wear for a hot air balloon ride in Dubai?
When preparing for a hot air balloon ride in Dubai, it’s important to dress comfortably and appropriately. The weather in Dubai is typically warm and sunny, so it’s recommended to wear light, loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibers like cotton or linen.
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. If you plan to fly early in the morning or evening, it’s advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater as it can get cooler at higher altitudes. Additionally, wearing closed-toe shoes is recommended to ensure comfort and stability while walking on potentially uneven ground.
Are you planning your trip to the UAE? These tips may come in handy:
THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN DUBAI
THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN ABU DHABI
USEFUL TIPS AND PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR A TRIP TO THE UAE
GUIDE TO THE BEST CAR RENTALS IN DUBAI AND ABU DHABI