About OceanAir Travels
OceanAir Travels is not an entertainment “venue” at all, but one of Abu Dhabi’s longest-running tour and travel companies. Founded in 2007, it was built around a team of local guides averaging over 15 years’ experience . The firm is fully licensed in the UAE (and even abroad) and positions itself as a boutique operator offering small-group cultural adventures. Indeed, industry listings describe OceanAir as “the Middle East’s premier travel curator” crafting authentic journeys across the region . Signature offerings include small “semi-private” tours (luxury minibuses capped at about 12 people) or fully private guided trips . OceanAir also runs its own luxury desert camps and heritage restaurants (such as the Michelin-recognized Al Khayma camps) in Abu Dhabi and Dubai , blending modern comfort with Emirati traditions. In short, OceanAir matters locally because it showcases Abu Dhabi’s culture from a guest perspective – think private desert safaris with BBQ dinners or intimate city tours of the Grand Mosque – all delivered with a local touch and high satisfaction goals .
Travel review sites consistently rank OceanAir among Abu Dhabi’s top tour operators (five-star ratings on TripAdvisor, with thousands of reviews) because of its focus on personalised service. The company’s guiding philosophy is to reveal “a world that only local people know” – taking visitors beyond the obvious attractions . This local expertise and luxury focus (private desert domes with pools, a fleet of 100+ modern vehicles and multilingual guides ) give OceanAir a unique character on Abu Dhabi’s tourism scene. Its managing director (Essam Al Salah) and team are avid proponents of Emirati culture, which is woven into every tour (from falconry demos to traditional camp culture). In effect, OceanAir acts as a cultural ambassador, making it a notable part of Abu Dhabi’s travel industry.
Tour Experiences and Programming
OceanAir Travels specialises in a wide range of Abu Dhabi tours. Daily city tours typically cover all the highlights – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace, the Corniche and Heritage Village – often with expert commentary. Desert safaris (both morning and evening departures) are a core product: these 4–6 hour trips include dune bashing, camel riding and sandboarding, capped by a Bedouin-style BBQ dinner with live entertainment . As one recent couple put it after an evening safari: “We thoroughly enjoyed our evening Desert Safari with BBQ dinner, camel farm visit, dune bashing, sand boarding… entertaining evening dancing! [Our] guide Azeez was very knowledgeable and so friendly” . Other adventurous programs include quad-bike or ATV tours on the dunes and watersports like jet-ski and parasailing along the Corniche – in fact, OceanAir’s best-selling activities include “#1-ranked desert safaris” and “thrilling jet ski excursions” .
Beyond single-day outings, OceanAir offers cross-emirate trips (Dubai–Abu Dhabi day excursions) and even multi-country itineraries (e.g. tours in Oman, Qatar and beyond ). Shore excursions for cruise passengers and airport transfers are also on the menu. Because Abu Dhabi hosts high-profile events, OceanAir sometimes tailors tours to special occasions (e.g. Formula 1 Grand Prix shuttles, Ramadan cultural programs), though the core offerings run year-round. From 2020–25 they've maintained operations through changing conditions – tours were briefly suspended during global restrictions but have since resumed daily schedules (with smaller group sizes for safety).
In practical terms, OceanAir’s tours run every day (especially in the October–April high season when the weather is cool). Typical start times are early morning for city sightseeing, and late afternoon (around 3–4 pm) for desert safaris, so that the dinner coincides with sunset. Tours often include pickup from major Abu Dhabi hotels (and sometimes from Dubai for combined trips). Return after desert sunsets is usually around 8–9 pm. Ticket fares vary by tour type and group size, but for reference many Abu Dhabi programs are priced in the mid-range. For example, a half-day city tour currently runs from about US$77 per person and an evening desert safari from about US$86 [discounted from higher rates] .
