About Arabian Adventures
Arabian Adventures is not a physical theater or stadium but the UAE’s premier tour and adventure company. Founded in 1987 as Dubai’s first locally based tour operator, it remains part of the Emirates Group and today runs hundreds of excursions across the UAE, including Abu Dhabi. It is notable for pioneering desert safaris and city sightseeing as an authentic “Arabian hospitality” experience . Over 360 multilingual staff (including expert safari guides) and a commitment to quality and safety set it apart . The company holds high industry awards (including incentive-travel honors) and a climate-offset certification (CEMARS), supporting conservation in Arabia’s deserts . Signature features include exclusive access to protected desert reserves, permanent eco-friendly camps, and rich cultural programming. Arabian Adventures helped put UAE desert tourism on the map, bringing travelers up-close to Bedouin culture, wildlife and Arabian hospitality that make it a unique part of the local scene . In summary, although not a “venue” in the traditional sense, Arabian Adventures is a landmark company offering safe, high-quality tours that showcase the UAE’s heritage, landscapes, and culture.
Events and Programming
Rather than concerts or shows, Arabian Adventures fills its calendar with travel experiences. The company operates year-round tours and special events. Typical offerings include Abu Dhabi city sightseeing tours (covering landmarks like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island) and desert adventures (sunset or sunrise 4×4 safaris, dune-buggy rides, camel treks, Bedouin camps, nighttime entertainment and stargazing). Many tours are available daily in shared or private format. For example, the Abu Dhabi Attractions Tour is a full-day city tour (about 12 hours) that includes Mosque visits, Corniche drives and attractions like Louvre, Ferrari World or Warner Bros World . Popular add-ons include Falconry shows, evening desert barbecues with henna and Tanoura dance, and overnight camping under the stars. They even run corporate and incentive events: past high-profile themed events have ranged from guided F1 discussions with top drivers in a desert setting to luxurious desert Iftar feasts during Ramadan . In 2023 the company introduced “The Adventure Pass” – bundled attraction tickets for Dubai tours (including their safari) with up to 40% savings . Though most activities focus on nature and culture, Arabian Adventures also offers water sports, city tours, and urban attractions. Recurring highlights are the classic Evening Desert Safari (with buffet dinner and entertainment), premium sunrise tours, and seasonal programs (Ramadan desert dinners, New Year’s Eve desert parties, etc.) . Prices vary by tour type: for example a shared Abu Dhabi city sightseeing tour starts around £64 per person , while a Dubai desert safari typically starts at AED 349 (about US$95) including transfers and dinner . Special packages can include private vehicles, alcohol upgrades, or extra activities at slightly higher cost.
Tickets and Booking
Booking is usually done online or via official offices – there is no outdoor box office at a physical site. Arabian Adventures tickets (tour reservations) can be booked through their website, by phone, or at hotel desks. The company has multilingual customer service (English, Arabic and more) and can handle last-minute tours. Ticket sales for tours generally open as soon as the schedule is published, and popular slots (weekends, holiday weeks, international school breaks) fill up quickly. For in-demand tours (like New Year’s Eve desert events or holiday dates) it’s best to book several weeks to months in advance. Group bookings and private tours should also be arranged early. Various pricing tiers exist: a basic shared safari or city tour at a set price per person, plus premium or private options. Many attractions cost extra (e.g. Louvre or theme park entries) unless a package includes them. Arabian Adventures often offers combo deals or passes (like The Adventure Pass) and occasional promo discounts, but the safest strategy is purchase via authorized channels well before travel. If changes are needed, note their cancellation policy: you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour to avoid being charged . For group or corporate events, consult their Meetings and Events team. Many travelers simply have their hotel concierge or travel agent book these tours on their behalf, or they call the toll-free line (+971 800 ARABIAN) or local UAE number to reserve. In summary, buy tickets through official booking outlets (website, phone, agent), plan ahead for busy times, and expect a fixed price per person depending on tour inclusions.
