Arabian adventures and desert safaris in Dubai

And, so far, they seem to be on the right track. Everything from man-made islands to the world's tallest building and swimming with dolphins - Dubai has it covered. In all honesty, Dubai as a destination is a PR dream. It has a fascinating story to tell and has created the most mind-blowing attractions in the heart of a desert land, which has resulted in hordes of tourists lapping it up. Something that has fast become a firm favourite of visitors to Dubai is something the Emirates has labelled the desert safari.

Typically, the term "safari" had been defined as "an overland journey, usually a trip by tourists to Africa". However, in Dubai, the word "safari" has taken on a whole new meaning, where it is now an overland journey through the desert.

Speak to anyone in South Africa who has visited Dubai, and chances are they'll have braved a desert safari. Upon asking them how it was, they'll more than likely narrate the experience with excitement and have the most vibrant memories of the adventure through the dunes. I've been to Dubai for work and leisure on a few occasions, but I had never booked a desert safari - until now.

Booking the excursion with Arabian Adventures was a breeze and we were provided with all the "need to know" details beforehand, so there were no surprises along the way.

Trusty guide and dune driver

On the day of our desert safari, we were picked up by our safari guide, Shan, from our hotel's lobby. Shan would remain with us for the duration of the excursion and serve as our trusty guide and dune driver. From there, we set off on the drive to the Dubai Desert Conservation area in Marghem. The drive took about an hour and was filled with interesting information and commentary about Dubai, from Shan. There are vast numbers of new developments and tourist attractions being built along the route from central Dubai to Marghem. No amount of Googling can arm you with the kind of insight and first-hand knowledge that your safari guide will offer you on that drive.

On arrival at the conservation area, we grabbed a complimentary drink (water or soft drink) and sat down to watch a falcon show, which lasted about 15/20 minutes. The falcon show was hosted by a South African and was absolutely fascinating. From there, it was back into the vehicles to head off on a drive through the dunes. I use the term "drive" lightly. It was more of a rollercoaster. Each guide has a licence to drive 4x4s off-road and through the dunes in the desert. When you experience this ride, you'll know why they need to be properly trained for it. This is definitely an incredible way to experience the adventurous side of the desert.

We stopped in the middle of the desert for about an hour to watch the sunset, which was exquisite. This provided us with beautiful photo opportunities.

As soon as the sun set, we drove to a Bedouin camp, also in the desert, where we would have an Arabian evening filled with Middle Eastern cuisine, henna, camel rides, falcon photo opportunities, shisha, drinks, and entertainment from a belly dancer. After dinner, we had a five minute "lights out" period where they turned off all of the lights in the camp and afforded you the opportunity to gaze at the stars in the night sky. Nothing beats star gazing in the heart of the desert. And so ended our evening.

Breathtaking and adventurous

A desert safari is probably the most breathtaking and adventurous seven hours you are likely to experience in Dubai. Whether you're a frequent traveller to Dubai, or are visiting for the first time, this tour is a must. It is great value for the money and is a beautiful way to experience Middle Eastern tradition in the desert.

This was my first time experiencing a desert safari in Dubai, and recounting the experience, it definitely won't be my last. Come to think of it, I don't know why I hadn't booked it sooner!

For more, go to www.definitelydubai.com