Tickets and Booking
There is no box office for OceanAir – instead, customers book tours online or through travel agencies, or by contacting the company directly by phone or email. Popular tours can sell out, so the best strategy is to reserve seats early, especially in peak months (November to March). Tickets typically go on sale several months in advance. Bookings are often arranged via the company’s official website or via trusted booking platforms (with instant confirmation available ). Pricing is tiered by adult/child and by private versus group tours. Group tours (up to ~12 people) are more affordable, while fully private tours or VIP upgrades cost extra.
In general, tour prices are usually quoted in USD (or AED) and include VAT. The current range for standard Abu Dhabi tours is roughly $30–$100 per person, with special multi-day or luxury packages costing more . Many sellers advertise a “from” price (e.g. desert safari from ~$115, discounted to ~$86 ). OceanAir occasionally offers promotions or off-season discounts, but the easiest way to see current pricing is to request a quote through the company’s channels (or check reputable tour-booking sites). If you’re in Abu Dhabi, you could also call or visit OceanAir’s Dubai office to book: their registered address is 10th Floor, Sobha Sapphire, Business Bay, Dubai (however, tours in Abu Dhabi do not have a local walk-in office).
As a booking tip, ask about seasonal surcharges (some tours cost more on Fridays or during holidays). Note that many travellers book through third parties (e.g. hotel desks or online agencies). If using a third party, ensure you receive a confirmation with meeting details. For overstaw (same day re-saw?), sorry. Finally, check the cancellation policy: OceanAir generally allows refund or rebook with notice (policies may vary by tour), so confirm at time of booking in case plans change.
Seating Arrangements and Vehicles
OceanAir uses comfortable air-conditioned vehicles for all tours. Private city tours and transfers are typically conducted in luxury minibuses or sedans, each equipped with reclining seats and belts. For desert tours and off-road adventures, rigid 4×4 vehicles (like Toyota Land Cruisers) are used – these are specially tied-down and usually seat up to 5–6 passengers in the rear. The company advertises “Semi-Private” tours in luxury minibuses (max 12 people) , meaning that each tour group is kept small. If you book privately, you can even charter a car or minivan for just your own party.
Since there are no fixed “seat numbers,” actual seating is on a first-come basis. For the best views in the desert, you may want to request a front seat in the Land Cruiser (though drivers rotate for safety during dune bashing). Note that the dash of the jeep is an exciting place to snap sunrise photos if the guide permits. All vehicles have panoramic windows and robust suspension, and the tour staff often play guided commentary or music during transit. On-board amenities typically include bottled water; on longer drives there will be planned restroom stops. Some large coaches and RVs in OceanAir’s fleet also feature USB charging ports, though service can be spotty in remote areas. Overall, the seating is geared toward leisure travel – wide seats, ample legroom (especially in 12-seaters), and luggage space underneath. If you have special needs (e.g. elderly or very tall individuals), it’s best to mention this when booking so the appropriate vehicle can be arranged.
Getting There and Parking
OceanAir’s stated office location is actually in Dubai (Sobha Sapphire building, Business Bay ). There is no public branch office in Abu Dhabi that tourists visit. Most visitors to Abu Dhabi tours are picked up at their hotels or meet at a designated spot in the city. When you book a tour, the company will give you the specific meeting point or pickup instructions. For example, many Abu Dhabi city tours will pick up guests from downtown hotels or even from the Port Zayed cruise terminal . If you’re taking a desert safari, the meeting point is often on the edge of Abu Dhabi (for instance at the Equestrian Club area); these sites usually have free parking for tour vehicles.
If you do happen to drive yourself: downtown Abu Dhabi is well-connected by wide roads and there are public parking lots near hotels and malls. Taxis and rideshares (Uber/Careem) can drop guests directly at the meeting location – just verify the address with OceanAir. In Business Bay (Dubai), the Sobha Sapphire building has visitor parking (often via valet or gate pass). However, note that most Abu Dhabi tour packages include pick-up and drop-off by minibus, so independent travel to parking lots is rarely needed unless arranging your own meeting. If you do drive, parking in major hotels or restaurants usually costs a few dirhams per hour. Late-night departures (e.g. returning from dinner safaris) may involve carpool or hotel drop-off, which OceanAir often offers from central points.
Inside the Experience
While not a conventional “venue,” guests should anticipate a tourist-friendly travel environment inside every OceanAir excursion. Before boarding, staff will check arrival against reservation, and basic baggage/snacks (nothing else needs formal security screening). Guides make the atmosphere lively: they commonly hand out dates and water on desert trips, and may even pose for group photos. In fact, travellers often comment on the personal touch – for example, one review noted that their driver Hamza went “beyond his way to help all of the travelers with the photos” during the safari .
On-board the vehicle, expect air-conditioning (a must in summer). The ambience is friendly and informal – guides may play Arabic music or share stories. Bathrooms on board are typically small (often just a chemical toilet in larger coaches) but tours always pause en route for restroom breaks in safe areas. The tour pace prioritises comfort: for instance, if a group has children, the car will stop for ice cream or snacks if needed. Once at attraction stops (like the Mosque or Heritage Village), you’ll find visitor centres and restrooms to freshen up.
On overnight or camp experiences, cabins or tents are arranged by OceanAir at heritage-style villages (e.g. Al Badya Village or Al Marmoom Domes). These are modest luxury — featuring Bedouin decor, mats and mattresses, plus basic en-suite toilets and showers at the campsite. Evening entertainment (belly dancing, fire shows, henna painting) is provided outdoors under lantern light. A themed restaurant serves traditional emirate cuisine (hot insult, lamb ouzi, fresh juices) if included. There are small shops selling souvenirs and photography backdrops in the camp. Wi-Fi is rarely available far from cities, but mobile coverage often works to send quick updates. Importantly, the whole experience is designed to be accessible and relaxed: guides speak clearly, answer questions, and frequently repeat instructions (e.g. “fasten your seatbelt,” “hold on tight for the dunes,” etc.).
Nearby Amenities
While OceanAir’s core product is tours (not a physical entertainment complex), planning your visit to Abu Dhabi allows you to take advantage of nearby dining and hotels especially before/after an excursion. Many guests stay at 4–5 star hotels along the Corniche or Yas Island – these range from upscale (Emirates Palace, The Ritz-Carlton) to the more budget-friendly Premier Inn (where pickup may occur ). Around these areas are restaurants serving international cuisines (Italian, Indian, Arabic) and casual cafés; most headers such as *Carpe Diem or Sea Fu offer pre-tour meals. For quick bites, fast-food outlets and coffee shops line major boulevards and malls. {The Jaw on Yas-$*$ or *Kuria*??} [No linking to be safe.] For drinks, note that Abu Dhabi bars are limited to hotel lounges (e.g. the Sky Lobby Bar at the Hyatt), since public pubs are mostly inside private venues.
If you have time before a tour starts, consider dining at a local emirate cuisine restaurant – there are a growing number of authentic Emirati spots (e.g. qahwa restaurants near the dam). Late-night transportation is easy: Uber/Careem operate 24/7, and taxis have set fares from the airport or city. Many hotels run their own shuttle buses too. Abu Dhabi has a clean and modern bus system; lines like the CN1 (connecting the airport, tourist club, Marina Mall) can get you near central meeting points within an hour. Finally, always arrive at least 15–30 minutes early to your tour pickup location (traffic can be heavy). If you’re driving yourself to the meeting point, allow extra time to find parking – large hotels or shopping centres often charge 5–10 AED for 2–3 hours.
What Makes OceanAir Travels Special
OceanAir sets itself apart through its blend of local authenticity and personalized service. Its guides are often natives of the region (multilingual and passionate about culture), and they go out of their way to please. For example, one guest was impressed that “our driver Hamza… was so friendly and fun” and even “has great skills with the camera” – “he went beyond his way to help… with photos and videos” during a desert safari . Another praised how guided tours are meticulously planned: “Every single thing is well planned and thought of” by guide Azeem, who pointed out regional monuments en route . These kinds of personal touches (friendly guides by name, extra photo stops at sunset ) give OceanAir’s offerings a reputation for excellence.
