About Orient Tours
Orient Tours is a well-established Dubai-based tour operator (Destination Management Company) known for high-quality, personalized travel experiences . Founded in 1982 by H.E. Sheikh Faisal Al Qassemi of the Sharjah Royal Family , it was among the first companies in the region licensed to conduct overland desert safaris . Today Orient Tours has branch offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and even Oman , and has a reputation as a market leader in Gulf tourism. It employs multilingual, professionally trained guides and drivers, and prides itself on innovation (it was the first operator in the Arabian Gulf to institute formal guide training programs) . In the industry it is often recognized by awards – for example, it won the UAE’s Leading Desert Safari Company title in 2018 and was consecutively named Dubai’s Leading Tour Operator (2020–2023) at the World Travel Awards . The company’s slogan (“There are tourists – then there are Orient Tourists”) reflects its focus on exclusive service. With over 100 staff members, Orient Tours is one of the region’s most respected DMCs .
Tours and Experiences
Orient Tours offers a wide range of guided outings and packages in Dubai and beyond. Signature experiences include Dubai city sightseeing tours, Abu Dhabi shore excursions (Grand Mosque, Louvre, Heritage Village, etc.), and beach/habitat trips to Fujairah or Hatta. In the desert it runs classic safaris (morning or evening dune drives, sandboarding and camel rides) followed by an authentic camp dinner. For example, the company’s “Al Awir Camp” desert safari promises “dune bashing, a sunset BBQ under the stars, camel rides, and live shows” (fire-dancing and tanoura) . Specialized tours include luxury dhow cruises with dinner, high-end city tours with private guides, and even foodie tours (Arabic street food trails, high tea at Burj Khalifa, etc.) or theme tours in Sharjah and Musandam. Orient Tours also handles custom overland expeditions – including cross-border Jeep tours from Dubai to Muscat in Oman – and corporate/group events or shopping excursions. It can coordinate cruise ship port tours and full travel packages as well . In general, city and cultural tours run daily (often multiple times per day), while desert safaris typically depart in the cooler hours of morning or late afternoon. Recurring holiday specials include Ramadan sightseeing and festive desert evenings, and tours run year-round (with climate-appropriate scheduling).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets and tour reservations can be booked online, through travel agents, or by calling Orient Tours directly. Many of the company’s packages are listed on Dubai’s official tourism portal or third-party platforms. For example, a Visit Dubai listing highlights Orient Tours with a 4.5★ rating (3,200+ reviews) . Pricing varies by tour type: shared large-group safaris often start around AED 200–300 per person, whereas private guided tours can cost several times more. For instance, a half-day private city tour is advertised at AED 1,485, whereas a shared economy morning desert safari starts from AED 208 . These “From” prices are per person on group tours; fully private tours charge per vehicle or group. For busy periods and popular itineraries (especially winter weekends and special events), it’s wise to reserve seats early. Payments and currency: tours are usually paid in AED; credit cards are commonly accepted, and many people book in advance online (some operators fillings tours quickly). For last-minute bookings, Orient Tours’ office and desert camp operate daily roughly 6:00–22:00 , so you can in person inquire or pay on site.
Group Size and Transportation
Orient Tours uses comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles for all excursions. Desert safaris employ Toyota Land Cruiser 4WDs (typically carrying about 6 passengers each) for dune driving . City tours and transfers use minibuses or shuttle vans (10–20 seats) or larger coaches as needed for big groups. In all vehicles, air-conditioning is standard for comfort in Dubai’s heat . Seating is not numbered on group tours, but generally front-row seats in the coach give the best visibility, and on 4x4’s any seat offers good views through large windows. Private tours or VIP charters (e.g. private 4x4 for your group) can be arranged for a higher fee. Shared safaris often mix travelers together – if you book multiple seats, you may share the ride with others up to the vehicle’s capacity. The tour guides will usually confirm names and itineraries before departure, and staff provide cold bottled water and sometimes light snacks on board (especially on longer tours).
Getting There and Parking
The Orient Tours headquarters is located in Latifa Tower on Sheikh Zayed Road (P.O. Box 61790, Dubai) . Major hotels (Emirates Towers, The Address Boulevard, Sofitel, etc.) are nearby. By public transport you can ride the Dubai Metro Red Line to Emirates Towers station – it’s only about a 5–10 minute walk to Latifa Tower . Multiple feeder buses stop along Sheikh Zayed Road at the tower; for example, routes 21, 21B, 98E, F11 and F28 serve the area . If you drive, Latifa Tower offers valet parking for visitors and some street parking around the block (paid parking on SZR is typically ~5 AED per hour). Rideshare taxis (Careem, Uber or regular Dubai taxis) can easily drop you at the tower entrance. If joining a tour from a hotel, most Orient Tours packages include free pickup and drop-off – simply confirm your pickup location and time when booking. Note that if you plan to meet at the desert pick-up point instead of a hotel, Orient Tours uses its own “Al Awir Camp” in the eastern outskirts of Dubai for evening safaris; that camp is open 6am–10pm daily .
