Every year around late November, the same question starts doing the rounds in family group chats: what are we doing for National Day? Here’s our vote. Book a Sharjah desert safari for UAE National Day 2026. Swap the crowded malls for wide, quiet dunes, sip some gahwa with a couple of dates, and watch the sky turn orange over the sand. Whether you live here or you’re just visiting, Eid Al Etihad is a lovely time to see the desert properly
Some quick background, in case you’re new to the UAE. National Day is on 2 December, the anniversary of the emirates coming together as one country in 1971. Flags go up on balconies, cars get wrapped in the national colours, and the whole country is in a good mood. Getting out into the desert for part of it makes a nice change from the city buzz, and honestly, it’s where you’ll feel closest to the old way of life here.
Why Choose a Sharjah Desert Safari for UAE National Day?
Malls, fireworks, family lunches. They’re all part of National Day, and we’re not knocking any of them. But if you’d like the holiday to feel a bit different this year, the desert is where we’d point you.
Sharjah has a reputation as the UAE’s culture capital, and it shows. A short drive out of town and the buildings give way to open sand and real silence. It’s a great spot for a bit of adventure, some photos, or just a slow afternoon outdoors.
Making a longer trip of the holidays? Our other guide, UAE National Holiday & Special Desert Safari Packages, has more ideas for planning desert days around the UAE’s national holidays.
Top Activities to Enjoy During a National Day Desert Safari
1. Experience an Exciting Dune Bashing Adventure
Ask anyone what they remember from their first safari and it’s usually this. You’re strapped into a 4×4, the driver lines up a huge dune, and over you go. Then down. Then up again. The drivers know these dunes well, so you can scream all you like and still be in safe hands.
It’s a fun way to start the celebrations, especially with a group of friends. A word of caution, though. Stick with a licensed operator, pay attention to the safety briefing, and check that nobody in your group has motion sickness or back trouble before you set off.
2. Enjoy Beautiful Desert Sunset Views
When the sun starts going down, the whole place changes. The sand goes from gold to deep orange, the shadows get long and stretchy, and for a few minutes nobody’s really talking. It’s that kind of view.
It’s a winner with couples and families, and if you’ve packed a proper camera, this is when you’ll use it. Not a big fan of the rough stuff? A sunset safari still gives you some adventure, just with more time for the scenery.
3. Discover Traditional Emirati Hospitality
A lot of people don’t expect this part. Emirati hospitality is famously generous, and the desert camp is where you’ll see it. Depending on what you’ve booked, there could be Arabic coffee and dates when you arrive, then traditional snacks and a bit of cultural entertainment later on.
It’s simple stuff, but it makes the trip feel connected to what National Day is really about. Operators and packages all do things a little differently, so make sure you know what’s included before you hand over any money.
4. Enjoy a Camel Ride and Desert Photography
Honestly, a desert trip without a camel feels incomplete. People relied on them to cross this land for hundreds of years, and climbing onto one (the moment it stands up is the funniest part) gives you a little glimpse of that life. You’ll want photos too. Trust us.
Kids tend to love it, which makes it an easy pick for families. If you’re curious about the history, your guide can probably tell you how important camels were to life out here. Before booking, ask how long the ride lasts and whether there are age or safety limits.
Choose the Right National Day Desert Safari Package
There’s no right answer here. It comes down to how much time you’ve got, what you want to spend, and what kind of day you have in mind. Some people are happy with a couple of hours of fun. Others want to stay for dinner and make a whole evening of it.
Here’s how the main options compare:
● Morning desert safari: Early start, cooler air, and you’re back with most of the day still ahead of you.
● Evening desert safari: Best for sunset views and time at the camp. Probably the most popular choice.
● Private desert safari: Just your group in the car, at your own pace. Great for families, if there’s space available.
● Family desert safari: Look for kid-friendly activities, easy pickup, and safety rules that are explained clearly.
Still not sure? Our guide to UAE National Holiday & Special Desert Safari Packages can help you compare seasonal options. Either way, check the price, availability, pickup and inclusions with the operator before you confirm.
Tips for Planning Your UAE National Day Safari
Nothing complicated. Just a few things worth sorting out before the day.
Book early: National Day is one of the busiest times of the year. Private cars and family packages are usually the first to go, so don’t wait too long.
Confirm the itinerary: Find out exactly what you’re paying for. Is transport included? Dune bashing? Camel rides? Dinner? Shows? Every package is a bit different.
Dress comfortably: Go for loose, comfortable clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting sandy. If you’re staying after dark, take a light jacket. Desert evenings in December cool down more than people expect.
Prioritise safety: Follow what the operator says, and tell them upfront about any health or mobility issues before the adventure activities. Children should wear proper safety gear and stay within the age limits.
Plan your journey: Know your pickup point, departure time, how long the whole thing takes, and how you’re getting back. Five minutes of checking saves a lot of hassle.
Check festive arrangements: Not every operator runs special National Day offers or themed activities. If you spot a deal, double-check it’s really part of your booking.
Make Your National Day Holiday Memorable in Sharjah
National Day is a celebration of unity, culture, and just how far this country has come in a few decades. Spending part of it in the Sharjah desert, with open space and proper old-school hospitality, feels like a fitting way to mark it.
Morning trip, evening safari, or a private outing with family? Pick whichever suits you. Just don’t leave the booking till the last minute.
Head over to Desert Safari Sharjah to see what’s available and start planning. And for more holiday ideas, take a look at our related guide, UAE National Holiday & Special Desert Safari Packages.
Wishing you a very happy Eid Al Etihad. See you out in the dunes!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is UAE National Day in 2026?
It’s on Wednesday, 2 December 2027, and it’s also called Eid Al Etihad. The government usually confirms the official holiday dates closer to the time, so check before you finalise anything.
Is a desert safari suitable for families?
Yes, absolutely. Lots of operators have family packages. Just check the age limits, what’s included, how transport works and what safety measures are in place.
What activities are available on a Sharjah desert safari?
That depends on what you book, but the usual line-up is dune bashing, camel rides, sunset photos, refreshments and some cultural entertainment.
Should I book a National Day desert safari in advance?
Yes, we’d book early. Holidays get busy fast. Confirm availability, prices and what’s included with your operator before you lock it in.