Architecturally, the company’s own venues (like Al Khayma Heritage Camp) celebrate Emirati style with traditional tents and copper accents. Cultural immersion is a priority: tours may include falcon-handling demonstrations, desert star-gazing, and discussions of local history. The commitment to heritage is also academic – OceanAir operates heritage restaurants awarded Michelin accolades in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai , showcasing Emirati cuisine. Economically, it contributes by curating so many tours that involve local communities – from souvenir cottage industries to farm stays – thus cycling tourism revenue into the UAE’s cultural sector.
Finally, both artists (guides) and travellers seem to love OceanAir because it offers the “best of both worlds”: modern comforts (air-conditioned coaches, luxury campsites) fused with off-the-beaten-path authenticity. On TripAdvisor, customers often say their Abu Dhabi visit was “incomplete without” an OceanAir tour – a testament to the memorable experiences (dune-bashing fun, camel rides and traditional entertainment) that have become part of the local tourism lore . In short, OceanAir Travels isn’t just a logistics provider, but a brand that celebrates and preserves the spirit of Abu Dhabi, making it uniquely special in the capital’s visitor landscape.
Visitor Tips and Information
Best booking times: Tours run every day in cool months (roughly October–May). If you plan to travel in peak season (winter holiday weeks or during popular events), book at least 1–2 months in advance. Desert safaris depart before sunset and city tours early morning. Check current schedules online as timings can vary by season.
Dress code: Wear modest but comfortable clothing. For mosque visits or cultural tours, men should wear long trousers (no shorts) and women should cover shoulders and knees (abayas or modest dresses are fine). On desert tours, light layers are advised (it can cool off after sunset). Closed shoes or sneakers are recommended for all outdoor activities – sandals can slip during dune rides. Bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and a light jacket for winter nights.
Food and drink: Standard tours include snacks and drinks: desert safaris typically provide bottled water and a full BBQ buffet countertop with sodas, whereas city tours often include a coffee/tea break. Special dietary requests (vegetarian, etc.) can usually be accommodated with advance notice. Abu Dhabi law forbids alcohol at public tours (and the buffet is halal), so do not expect alcoholic drinks unless on your own before/after the tour.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible tours are available . OceanAir advertises specific accessible/wheelchair-friendly experiences, and many vehicles are equipped for passengers with mobility needs. Notify the company when booking if access is required.
Language: Tours are conducted in English by default. However, OceanAir’s guides are multilingual – in practice they often speak Arabic, English, German, and even Spanish, Italian or French on request . You can ask for a guide fluent in your language when booking.
Items to bring: Don’t forget your camera (guides love to take photos of the group!). Carry a small daypack for personal items. While tour price covers most amenities, you may wish to bring a little extra cash in AED for souvenirs and gratuities. A phone power bank is handy if you’ll be taking lots of photos.
Health and safety: Desert driving involves fast dune bashing – those with back problems or serious health issues might opt out of that part. Pregnant women should check with their doctor first. All drivers are trained and vehicles have seat belts. Tour companies adhere to UAE safety regulations.
Arrival time: Be prompt. OceanAir recommends arriving at rendezvous points ~15 minutes early to ensure an on-time departure. Most pickup is included from hotels or meeting points in Abu Dhabi . If you are self-driving, note down the meeting address carefully.
General advice: One common tip is to double-check meeting locations, as some tours use multiple pick-up spots (Abu Dhabi vs Dubai). Also, stay hydrated and be mentally prepared for a bit of adventure – the desert can be bouncy but thrilling. Respect local customs (i.e. ask before taking photos of people). Tipping guides or drivers (around 5–10% of tour cost) is customary if service was good. Finally, if you have any doubts about schedules or amenities, don’t hesitate to contact OceanAir’s customer service – they are known for helpful, friendly support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of tours and experiences does OceanAir Travels offer in Abu Dhabi?
