Float above ochre dunes at sunrise, watch a falcon ride the thermals, and meet camels on a morning that blends living tradition with aerial calm. Practical tips on timing, dress, and photography inside.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Before the sun clears the horizon, the desert breathes a cool, ochre hush. A basket lifts from a flat launch plain and the world drops away: dunes become ridged waves, a lone acacia shrinks, and the sky takes on a hard, brilliant blue. You float, not run, over a landscape shaped by wind and time, the balloon a quiet ship and the sand below a patient passenger.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours (includes transfers and pre/post activities)
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; participants should be able to stand and step in/out of a basket
Wildlife
History
Falconry is a storied Emirati tradition tied to Bedouin survival; the desert route networks once connected trade camps and grazing grounds.
Conservation
Operators frequently coordinate with local reserves to minimize disturbance; stick to marked meeting areas and support licensed providers to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Dubai Desert By Hot Air Balloon & Falcon Show and Camel today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for Dawn-to-Daylight Shifts
Temperatures change quickly—bring a warm layer for lift-off and a light shirt for when the sun rises; mornings can be chilly before sunrise.
Protect Against Sun and Sand
Apply high-SPF sunscreen and bring polarized sunglasses to cut glare; a light buff protects your face from windblown sand.
Sturdy, Closed-Toe Shoes
Wear shoes you don’t mind getting sandy—flat soles and closed toes are safest for boarding and uneven launch areas.
Bring Extra Power for Cameras
Cold at altitude and long shooting sessions drain batteries—carry a spare and an insulated pocket or warm pack.
Layered Jacket
Holds warmth during cool pre-dawn and can be shed as the sun warms the desert.
spring
Closed-Toe Shoes
Protect feet from sand and provide stability when boarding the balloon basket.
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare and improves visibility during bright sunrise conditions.
summer
Extra Camera Battery/Power Bank
Ensures you don’t miss horizon shots—cold and multiple quick photos drain batteries fast.