Pickup is one of the biggest comfort factors on a desert safari. Here is how it normally works so you can plan your day around it.
Hotel and residence pickup
Most of our packages include pickup and drop-off. The driver contacts you with a pickup window, usually in the afternoon for an evening safari. Wait in the lobby or at the entrance with a charged phone.
Meeting-point option
The shared safari uses a set meeting point. It keeps the price low and works well if you are staying nearby or have your own transport.
How long is the drive?
Allow roughly 45 minutes to an hour to reach the dunes from central Abu Dhabi, depending on traffic and the desert area used. Our guide to how long a desert safari takes gives the whole timeline.
Tips for a smooth pickup
- Share your exact hotel name, room or villa details and a contactable phone number.
- Be ready 10 minutes before the window starts.
- Tell us about your hotel area early, especially for outer districts, islands and private villas.
Not in the city centre? Send us your location and we will confirm what is possible.
Pickup areas and special locations
Central hotels and residential towers are the simplest pickups. Remote villas, islands, gated communities and resorts with restricted gate access need a little more coordination, such as a gate pass name or a nearby landmark. Share these details early and your driver will not circle the compound looking for you.
What the driver will do
You will receive a message or call with the driver’s name and vehicle. Meet at the lobby or entrance, confirm your booking name and travel together to the desert. Other guests may be collected on the way, which is part of the shared experience.
If your plans change
If you move hotels, change dates or have extra guests, tell us as soon as you can. We will update the pickup so you are not left waiting. This is one reason we ask for a working phone number during booking.
Returning to your hotel
Drop-off follows the same route in reverse. Allow time for the other guests to be dropped off as well, and avoid scheduling anything important straight after your safari. See our full timeline and the packages to confirm what applies to your choice.
