Rise with the sun over the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve on a 40–70 minute hot air balloon flight. See Arabian oryx, gazelles and sweeping dunes from 4,000 ft, then return to a desert breakfast and cultural encounters.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Before dawn the desert holds its breath. You board a van in Dubai at 04:30 and drive out through black asphalt into widening plains; by the time you step onto the sand the crew is inflating a vast, color-bright envelope that will lift you over a world shaped by wind.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours (including transfer and post-flight activities)
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required — participants should be able to step into a balloon basket and stand for the flight.
Wildlife
History
The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve was established to protect the unique desert ecosystem and native species while allowing controlled eco-tourism.
Conservation
Operators work within the reserve’s guidelines to minimize disturbance; stick to marked access points and avoid feeding wildlife to support conservation efforts.
Reserve your spot on the Tour of Dubai Hot Air Balloon today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Pre-dawn temperatures are cool; mornings warm quickly after landing—bring a light jacket you can remove.
Bring sun protection
High desert sun follows the flight—wide-brim hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are useful after touchdown.
Secure gear
Use a neck strap or wrist leash for cameras and phones—the basket moves during ascent and landing.
Hydrate before departure
Early starts and desert air dehydrate; drink water before pickup and carry a small bottle for after the flight.
Layered jacket
Warm for dawn and easily removed as the morning heats up.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Protect feet from loose sand during boarding and after landing.
Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat)
Desert sun is intense after sunrise—protect exposed skin and eyes.
summer
Camera with extra batteries or phone strap
Battery life and a secure strap ensure you capture the shifting light from the basket.