Dubai: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon & Michelin Breakfast Tour

Summary

Sunrise flight over Dubai’s desert with falcon show and gourmet breakfast

You’ll float above Dubai’s desert as dawn breaks, watch an in-flight falcon show with stories from your guide, then savor a Michelin-starred breakfast at an exclusive royal retreat. With hotel pickup and gentle camel rides included, this day trip is equal parts peaceful and quietly thrilling—you might catch yourself smiling at random memories long after you’re back in the city.

What’s the experience like?

I never thought I’d start my day floating over the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, but there I was—half awake, clutching a mug of cardamom tea while the balloon crew prepped everything. The sand felt chilly under my sneakers, which surprised me. Our pilot, Yusuf, had this calm way of explaining safety stuff that made even my nervous friend relax. When the burners fired up, it was loud and warm—kind of like standing next to a dragon, if dragons existed. And then we were just…up. No warning, really.

The sunrise didn’t hit all at once. It crept up behind the dunes and suddenly everything went gold—like someone switched on a filter for real life. There was this moment when the only sound was wind and the occasional whoosh from the burners. Then Li, our in-flight storyteller (she’s lived here her whole life), started telling us about old Bedouin routes and pointed out gazelles moving way below us. The falconer let his bird loose right there in the basket; watching that falcon cut through the air next to us felt unreal. I tried to film it but mostly just stared.

Landing was smoother than I expected—just a soft bump and we were back on earth. They drove us out to this private oasis where breakfast was waiting under low trees (I still think about those saffron eggs). The chef came out for a second and explained how he picked flavors from each “element”—I probably missed half of it because I was busy with fresh flatbread. After eating way too much, someone suggested a camel ride around camp. I’m not sure if camels are ever totally relaxed but mine seemed patient enough with my awkwardness.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hot air balloon and desert breakfast

• Pick up from Dubai in Land Rover
• Arrive for tea and safety briefing
• Fly over desert with falcon show
• Drive to Royal Desert Retreat
• Enjoy Michelin-starred breakfast
• Take short camel ride
• Return to the city

Top questions

How long does the hot air balloon flight last?

The flight lasts approximately 60 minutes over the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

Is hotel pickup included in this Dubai hot air balloon tour?

Yes, round-trip transfers from Dubai hotels are included in a Land Rover Defender.

What kind of breakfast is served after the flight?

A contemporary breakfast menu crafted by a Michelin-starred chef is served at a private desert retreat.

Are camel rides part of this experience?

Yes, short camel rides around the desert oasis are included after breakfast.

Is there an age restriction for children?

This tour is not recommended for children aged 6 and below.

Will there be a guide during the hot air balloon flight?

Yes, you’ll have an experienced pilot plus an in-flight storyteller sharing local history and culture.

Can travelers with health issues join this tour?

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

What should I wear for the Dubai sunrise balloon tour?

Comfortable clothing and footwear are best; bring a light jacket, hat, and sunglasses for early morning chill and sun.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel pickup from anywhere in Dubai in a Land Rover Defender, tea or coffee before takeoff, a 60-minute sunrise hot air balloon ride with live falconry and storytelling onboard, exclusive access to a royal desert retreat for a Michelin-starred breakfast at your own table, plus short camel rides before heading back to the city.