Leaving the bustle of Sharjah behind, we travel eastward, the towering skyscrapers shrinking in the rearview mirror. The landscape transforms into a vast expanse of ochre dunes, punctuated by the occasional scraggly shrub.  The air hangs heavy with quiet anticipation as we approach the village, its silhouette rising on the horizon like a mirage.

The village itself is surprisingly small, consisting of two rows of houses flanking a lone, weathered mosque.  The first impression is one of melancholy.  Doors hang open, revealing empty rooms stripped bare. Peeling paint reveals remnants of vibrant colors that once graced the walls, a testament to the former life that pulsed within these structures.  Some houses display a surprising touch of individuality – a faded floral wallpaper, or a geometric mosaic tile pattern. These remnants speak of lives interrupted, dreams left unfulfilled.

Local legend has it that the village was abandoned due to supernatural forces. Whispers of djinns, malevolent spirits said to haunt the desert, are a common explanation.  Another theory points to the harsh realities of desert life. The scorching heat, sandstorms, and lack of basic amenities like running water and electricity might have proven too much for the residents, especially those accustomed to a nomadic lifestyle.

Historical records offer a more grounded explanation. Built-in the 1970s as part of a government initiative to provide permanent housing for Bedouin tribes, the village was initially home to the Al Ketbi tribe. However, the transition from a nomadic existence to a settled life proved challenging.  The long commute to find work and the isolation of the desert location might have contributed to the exodus that began in the 1980s and continued into the 1990s.

Despite the desolation, the village holds a strange allure.  It’s a photographer’s paradise, with each weathered wall, crumbling doorway, and windblown window frame offering a unique composition.  The silence is broken only by the rustle of the wind and the crunch of our footsteps on the sand. It’s a place that invites introspection, prompting us to ponder the impermanence of human endeavors and the power of nature to reclaim its dominion.

Our exploration isn’t just about the abandoned structures.  A short walk away lies the ruins of a falaj, a traditional underground irrigation system.  These channels, once used to bring life to the desert, now stand silent, a reminder of the ingenuity of past generations.

As the afternoon sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the dunes, it’s time to depart.  We leave the Al Madam Abandoned Village with a sense of wonder and a tinge of sadness.  It’s a place that carries the weight of history, a reminder of a time and a way of life that has vanished. Yet, amidst the decay, there’s a strange beauty, a resilience in the very stones that stand defiant against the harsh desert environment.  The Al Madam Abandoned Village is a stark reminder of the transience of human existence, but also a testament to the enduring power of memory.

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• Desert Delights: A Range of Sharjah Desert Safaris

Tour operators offer a spectrum of packages catering to different preferences and budgets. Here’s a glimpse into the most popular options:

The Classic Evening Safari: This is the quintessential desert adventure, perfect for first-timers. Buckle up for a thrilling dune bashing session, experience a traditional camel ride, and savor a delectable BBQ dinner under the starlit sky. Prices typically start around AED 40 (US$11) and can go up to AED 150 (US$41) depending on inclusions like entertainment shows and refreshments.

The Exclusive Soiree:  These often include private 4WD vehicles, gourmet meals, unique activities like henna painting or falconry shows, and VIP treatment at the desert camp.  These can range from AED 200 (US$54) to AED 500 (US$136) or more.

The Adventurer’s Call:  If you crave an adrenaline rush, consider incorporating add-ons like quad biking or dune buggy rides.  Prepare to pay AED 300 (US$82) or more for these experiences on top of the base safari price.

The Alluring Overnight Escape:  For a truly immersive experience, choose an overnight desert safari. Imagine sleeping under a canopy of stars, enjoying traditional entertainment around a bonfire, and waking up to a breathtaking desert sunrise.  Overnight packages typically start from AED 350 (US$95) and can go up to AED 1000 (US$272) or more depending on the level of comfort and activities offered.

• Beyond the Basics: Unveiling the Price Variations

While the categories above provide a general framework, several factors influence the final price of your Sharjah desert safari:

Seasonality:  Desert safaris are naturally more popular during cooler months (October to April). Expect a slight price increase during this peak season.