Seating and Layout
Since Arabian Adventures is a tour operator, “seating” refers to the vehicles and camps rather than an auditorium. City tours typically use air-conditioned coaches or minibuses; desert safaris use 4x4 Toyota Land Cruisers and dune buggies. A Land Cruiser usually seats 6 guests plus the driver, and seats are often rotated among passengers during off-roading for fairness and safety . For private tours you get your own vehicle exclusively. Child seating is offered: infant and booster seats are available but must be booked in advance (per UAE law) . All safari vehicles are equipped with safety features and seat belts which passengers must use . Guide commentary on city tours flows from the front of the bus, so sitting near the front can be slightly more engaging, though AC and visibility are good throughout. In the desert vehicles, many travelers prefer the middle row (less jostling than right behind the driver), though all seats provide views of the dunes. Desert camps have chairs and floor cushions around the bonfire; for special nights (New Year’s Eve, etc.) extra seating might be added. As far as amenities: the camps use permanent tent structures with real toilets (flush or portable units) in each camp . In general, travelers find seating and layout comfortable: guides rotate seats to share the experience, and the Yok seats are padded. The only areas to avoid are usually the boys’ legs during dune-bashing, so obey the guide’s instruction on where to sit. Sightlines are good – in city tours you can see out large windows, and in desert tours everyone gets a window to the sands. In short: pick a front or middle seat on the bus for best views, and in 4x4s expect safe, comfortable seating with seatbelts; there is no general-admission floor or stage seating to worry about.
Getting There and Parking
Arabian Adventures itself has no theme-park style address – most of its tours pick you up. For Abu Dhabi tours, they often meet guests directly at hotels or at designated meeting points (like major hotels or attractions). If you are arranging to go to one of their offices, note two phone lines: the Dubai office on Sheikh Zayed Road (Emirates Holidays Building) and an Abu Dhabi office at Al Muraf Building on Hamdan Street . However, most travelers simply wait in their hotel lobby at the appointed time. If you do drive, the best approach is to park at the meeting location (conference center, hotel, or rest stop) – parking is usually available but rates vary. For example, tours from Dubai often pause at the highway “Last Exit” station (Exit 53 on E11) which has free or nominal parking and restaurants . In Abu Dhabi City, nearby hotels like Emirates Palace, Ritz-Carlton or downtown malls have parking. Note that Arabian Adventures vehicles themselves cannot accommodate visitor cars during desert trips, so you typically leave your car parked at start and return to it later. Public transit: Abu Dhabi has a bus network but no metro; if you must, take a taxi or coach to a central hotel or the city’s central bus station, where you can connect. Rideshare (Careem, Uber) are widely available in Abu Dhabi and can drop you at the right hotel or Landmark (tell the driver which hotel or point to meet). If coming by train or coach from Dubai, arrive at Abu Dhabi central bus station or hotel; for Dubai tours, Dubai Metro runs to near key hotels (e.g. JW Marriott Marquis) where Arabian Adventures has desks. In summary: let the tour handle transfers (pick-up is generally included). If you go on foot or by car, aim for major hotels in downtown (with guest parking) or known landmarks. Plan to join the group in Abu Dhabi city center or at pre-arranged stops, not in remote desert locations.
Inside the Venue
“Inside” an Arabian Adventures experience means boarding vehicles and camps rather than entering a building. On boarding, expect friendly check-in and a quick safety briefing (including courtesy for seat-belts). There is minimal security: tours never feature major baggage checks, but you may sign a liability waiver for safaris (by law for adventure activities) . Guides and staff greet you with refreshments on many tours. During a city tour, en route you’ll be offered water, tea or soft drinks, and restrooms are available at stops like the Last Exit station . For desert evenings, complimentary Arabic coffee, tea and cold drinks (and sometimes lemonade or water) are served. Buffets typically include Arabic mezze and a barbecue dinner under the stars. Alcoholic drinks are not served openly during Ramadan or religious holidays , but many evening tours normally include soft drinks (and wine/beer at premium camps outside restricted periods) . Camps feature Bonfire gatherings with seating (floor cushions or chairs) and shows. Toilets at camps have running water and showers in overnight tours , so restroom needs are met. Merchandise shops do not exist on-site, but sometimes nearby camps sell souvenirs; otherwise, bring your camera and small personal items. The atmosphere is relaxed and festive – expect folk music or DJ sound systems for dancing at night, but no loud club speakers that intrude on wildlife. If you bring your mobile device, know that cell coverage is generally good even in desert; Wi-Fi is not provided, so set your phone to roaming or have a local SIM. If you have questions during the tour, guides are very approachable: they share local lore, history and engage with the group (often speaking multiple languages except desert safaris which are English-only ). In summary, inside an Arabian Adventures “venue” you’ll find comfortable AC transportation, camps with basic amenities, plentiful food and drink, and friendly service – an immersive and safe adventure rather than a fixed location experience.