OceanAir provides a broad range of Abu Dhabi tours. The most popular include guided City Sightseeing tours (covering mosques, palaces, the Corniche, etc.) and Off-Road Desert Safaris (with dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding and BBQ dinner). They also offer water-based tours (jet-ski, parasailing), cultural excursions (heritage camps and campsites), and multi-day packages (e.g. Oman trips). Special transfers (like cruise shore excursions) are available too. In short, expect comprehensive desert and city adventure tours tailored to tourists.
How much do OceanAir tours cost?
Prices vary by tour length and options. Generally, a half-day city tour might cost on the order of US$60–80, while a 6-hour evening desert safari is around US$86 per adult (special discounts apply; full price was ~$115) . Longer multi-day trips and private charters cost more. Children under a certain age (usually 4-6) often ride free or at reduced rates. Always check the current rates for your specific tour package and season.
How and where can I buy tickets for an OceanAir tour?
You can book directly through the OceanAir Travels website or app (email/WhatsApp inquiries also work). The company also partners with online travel agencies and hotel booking desks. There is no in-venue box office; tour reservations are handled electronically. After booking, you’ll receive confirmation with meeting details. It’s wise to book in advance online (especially for popular dates). If you’re already in the UAE, you can call their office in Dubai to arrange a tour in Abu Dhabi (see address below). No walk-up tickets are typically sold at sites.
When should I book my tour with OceanAir Travels?
OceanAir recommends booking as early as possible for popular tours and busy periods. Many standard tours are available year-round, so you can often book a few weeks in advance during off-peak times. In high-season (winter) or around holidays, book 1–3 months ahead to ensure availability. Tours often sell out on short notice, especially large desert safaris on weekends. Early booking also helps secure any discounts or promotional prices.
Where is OceanAir Travels’ office?
OceanAir’s registered office is actually in Dubai (Sobha Sapphire Building, 10th Floor, Business Bay, Dubai) . There is no walk-in ticket office in Abu Dhabi. All tours in Abu Dhabi use local meeting points. If you need to visit their headquarters for any reason, you’d go to the Dubai address. Otherwise, tours in Abu Dhabi just require you to be at the pickup location on time ( usually your hotel or a designated spot in the city ).
Where do I meet up for an OceanAir tour?
OceanAir usually arranges hotel pick-up in Abu Dhabi. For example, for a city tour they will pick up guests from most Abu Dhabi hotels or the cruise terminal . The exact meeting location depends on your booking – check your confirmation for details. In some cases you may be asked to meet at a central spot (like the main bus station or tour operator office area). If you can drive there, ensure you arrive 10–15 minutes early; meeting points often have ample parking or valet service. The key is to reconfirm the “meeting point” in advance with OceanAir so you know exactly where to go.
How many people are in each tour group or vehicle?
OceanAir primarily runs small-group tours. Their semi-private tours use minibuses limited to about 12 passengers . If you book a full private tour, then only your party is on the vehicle. During the tour you share the ride only with your confirmed group — you won’t be unexpectedly joined by strangers beyond the announced tour capacity. This makes the experience feel more personal and uncrowded.
Are children allowed on the tours?
Absolutely. OceanAir tours are family-friendly. In fact, many reviews highlight how well kids enjoy the desert safari. One family noted “all of us had fun, including our kids” and praised the staff’s kindness . There is no strict age limit, and infants or toddlers often ride free. Still, parents should use common sense for very young children or if the child is uncomfortable with bouncing on dunes. Car seats or boosters are generally not provided on shared vans (you may request a private transfer for full child safety seats).
Is OceanAir’s desert safari wheelchair accessible?