Inside the Venue (On Tours)
For the office or camp check-in: Orient Tours’ Dubai office has a small reception area with brochures, and staff will verify your booking or ticket upon arrival. Most travelers, however, are collected by bus or 4x4 at their hotel lobby; in that case you simply board the vehicle and the guide will brief everyone once everyone is seated. During the tour expect the guides to narrate information about sites and ensure safety (all have first-aid training) .
In the desert camp and on vehicles: The desert camp is equipped with basic facilities – yes, there are restroom/toilet buildings , a dining hall and a stage area. Reviewers note the camp’s good hospitality and facilities (“Fantastic experience – good hospitality & facilities”) . Dinner is typically a buffet of Arabic and barbecue dishes served under outdoor tents, followed by live entertainment (belly-dancing, tanoura or fire performances) . If you stay overnight, the camp provides simple beds or mats in large tents. In vehicles you will usually have bottled water provided; on city tours occasional rest stops (malls or toilets) are made en route. Carry a small daypack for camera, phone, and extras. (Connectivity is usually good in the city, but in deep desert cellular signal may fade.) Merchandise: the camp has a small souvenir area where you can buy local crafts or photos. Note: smoking is typically only allowed in designated outdoor areas.
Nearby Amenities
While Orient Tours itself is a travel operator rather than a restaurant or hotel, its locations are convenient to many visitor amenities. At Latifa Tower and surrounding, you’ll find quick lounges and cafés – notably the Emirates Towers Hotel (connected by a short footbridge) has several restaurants and a Starbucks. The Dubai International Financial Centre (just to the south) offers many eateries as well. Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall area) is only about a 10-minute drive away , so it’s easy to combine an Orient Tours half-day with shopping or sightseeing nearby. After evening tours, hired transport will usually drop you at your hotel, so late-night travel options are plentiful (Dubai taxis and ride-share run 24/7, and the Metro/Tram operate until around midnight on weekdays). If you need parking near Latifa Tower, paid lots are available in adjacent buildings or street parking on SZR as noted. Airport: Dubai International Airport is roughly 20–25 minutes away by car.
What Makes This Operator Special
Orient Tours stands out for its combination of history, scale and service. It was founded by a member of the ruling family and has decades of experience – indeed, its president has been called a pioneer of tourism development in the UAE . Its longevity and royal backing give it a badge of reliability. The company has consistently won industry awards, from “Dubai’s Leading Tour Operator” (World Travel Awards 2020–2023) to recognition as a top desert safari provider . Travelers praise the professionalism of Orient’s guides and vehicles; one guest noted the “comfort of our air-conditioned vehicle” and smooth pickup service , while another mentioned a Spanish-speaking guide who was “very friendly, helpful and professional” . In effect, Orient Tours helped define Dubai’s safari and sightseeing tourism – its first licensed overland safaris in the 1980s set the template for later operators . Modern Orient Tours retains that adventurous spirit (early adoption of new tour routes like Oman and glamping) alongside meticulous organization, which is why many visitors and travel agents recommend it. As one satisfied reviewer put it, the campsite experience was “worth it” with “performers and facilities… superb” .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: While many Orient Tours experiences are outdoors and in rough terrain, the company provides some accessible features. The desert camp, for example, has reserved parking for wheelchair users . If you have mobility needs (wheelchair or otherwise), contact Orient Tours before booking – they advise inquiring about accessible trucks or assistance . Unlike large theme parks, these tours are not fully wheelchair-friendly, so advance notice is recommended.
Dress and Packing: Wear light, loose clothing for daytime (Dubai heat can get intense) but bring layers or a light jacket after sunset when desert nights cool off. Comfortable closed shoes or sandals are a must for dunes. Modest attire (covering shoulders/legs) is advisable if you’ll enter mosques or local markets. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat or sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle (even though bottled water is usually provided on tour). Also bring any personal items you might need: camera, phone charger/power bank, and – if on an overnight trip – toiletries for the camp’s bathrooms. Cash in AED is handy for tips or souvenirs. For dune driving, some travelers recommend motion-sickness pills if you’re prone to it. A towel or scarf can double as a head cover or for sand.