Nearby Amenities
Since tours span wide areas, “nearby” depends on the specific itinerary. In Abu Dhabi city, meeting points are often at luxury hotels or cultural stops. Near the Corniche or Grand Mosque, you’ll find hotel restaurants (such as at Emirates Palace or Marriott hotels) open all day. If on the Abu Dhabi city tour, a key stop is Yas Mall or Louvre (during optional free time) – both have dozens of cafes and fast-food outlets. The common highway stop “Last Exit” has multiple food trucks and mini-markets for snacks or restroom breaks. Most starting hotels in Abu Dhabi (e.g. The St. Regis Saadiyat, Shangri-La Qaryat al Beri, Rosewood) offer high-end dining and bars, so arriving early can let you enjoy morning coffee on the terrace. Nearby hotels to consider: in downtown Abu Dhabi, major ones include Emirates Palace, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Sofitel Corniche and Hilton Capital Gate – these are often pick-up points and have restaurants/bars suitable for pre-tour meals. Late-night amenities: Arabian Adventures logistics usually ensure tours return by evening, but if you finish late near a mall (like YAS Mall or Galleria Mall), taxis and rideshares remain available until midnight or later. If you plan to stay overnight, many visitors choose hotels along the Corniche or near the airport (Ramada Abu Dhabi Grand). For quick eats before a tour, fast-food chains (McDonald’s, Costa Coffee) are near most major hotels. In short: plan to dine at or near your hotel before a day tour; use tour-provided stops for restroom and snacks. When a tour ends, major Abu Dhabi hotels and city center restaurants are conveniently nearby for anything you might need.
What Makes This Venue Special
Arabian Adventures is special not for a building but for the cultural and experiential “destinations” it creates. It offers unique access and authenticity that sets it apart. For one, it has exclusive permission to run safaris in protected reserves (such as the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve) , ensuring guests see unspoiled nature and wildlife like gazelles and oryx . The company’s long history (since 1987) means it helped shape UAE tourism traditions: its safari camps mimic Bedouin heritage with modern comfort, and staff offer real insights into local culture . Architecturally or physically, the desert camps are permanent luxury tent encampments with proper facilities – one reviewer specifically praised “very nice and comfortable” camps with great toilets , a distinction compared to more ad-hoc camp setups. Arabian Adventures excels at integrating cultural traditions into each outing: henna art, Arabic coffee rituals, tanoura dancers and fire-knife performances bring Emirati flavor to the experience . Famous “moments” for guests include riding camels at sunset and camping alone under endless stars – one visitor described an evening “alone in the desert” as truly “indescribable” . Locals and travel writers often commend the company’s expert guides – these guides not only drive skillfully through dunes but also double as photographers and storytellers, making tours informative and fun . The cultural significance lies in how Arabian Adventures introduced the world to authentic Abu Dhabi travel: rather than packaged theme park experiences, guests get an insider view of Bedouin heritage and modern Emirati life on city tours. Finally, its role supporting sustainability – donating part of fees to desert preservation – shows a commitment to the community. Artists and audiences in the region love Arabian Adventures because it reliably delivers high-quality, personalized experiences that blend luxury and adventure with a genuine taste of local tradition.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The company provides child and booster seats (must request when booking) . However, many tours involve desert terrain or lengthy walks; wheelchair tours are very limited. If you have mobility concerns or need an accessible vehicle for a city tour, contact Arabian Adventures in advance – they may arrange vans with lifts for sightseeing tours, but off-road desert trips are generally not wheelchair-friendly. Pregnant women or those with health issues should inform the operator ahead of time; adjustments (skipping dune bashing, for example) can be made .
What to Bring: For desert tours, pack loose, breathable clothing. Wear closed-toe shoes (not flip-flops) and a light sweater for cool evenings . Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen for daytime. A small backpack for camera, ID, and cash (AED) for tips or optional purchases is useful. Also carry a phone with data or local SIM for communication; camps have no Wi-Fi. If your tour includes mosque visits, women will be given free abayas on arrival, but men should wear long pants and women should avoid tight or sleeveless clothes .
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Arriving late is a frequent issue – always be at the pickup point 10–15 minutes before scheduled time. If your itinerary has Abu Dhabi hotel pickup, wait in the lobby at the confirmed time. Don’t underestimate the heat; skipping water or staying under-dressed can make desert tours miserable. Also respect local customs: don’t wear revealing attire off-beach, avoid public displays of affection, and ask permission before photographing people (especially Emirati women) . If visiting the Grand Mosque, don’t enter with a camera bag or uncovered limbs – dress modestly as instructed; it’s better to let guides provide the standard veil rather than face denied entry . Also, familiarize yourself with the cancellation cutoff (24-hour notice) – rebooking can be tricky if you miss that window.