Yes. OceanAir advertises accessible and wheelchair-friendly tours . They have vehicles and itineraries designed for passengers with mobility challenges. It’s important to inform them in advance if a wheelchair user will be joining, so they can arrange the proper vehicle (ramp or lift-equipped vans are available). The company’s whole mission emphasizes “100% customer satisfaction,” including guests who need extra assistance .
What languages do the tour guides speak?
Guides are multilingual. All tours are offered in English by default, but guides often speak several European languages as well. For instance, one tour listing indicates pickups with guides fluent in Italian, English, French, German, Spanish and Portuguese . If you prefer a specific language (German, Japanese, etc.), request it at booking; OceanAir will try to assign a suitable guide if available. Arabic-speaking guides are always on staff, and they’ll typically provide translation or interpretation in other languages as needed.
Does the tour price include food and drinks?
Most full-day and evening tours include refreshments. For example, the desert safari package comes with a live BBQ buffet (soft drinks, water, tea/coffee and Arabic snacks like dates) . City tours often include bottled water and may have a scheduled coffee break (for instance at a local café or museum). However, alcohol is not included – UAE tours are strictly non-alcoholic. If you have special dietary needs (vegetarian, halal), inform OceanAir when booking; they can usually accommodate basic requests on their buffet menus.
What should I wear and bring on an OceanAir tour?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is key. In summer months, light cottons and sun-protection are essential; in winter months (Dec–Feb), evenings can be cool so bring a light jacket. Closed-toe shoes are recommended, especially for dunes or walking tours. For mosque visits, shoulders and knees should be covered. Sunblock, a hat and sunglasses are sensible on any desert or midday tour. Don’t forget a camera (many guides actively take photos for guests, as noted by one reviewer who praised the guide’s photography skills) . Pack a small daypack for personal items; everything else you need will be provided (drinks, dinner, etc.). Bring your ID or passport on tour (required for entry into some attractions).
Can I request a private or custom tour?
Yes. OceanAir offers fully private tours and custom itineraries. The default tours are small group style, but you can upgrade to a private experience (just your party and guide/driver) for additional cost. The company explicitly mentions the ability to book an “exclusive private tour” with a multilingual guide . Custom tour construction (different routes, extra stops, luxury vehicle) is possible; just contact their sales team to discuss options. Private tours are ideal for families or VIP trips.
Are there any age restrictions or special requirements?
There are generally no strict age limits. As mentioned, children and even infants are often accommodated (usually free or at reduced rate for very young kids). The only limitations would be physical: it’s wise for anyone with mobility issues to use the accessible tours, and for those with health concerns (like heart problems or pregnancy) to skip the more extreme activities (e.g. dune-bashing). Other than that, tours are open to “everyone of all ages” . You should just be able to climb on/off the tour vehicle and participate normally.
Is public transportation available to the tour meeting points?
OceanAir arranges pickup, so public transit isn’t usually needed to get to a meeting point. However, travelers sometimes go on their own to a central location. Abu Dhabi has a regular city bus network (routes like X80 and others run near major attractions) and a network of black-and-yellow taxis. Rideshare apps (Uber, Careem) also work well. If your tour starts at a hotel or popular spot (like Yas Mall or Corniche), any taxi will know to drop you there. Just check with OceanAir which address to use. Note that there is no metro or subway in Abu Dhabi, so road transport is the main option. In short, your safest bet is to use the provided tour pickup – it’s included in the tour price and saves you navigation effort.
What is OceanAir Travels’ cancellation or refund policy?
Specific cancellation terms can vary by tour. In general, as a licensed tour operator OceanAir follows a policy that allows free cancellation up to a certain date (often 24–48 hours before the tour) with full refund. Closer cancellations may incur a fee or no refund. It is best to confirm the exact policy when booking (they will provide details on your e-ticket). Some third-party sellers (if you book through them) also have their own refund rules. If your plans change, contact OceanAir as soon as possible to see if you can reschedule or receive a credit. They’ve handled changes in the past (pandemic reschedules, etc.) as mentioned in reviews.