Timing and Weather: Morning or late-afternoon tours are cooler and often more pleasant than midday trips. In summer (May–Sept) Dubai can exceed 45°C (113°F), so plan outdoor tours very early or late. Winter (Nov–Mar) is peak season with ideal conditions. If your dates are flexible, aim for winter stars. Rain is rare but occasionally shuts down desert routing – in such cases Orient Tours will look to reschedule or alter the program.
Children and Special Situations: Kids are welcome – many families take desert safaris and city tours together. Infants and young children often ride free or at reduced rates, though stroller use is impractical in dunes. Youth should be securely seated. Pregnant women or participants with health conditions should avoid the bumpy dune-driving portions; inform the company of any restrictions. Tour guides typically accommodate vegetarian or allergic requests with advance notice, but options may be limited at the remote camp. Orient Tours tours often include hotel pick-up for convenience, so ask about child car seats if needed.
Money and Etiquette: No special customs fees apply until if you leave UAE (e.g. just entering Oman would need your passport). Tipping is customary if you’re satisfied with service – around AED 10–20 per person for the driver or guide is a common courtesy. Photography is permitted everywhere, though be respectful of local people and military bases. Alcohol policy: Dubai allows alcohol on such tours, but rules can change (especially during Ramadan), so it’s best to follow your guide’s instructions. Finally, keep pace with the group and follow safety briefings (e.g. deflating tires before dune bashing); Orient Tours staff are experienced and prioritize guest safety.
FAQ
What kinds of tours does Orient Tours offer and how often do they run?
Orient Tours runs a broad range of Dubai and UAE tours year-round. This includes daily city sightseeing tours (half-day or full-day), evening desert safaris, and day trips to Abu Dhabi (mosque, Grand Prix, Louvre, etc.), Hatta, Fujairah, Sharjah and even Musandam or Oman. Most tours depart once or twice per day, depending on demand. Private customized tours (at higher rates) can also be arranged on any date.
How do I book a tour with Orient Tours and what are the ticket prices?
You can book online through travel sites, via travel agents or by calling Orient Tours’ office. Prices vary by tour type and group size. A typical shared desert safari might cost around AED 200–300 per person, whereas a private guided city tour could cost over AED 1,000 for the vehicle. Special combos (like Abu Dhabi+Ferrari, or safari+dinner) have their own rates. Check exact fares when booking – many packages list “from AED X” which is per person in a shared group, and a higher price for a private tour.
Does Orient Tours pick up passengers from hotels?
Yes. Almost all Orient Tours packages (city tours, desert safaris, etc.) include complimentary pickup and drop-off at major Dubai hotels. When booking, you select your hotel as the meeting point. The guide/driver will usually call to confirm the time and may meet you in the lobby. If you prefer to go directly to their office or camp instead, that can sometimes be arranged (just specify it when you book). Hotel pickup removes the need to find transport on your own.
Where is the Orient Tours office and is there parking nearby?
The Orient Tours head office is on Sheikh Zayed Road at Latifa Tower in central Dubai . Visitors can use the building’s valet parking or find paid street parking nearby . The nearest metro is Emirates Towers (Red Line), about a 5–10 minute walk . Major hotels and DIFC restaurants are within a short taxi ride if you want a meal before/after your tour. If your tour involves the desert camp location, Orient Tours will direct you to their Al Awir Camp site in the dunes (main office checks are less common for group tours). After evening tours, you are usually dropped back at your hotel, so you needn’t worry about late-night parking.
What is the Orient Tours desert camp (Al Awir Camp) and where is it located?
Orient Tours’ Al Awir Camp is a permanent desert campsite used for evening safaris. It is located in the eastern outskirts of Dubai (around the Al Awir area), about 30–40 km from the city. The camp is open roughly 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily . When you join an Orient Tours safari, the program usually stops at this camp for the BBQ dinner and entertainment under the stars . Expect Western-style toilets, seated dining areas, and live shows (dancers, music) all set up right in the desert. The camp is known for good hospitality and facilities .
Are Orient Tours tours wheelchair accessible?
Orient Tours can accommodate some accessibility needs, but full wheelchair access is limited by the terrain. Their Arab Camp has reserved parking for reduced-mobility visitors . However, desert rides involve sand and uneven ground. It’s best to contact Orient Tours in advance to discuss your requirements (for example, they may offer an easier transfer vehicle or assistance) . Even so, standard safety and tour programs generally assume independent mobility, so plan accordingly.
Can I drink alcohol on an Orient Tours desert safari?
Alcohol regulations in Dubai are strict about public consumption, but on organized safaris it’s usually handled carefully. If your tour package includes adult beverages, they will only be served at the private camp under controlled circumstances (and the guide will advise if it’s part of your package). During Ramadan and other sensitive times, alcohol may be omitted altogether. In general, follow your guide’s instructions on this. If you have doubts, you can always skip it, and the evening meal (dinner buffet) will be the focus.
