Scan code to download
Scan code to download
Scan code to download
A hot air balloon tour is one of the most memorable ways to experience the natural landscapes of the UAE.
Yes, it is true that the country is mostly known for its modern skylines and architectural landmarks, but what many people don't know is that its desert environment offers something entirely different from everyday city life.
A hot air balloon ride UAE gives you the chance to see the sunrise over endless dunes, observe wildlife from above, and enjoy a calm and peaceful journey where the only sound comes from the wind and the balloon burner.
This is something you won't want to miss out on if you really want to experience the UAE first-hand or relieve yourself from stress.
In recent years, more travellers and residents have shown interest in hot air balloon rides across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
While each emirate offers its own desert scenery, the experience generally includes a pre-flight briefing, pick-up from designated points, and a quiet, scenic flight over an open desert.
As an addition to the experience you will get, some tour services in the UAE also go a long way to add traditional breakfast options, falconry displays, or heritage activities, depending on the hot air balloon package Dubai chosen.
Every operator (service provider) tailors their service slightly differently, but most hot air balloon tours across the UAE share these essential elements to give you the best experience possible:
Balloon flights take place at dawn, when the winds are light and the temperature is stable. Pick-up is usually arranged between 3:30 AM and 5:00 AM, depending on the season.
Some people might have great experiences with hot air balloon rides, while others are novices.
But regardless of the experience you have, there must always be a briefing first to ensure maximum safety, which is something that cannot be downplayed.
Before takeoff, the ground crew provides safety instructions and explains how the balloon operates. This applies to both first-time passengers and regular flyers.
The flight usually lasts 45–60 minutes. During this time, you will see the landscape changing colors as the sun rises.
Many guests choose the hot air balloon experience in Dubai specifically for the sweeping views of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.
It will not really be the best experience (especially for first timers) if you just pack your bags home after a great experience like this without post activities that you can live to remember. After landing, many service providers provide:
- Light breakfast
- Souvenir certificates
- Falcon photo opportunities
- Transportation back to the city
The details depend on the exact hot air balloon adventure selected.
Here are a few emirates in UAE where you can enjoy Hot Air Balloon:
Dubai remains the most popular location for a Hot Air Balloon tour. The desert environment near Margham and Lahbab creates ideal flying conditions. You may also see wildlife such as gazelles or Arabian oryx from the air.
Abu Dhabi offers vast open deserts and slightly different terrain. The flying fields tend to be quieter, giving the entire experience a more remote and calm atmosphere.
Hot Air Balloon ride in Sharjah’s desert regions offers similar scenery, and flights are conducted in wide open areas with clear panoramic views.
Each emirate provides something unique, but the general structure of the tour remains consistent.
Safety is something that cannot be taken for granted on adventures like these, and most especially in a country like the UAE.
Licensed operators in the UAE follow strict safety protocols. Pilots are trained, certified, and experienced, and very balloon undergoes regular maintenance, and flights proceed only when the weather conditions are suitable, and if the weather doesn't permit, the tour will be cancelled and rescheduled for another day, or in some cases, your money might be refunded because safety will always trump your desire for an experience.
Some key safety points to note:
As mentioned earlier, safety will always trump your desire to have the best experience.
Some safety protocols that are required include;
- Children must meet the minimum age and height limits
- Pregnant guests cannot fly
- People with severe back or knee concerns should consult the operator
- Comfortable clothing and closed shoes are recommended
These guidelines are in place to ensure a safe and smooth journey for everyone, and not to limit your experience.
MetaHomes Life Services connects you with licensed life-service providers across the UAE.
This includes operators offering hot air balloon rides, desert experiences, city tours, and more.
To book a hot air balloon tour:
All arrangements, from scheduling to pick-up coordination, are handled by the merchant offering the experience.
Hot air balloon flights are available throughout the year, but the most comfortable period is from October to April due to cooler morning temperatures.
Flights still operate in summer; however, earlier departures are scheduled to avoid high heat. Talking from the point of experience, the best time is during winter.
Although the flight lasts around 45–60 minutes, the full experience usually spans 4–6 hours from pick-up to drop-off. (Note that this includes travel time, that is, the time of pickup from your doorstep, safety briefings, preparation, landing, and any additional activities included in the package).
Yes. Hot air ballooning is considered one of the safest forms of aviation. Pilots in the UAE undergo rigorous training, and added to that, as an additional safety measure, flights operate only when conditions are suitable.
Safety briefings are provided before takeoff, so passengers know exactly what to expect, and what to do in case there is a glitch, so that they are not caught off guard.
Most operators allow children aged 5 and above who meet a minimum height requirement.
These limits ensure the child can stand safely inside the basket and see outside without assistance, because it would not make much sense if your child cannot have the expected experience because of their inability to see the beautiful views.
It is advisable for parents to check specific rules before booking to avoid wasting money that would have yielded greater value if you booked another adventure for the child instead of a hot air balloon tour.
Comfortable clothing, such as light layers and closed shoes, is recommended. Although the desert is cooler at sunrise, it warms up quickly afterward. Hats and sunglasses can also be helpful.
If the pilot determines that the weather conditions are not safe, the flight will be postponed or rescheduled. Safety is always prioritized, and operators will offer an alternative date.
The altitude varies depending on the wind conditions. Pilots may fly low over dunes for better views and later ascend to higher levels for wider panoramas. The height is always within safe and regulated limits.
Yes, passengers are encouraged to take photos. The scenery is particularly beautiful during sunrise. Secure handling is important since loose items can fall from the basket.
See Also:
