About this tour
When Sarah from our team did this falconry safari, we headed into the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve by 4x4 to learn the fundamentals of flying a trained falcon. It's a 5-hour small-group experience capped at 12 people, which keeps things intimate rather than theme-park-like. You'll ride out to a hunting camp, handle a bird on your glove, and watch the handlers put the falcons through their paces. The reserve itself is a genuine wildlife pocket in the dunes—not a theme park—and the activity taps into something that's woven into Emirati culture. If you upgrade, breakfast at Al Maha rounds it out nicely.
Highlights
- Hands-on falcon flying from your glove, not just watching
- Small-group cap of 12 keeps the experience genuine and unhurried
- Wildlife drive through the reserve spotting natural desert inhabitants
- Professional guides explain the history and technique of Emirati falconry
- Early-morning timing catches the desert at its best light
- Falcon displays show what these birds actually do in training
- Al Maha breakfast option is worth the upgrade if you're hungry
What to expect
You'll be picked up from your hotel while it's still cool, then driven into the reserve in an air-conditioned 4x4. The first part is a wildlife drive to the hunting camp—expect to spot Arabian oryx, gazelle, and other desert fauna if you're lucky, though sightings aren't guaranteed. Once at camp, the guide walks you through falcon handling basics: grip, stance, how to read the bird's body language. Then you take turns flying from your glove while others watch. The birds are trained and accustomed to the routine, but there's genuine skill involved—it's not pretend. Between flights, the handlers run displays showing speed and precision. The whole interactive session runs 1.5 to 2 hours. If you've booked breakfast, you'll head to Al Maha Resort afterward for a proper feed before heading back to town.
Good to know
This is genuinely hands-on, not a passive spectator sport. The reserve itself is a real conservation area, so you're supporting something worthwhile. The group size is small enough that everyone gets meaningful time with a falcon. It's suited to most fitness levels, though cardiovascular issues are a consideration given the heat and activity. Kids work if they're old enough to follow instructions and handle the weight of a bird on their arm.
Early starts are non-negotiable—timing shifts with the seasons and weather, so confirm your exact pickup time when you book. Walking to and from the 4x4 in the dunes can be uneven underfoot. The glove and equipment are provided, but your clothes will cop desert dust and potentially bird residue. If you're hoping to photograph the experience, bring a good camera—phone shots in bright sunlight can be tricky. Breakfast is not included unless you pay extra. Gratuities are your call. Minimum group size is 2 people. Not ideal if you have very young children or mobility concerns.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original Global Hobo summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.