Rise before dawn for a gentle hot air balloon flight over Dubai’s red dunes, followed by a falconry breakfast and certificate of flight. This early-morning aerial experience pairs cultural insight with expansive desert views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You lift gently from a narrow patch of dune as the desert exhales dawn: burners puncture the chill, the balloon takes shape, and the red sand below begins to glow. At 4,000 feet the city skyline recedes and the dunes become ridges of light and shadow, while a trained falcon awaits on the ground to be part of a traditional falconry demonstration after landing.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours (including transfers and briefing)
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; able to stand and climb into a basket and walk on sand.
Wildlife
History
Falconry and camel husbandry are long-standing practices in the UAE, historically essential for hunting and transport across the peninsula’s shifting sands.
Conservation
Many operators coordinate with local conservation rules to avoid disturbing protected species and minimize vehicle impact on dune habitats; stay on designated tracks during transfers.
Reserve your spot on the Deluxe Hot Air Balloon Experience with Falconry Breakfast today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early and expect pre-dawn pickup
Operators pick up guests from Dubai hotels 1.5–2 hours before sunrise—confirm your pickup time and be ready for a 4x4 transfer to the launch site.
Dress in layers and closed shoes
Desert mornings are cool; wear a warm layer that can be removed as the sun rises and sturdy, closed footwear for sandy terrain.
Secure your camera and use a strap
The basket offers excellent photo opportunities but can sway; use a strap and avoid loose items that could fall into the dunes.
Be aware of weight and safety checks
Operators perform weight distribution checks and safety briefings—declare accurate weights and follow crew instructions for boarding and landing.
Layered jacket
Provides warmth during pre-dawn transfer and early flight when temperatures are coolest.
winter
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Keeps sand out and gives traction during launch and landing on uneven dunes.
Camera with wrist/neck strap
Captures wide desert and sunrise scenes while staying secured to you in a moving basket.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Protects against intense low-angle sun during and after the flight when the desert brightens quickly.
summer