Group Size:  Sharing a 4WD vehicle with a larger group brings the cost down compared to a private tour.

Inclusions:  The more activities and amenities included in the package (meals, entertainment, etc.), the higher the price.

Tour Operator Reputation:  Reputable tour operators with experienced guides and well-maintained vehicles might command a premium.

Pro Tip: Bargaining is an art form in the UAE. While unlikely with established tour operators, you might find some flexibility on price, especially during the off-season, if you book directly with smaller companies.

• Beyond the Price Tag: An Invaluable Experience

Remember, the cost of a desert safari goes beyond just the monetary value. It’s an investment in memories.  You’ll experience the thrill of dune bashing, the serenity of the desert landscape, and the warmth of Emirati hospitality, and create stories that will last a lifetime.

• Crafting Your Dream Desert Safari in Sharjah

Now that you’re armed with this pricing guide, you can search for the perfect Sharjah desert safari. Here are some tips:

Read online reviews:  Get a sense of different tour operators and their offerings through customer reviews.

Compare prices:  Don’t hesitate to get quotes from several companies before deciding.

Consider your preferences: Consider the activities you’d like to experience, the level of comfort you desire, and your budget.

Book in advance, especially during peak season.

With careful planning and this guide in hand, you can embark on an unforgettable Sharjah desert safari adventure that perfectly fits your budget and leaves you with a treasure trove of memories.

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* Types of Desert Safari Packages

Morning Desert Safari:

Overview: This package is perfect for those who prefer to experience the desert in the cooler morning hours. It usually includes dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding.

Cost: Prices generally range from AED 150 to AED 300 per person.

Evening Desert Safari:

Overview: The most popular option, the evening safari, offers a full range of activities such as dune bashing, camel rides, quad biking, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner. Cultural experiences like henna painting, shisha smoking, and traditional dance performances (like Tanoura and belly dance) are also included.

Cost: This package typically costs between AED 200 and AED 400 per person.

Overnight Desert Safari:

Overview: This package extends the evening safari experience into the night. Guests can sleep under the stars in traditional Bedouin-style tents and enjoy breakfast the next morning.

Cost: Prices range from AED 350 to AED 600 per person.

Private Desert Safari:

Overview: Ideal for those seeking a more personalized experience, private safaris offer exclusive vehicles and customized itineraries. This option can include all the activities of a standard safari but with added privacy and flexibility.

Cost: Private safaris can cost between AED 800 to AED 1500 per vehicle, accommodating up to six people.

* Factors Affecting the Cost

Inclusions and Activities:

Packages that include additional activities such as quad biking, dune buggies, or falconry shows will generally be more expensive.

Transportation:

Some tours include pickup and drop-off services from your location, which can influence the overall price.

Season and Demand:

During Eid holidays, the prices may surge due to increased demand.

Group Discounts:

Larger groups might receive discounts, making it a more economical option for families or groups of friends.

* What to Expect on a Desert Safari

Quad Biking and Dune Buggies:

For those seeking more adventure, riding a quad bike or dune buggy provides an exhilarating way to explore the desert.

Cultural Experiences:

Henna painting, shisha smoking, and watching traditional performances like Tanoura and belly dancing are often included in evening and overnight safaris.

BBQ Dinner:

A sumptuous buffet featuring a variety of Arabian and international dishes, typically included in the evening and overnight packages.

Stargazing:

For overnight safaris, the clear desert skies offer a perfect opportunity for stargazing.

* Booking Tips

Research and Compare:

Look up different tour operators and compare their packages, inclusions, and reviews.

Advance Booking:

During peak seasons such as Eid, it’s advisable to book in advance to secure your spot and potentially get better rates.

Check Inclusions:

Ensure you understand what is included in the package to avoid any surprises. Some activities may incur additional costs.

Special Requests:

If you have specific dietary requirements or prefer a less intense dune bashing experience, communicate these to the tour operator beforehand.

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