Dubai Desert: Hot Air Balloon, Quad Biking & Falcon Show

Summary

Desert sunrise balloon ride with falcon show quad biking camel and horse rides plus breakfast

You’ll watch sunrise from a hot air balloon over Dubai’s desert, see a live falcon show in flight, then try dune bashing, quad biking, and short rides on camels and horses. A traditional Bedouin breakfast is included before heading back—expect laughter, some nerves (the good kind), and memories that linger longer than you’d think.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the silence—just the soft hiss of the burners above us as our hot air balloon drifted up over Dubai’s desert. It was still dark when we got picked up (I nearly forgot my jacket), but by the time we were floating, that pinkish light started to spill across the sand. Our pilot, Kareem, pointed out some oryx below—tiny white dots moving slowly—and then suddenly there was this falcon swooping past us. I didn’t expect how quiet it would be up there. Even my friend stopped talking for once.

After landing (which was less bumpy than I feared), we piled into 4x4s for dune bashing. That part had me gripping the seat—honestly, I laughed so hard I almost missed the view outside. The sand felt different under my shoes when we stopped; kind of cool and powdery before the sun really hit. We tried quad biking next—my steering wasn’t great at first but no one seemed to mind. There was this moment where everything smelled like warm earth and engine oil, which sounds weird but it stuck with me.

Breakfast came in a Bedouin-style camp, all carpets and low tables, with cardamom coffee that tasted stronger than I expected. Someone handed me dates (still sticky from the heat) while a guide showed us how they train falcons—he let me hold one for a second but honestly I was nervous. Later there were camels and horses waiting nearby; I picked the smallest camel because he looked friendliest. My legs still felt wobbly from everything by then, but in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure with balloon and activities

• Watch sunrise from hot air balloon
• See falcon show during flight
• Experience dune bashing desert safari
• Enjoy gourmet breakfast in desert camp
• Go quad biking in desert
• Ride a camel
• Try horse riding

Top questions

How long does the Dubai hot air balloon tour last?

The full experience takes most of the morning, starting before sunrise and ending late morning after breakfast and activities.

Is pickup included for this Dubai desert adventure?

Yes, shared pickup and return transfers within Dubai are included in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Can children join the hot air balloon ride?

Children under 5 years old are not allowed on this tour. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s included in the buffet breakfast?

The breakfast is served in a traditional Bedouin camp with local dishes such as dates, coffee, and other regional specialties.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or serious heart conditions.

Do you need experience to try quad biking or horse riding?

No previous experience is needed; guides will help you with both quad biking and horse riding during your visit.

Is dune bashing safe for everyone?

Dune bashing can be intense; it’s not recommended for people with back problems or recent surgeries.

What’s included

Your day includes early morning hotel pickup anywhere within Dubai city limits, a sunrise hot air balloon ride with an in-flight falcon show, guided dune bashing by 4x4 vehicle, quad biking in the desert sands, short horse and camel rides inside a Bedouin-style camp, plus a buffet breakfast featuring local flavors before your return transfer back to your hotel.