Age Restrictions and Rules: Children under 3 often ride free in a parent’s lap (inform the company), while age 3–11 are considered children (and should use booster seats) . Most desert safaris only admit children 3 years and older for safety. Teenagers and adults share the same equipment. Beware that alcohol is not permitted on safari during Ramadan or public holidays (and must not be drunk in public during fasting hours) . Smoking is blocked at religious and indoor venues. The legal drinking age in UAE is 21, so you must be 21+ to consume alcohol on any premium tour.
At the Tour: Follow your guide’s lead. Before dune bashing, read any safety cards and buckle up. Don’t stand up or move around in moving vehicles. Take photos openly at commercial spots, but avoid restricted zones (military, oil facilities) which guides will navigate around. When at the camp enjoy the entertainment – clapping and participation are welcome. Feel free to enjoy the barbecue, but do not drink alcohol outdoors if it is Ramadan or in sight of men and children. Tipping is customary: around 10–20 AED per person for guides and drivers is appreciated if you enjoyed the trip.
Enhanced Experience Tips: Choose evening safaris for the cooler weather and dramatic sunsets; avoid midday tours in summer. Book private or small-group tours if you prefer a personalized pace (guides can take extra photos and stop for more breaks). Ask your guide for local anecdotes – they often share fun facts beyond the factual tour narration. For the best photography, sit on the left side of the vehicle if the sun will be on your right. And don’t leave without seeing the sunset – the transfer back often includes a scenic viewpoint. Always carry bottled water on you for rehydration. Finally, relax and enjoy the “Arabian hospitality”: engineers or staff may call ahead and host you personally – many past visitors were delighted by small gestures like being greeted with Arabic coffee or being sung happy birthday in Arabic!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a tour with Arabian Adventures?
You can book Arabian Adventures tours online through their official site, by calling their toll-free number in the UAE (+971 800 272 2426), or through hotel tour desks and travel agents. Walk-in bookings can be arranged at their Dubai or Abu Dhabi offices, but most visitors schedule in advance. Tours can also be booked via reputable travel agencies or by emailing their reservations team. It’s best to book as early as possible for popular dates and produce a confirmation email or voucher when requested.
What is the price range for Arabian Adventures tours?
Prices vary by tour type and inclusions. For example, a shared Abu Dhabi city tour starts around £64 per person , while a standard shared Dubai desert safari starts at roughly AED 349 (about US$95) including hotel transfers, dinner and drinks . Private or VIP tours cost more. Packages involving premium camps, alcohol, or exclusive vehicles have higher rates. Seasonal packages (Ramadan Iftar, New Year’s specials) are similarly premium. Always check the official site or authorized seller, and expect to pay per person (with children’s rates lower).
Can I buy tickets at a box office or do door sales?
Arabian Adventures does not have a street-facing ticket booth like a theater. All “tickets” are tour bookings. You generally reserve in advance, not by buying at the door (although sometimes last-minute seats may be available if capacity allows). The main ways to get a spot are online, by phone or via a hotel tour desk. In rare cases, you could inquire at their Dubai or Abu Dhabi office day-of to see if any seats opened up, but this is not guaranteed. This is why planning ahead is recommended.
Where do the tours depart and how do I get there?
Most tours include pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or a central meeting point in Abu Dhabi or Dubai. You usually do not have to go to the office unless arranging private group logistics. If you need to reach a meeting point yourself, have your driver head to the specified hotel or attraction name (for example, a downtown Abu Dhabi hotel lobby or the Yas Mall parking area) and meet at the arranged time. If driving on your own, park at the hotel or nearby public parking lot; many tour guests simply meet in hotel lobbies. Taxis and ride-shares (Careem/Uber) work fine – just tell the driver the hotel or stop name provided in your confirmation. Abu Dhabi’s public bus system exists but is not used for tour transfers.
Is parking available if I drive to the tour meeting point?
Yes, but it depends on where you meet. If meeting at a hotel, they usually have guest parking (self or valet). If meeting at a highway rest stop like “Last Exit” (commonly used on desert tours), public parking is free or very cheap. If meeting at museums or malls (like Louvre or Yas Mall on city tours), use their visitor parking lots (fees are minimal). It’s safe to park at these official lots. Note that your car will typically remain there until after the tour, as desert vehicles go off-road without accompanying cars. If in doubt, ask the tour operator which location to use and they can advise on the nearest car park.
