Dubai is a desert oasis filled with tranquillity, wildlife, and the culture of the bedouins. But you have to escape the city to see what life was like prior to the modern-day Dubai we know today. As many of you know, I’m a sucker for history. I love understanding cultures on a deeper level and as soon as you scratch the surface, you can do just that in Dubai. So I set off for a cultural tour with Platinum Heritage Safaris in Dubai to find peace in the desert.
Buckle Up in a 1948 Land Rover
This tour company is one of a kind and offers a really unique way to see the desert. To start the adventure, we set off in a 1948 restored Land Rover. As soon as you set off in your vehicle and start bouncing through the dunes, the adventure begins. I was incredibly fortunate to have my little brother along for the ride.
The desert safari starts in the Land Rover as you make your way around the dunes. You will also discover wildlife along the way. You will see Oryx and Gazelle as you make your way around Al Maha, a private desert reserve owned by the royal family of Dubai.
The Bedouin Experience
After the dune bashing experience, we made our way to the Platinum Heritage desert camp. Upon arrival, we were met with an Arabic coffee, half-filled to signify that we were welcome in the camp. This is an age old traditional Bedouin way of greeting visitors.
The sun was setting when we arrived in the early evening. This creates such a magical feel when you arrive at camp. All of a sudden you feel transferred to a former, more simple time.
From there we were shown around the camp and the different cultural stations on offer – from traditional Arabic bread making to henna tattoos, Platinum Heritage have made it possible to enjoy, experience and learn all about the local desert culture.
The Evening with Platinum Heritage Safaris
The experience lasts into the evening, with a cultural show followed by a local dinner and mingling with fellow travellers in the camp. While we chose the evening experience only, you can also stay the night at the camp (something I’d love to do next time!)
On another one of our days in Dubai we chose another Platinum Heritage tour – the early morning sunrise hot air balloon over the desert, followed by breakfast and a wildlife safari – another out of body experience that I’ll remember for years to come!
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