What languages do Orient Tours guides speak?
Orient Tours employs multilingual guides. English is guaranteed; many guides also speak Arabic, Hindi, or Japanese (given Orient Tours’ clientele), and they have guides fluent in European languages too. In fact, one traveler specifically noted a highly professional Spanish-speaking guide on their Dubai tour . When booking, you can often request a guide fluent in your language. It’s wise to confirm the guide’s language in advance for private tours.
What kind of food and drink is served on Orient Tours desert safaris?
A standard Orient Tours desert safari includes a full buffet dinner. You’ll typically get grilled meats (BBQ), rice, salads, breads and sweets – a mix of Arabic and international items. Dinner is included in the tour price. Non-alcoholic soft drinks are generally provided, and hot tea/coffee is available with dessert. (Alcoholic drinks are optional extras, as described above.) You can expect typical local cuisine – one review even praised the Dubai safari camp’s “good food and facilities” . If you have dietary restrictions (vegetarian, halal, etc.), mention it when booking; special meals may be accommodated.
Are restroom facilities available during the tours?
Yes. During a desert safari, there is typically a restroom break at a fixed rest area before the dunes, and the final camp has permanent toilets. Reviewers note that the Orient Tours camp has good facilities , meaning clean seated bathrooms. City tours using buses will usually stop at roadside restrooms or malls as needed. In short, you won’t be completely “out of reach” – the guides will pause for restroom breaks at convenient times.
Is there a dress code for Orient Tours activities?
No strict dress code is enforced, but it’s smart to dress comfortably and modestly. For desert tours, wear light long-sleeve shirts or T-shirts, long pants, and closed shoes or sturdy sandals to protect from sand and sun. A jacket or sweater is useful once the sun sets. If your tour visits cultural sites (mosques or local markets), you’ll need modest attire: cover shoulders, arms and legs. Women should have a headscarf handy for mosque visits. Avoid beachwear or shorts/skirts above the knee when touring cities, as a sign of respect.
Can I bring children on the tours and do they need a ticket?
Yes, children can join Orient Tours trips. Most companies allow infants and toddlers free or at a reduced rate, children usually count as one paying person or have a child discount. Check age limits before booking – very young infants may not be allowed on rougher rides (like dune bashing) for safety. Children should be secured in a proper child seat (often provided if requested), and you should reserve a seat for each child to sit in. In practice, many families take desert safaris; just plan for sun-protection and snacks for the little ones.
What is the best time of year to take an Orient Tours desert safari?
Winter (November through March) is ideal for desert tours, as daytime temperatures are mild. Nights are cool enough to enjoy campfires. In summer (April–September), midday heat can be extreme. If visiting in summer, choose the early morning or late evening safari to avoid peak sun. Orient Tours operates year-round, but in summer they emphasize sunrise or sunset departures for safety. Always bring plenty of sun protection and stay hydrated any time of year.
How are Orient Tours prices structured for shared vs private tours?
Orient Tours lists shared-group tour prices on a per-person basis (e.g. “From AED X per person” on their site) and private tour prices per vehicle. A shared desert safari might be AED 200–300 per person, but booking a private SUV or coach for just your party (private tour) could cost AED 1,000 and up. Similarly, private city tours often run in the thousands of AED, whereas joining a small-group city tour might cost a fraction of that. The VisitDubai entry and other booking pages clearly label “private tour” vs “small group” to distinguish the pricing.
What safety measures are in place for desert excursions?
Orient Tours prioritizes safety. Their 4WD vehicles are well-maintained for off-road driving. Guides are professionally trained in safety and first aid . Before dune driving, drivers deflate tires and drive cautiously. Seat belts should be worn at all times. The tour includes breaks to avoid exhaustion, and bottled water is provided. In the camp, fire safety measures are in place. For added security, Orient Tours follows Dubai’s tourism guidelines on maximum passengers and emergency protocols. If you have any concerns (medications, health issues), discuss them with your tour operator before departure.
What items are recommended to bring on an Orient Tours desert safari?
Bring sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat) as the desert sun is strong. Wear comfortable light clothes and sturdy shoes. It’s wise to pack a light jacket or long-sleeved top for after sunset, as desert temperatures drop. Carry a reusable water bottle (although water is supplied, staying extra hydrated helps). A small backpack for camera and personal items is useful. Binoculars or a camera are great for wildlife/landmarks. If you have motion sensitivity, consider seasickness/motion-sickness tablets for the dune driving. Don’t forget any personal medications. Leave valuables at the hotel; the tour times (usually 3–6 hours) are short enough not to need large bags.