Are the safari vehicles safe and comfortable for children?
Yes. Arabian Adventures uses modern 4x4 Land Cruisers with seat belts. All passengers are required to buckle up . For children, they provide special car seats or booster cushions if requested in advance . The vehicles are air-conditioned, and the drivers are trained to drive safely on dunes. Younger children must use the provided seats and typically ride in their own vehicle (an exclusive vehicle if very young) . It is comfortable for families, but be aware that desert roads are bumpy – if a child is prone to motion sickness, consider medication. Overall, reviewers say their kids felt secure and enjoyed the camel rides and camp activities.
What is the dress code for tours?
Dress modestly. UAE customs require covering shoulders and knees when in public areas or religious sites . For desert safaris, light, loose clothing is best (cotton or linen). A scarf or shawl can protect you from sun and sand. Women visiting the Grand Mosque must cover hair, if not wearing abaya – but don’t worry, the mosque provides free abayas and headscarves at entrance. Men should wear long pants (no shorts) for mosque visits . Sturdy closed-toe shoes are recommended for dunes – flip-flops are not advised. At night, desert temperatures drop, so carry a light jacket. Avoid transparent or very tight clothing anywhere; as a rule, beachwear is only for beach clubs or hotel pools, not on desert or city tours.
Are there any age restrictions for the tours?
Yes. Arabian Adventures generally requires children to be at least about 3 years old to join a desert safari (for safety and accommodation) . Kids 3–11 are charged a child rate and use booster seats, while 12 and over are typically treated as adults . However, infants (under 1 year) may sometimes ride free on a parent’s lap or be required to have a seat. Specific programs (like cultural tours or cruises) may have their own rules – always check the tour details. Also note that pregnant women or those with serious health issues should check with the company first; alternate arrangements (like skipping off-road segments) can often be made .
Can I take photos or videos during the tours?
Generally yes, photography is fine at most places – the tours are sightseeing by nature. You’ll want to capture the desert and landmarks. Just be respectful: do not photograph government buildings, military areas or petroleum facilities as they are off-limits . Also, always ask permission before taking close-ups of Emirati people or their children, as a courtesy. At the camps, feel free to film the entertainment, but turn off flash in the mosque. Video recording of music/dance shows is allowed but keep it non-intrusive. In summary, cameras and phones are welcome; guides can help you with good angles. Just follow the cultural rules and you’ll be fine.
What languages are the tours in?
City tours and attractions are often multilingual (guides speak English, Arabic, Hindi, etc.), but desert safaris are typically conducted in English . If you need a different language, inquire when booking – they have some support for major European and Asian languages on private tours. Otherwise, all briefing, commentary and communication throughout the excursion will be in English (and a bit of Arabic for cultural words). Many guides are bilingual or multilingual and can translate informally if needed.
What is Arabian Adventures’ cancellation policy?
The standard policy is to cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start, otherwise you may lose your payment . This means you must notify the company one day in advance to get a refund or reschedule. Some holiday specials or charters may have stricter rules (e.g. no changes within 48 hours). If you need flexibility, look for tour packages that allow free cancellation up to the day before. Always check your confirmation voucher or ask when booking – the guides themselves will reiterate the cut-off if you cancel late, the tour fee might not be refunded.
Does the tour include pick-up from my hotel?
Yes, almost always. Standard shared tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off at most Abu Dhabi city hotels (within city limits) . If you’re in Dubai taking a day trip, they may pick up in Dubai and drive to Abu Dhabi (for an “Abu Dhabi tour”). After booking, the operator will confirm your meeting time and point. Some tours may require guests to gather at a common hotel or station instead (especially larger groups). If you have special needs or are far from the city center, mention this so they can advise if extra charges apply or if you need to meet at a central location.
Is Wi-Fi or phone signal available on the tours?
Inside city buses or while at urban stops, you may catch hotel/restaurant Wi-Fi or use cellular data. However, once on the open highway or deep in the desert, Wi-Fi is not provided. The UAE has good 4G coverage even in remote areas, so your mobile should work, but signal can be patchy in the valleys of the dunes. It’s best not to rely on online navigation in the very desert – guides know the way. If you plan to stay connected, use an international roaming plan or a local SIM. Remember to turn off automatic hot-spotting if traveling in a 4x4 with other guests.
