dubai-desert-hot-air-balloon-and-burj-khalifa-2-day-tour
Combine a dawn hot-air balloon flight over Dubai’s dunes with a sunset visit to Burj Khalifa. This two-day tour pairs quiet desert air and falconry with 360° city views and a rooftop meal.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book sunrise slots early
Dawn is prime for ballooning—reserve early-season windows and confirm hotel pickup the night before.
Wind and weather can cancel flights
Operators cancel for unsafe wind or ATC restrictions; have a flexible schedule and expect rescheduling.
Protect gear from sand
Use a zippered camera bag and lens cloth—fine sand can damage optics and electronics.
Bring water and light layers
Desert mornings are cool but warm quickly; carry water and a breathable outer layer for early starts.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Al Qudra Lakes for quiet birdwatching after the desert visit
- •Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood for a contrast to modern Dubai and museums about Emirati life
Wildlife
- •falcon (displayed during desert program)
- •Arabian oryx (possible in conservation areas)
Conservation Note
Stick with licensed operators to reduce disturbance to protected desert habitats; avoid driving on dunes and pack out all waste.
Dubai’s rapid expansion since the 1960s transformed a trading port and oasis into a global city; Burj Khalifa opened in 2010 as the world’s tallest built structure.
What to Bring
Sun hat and sunglassesEssential
Shields you from strong sun during transfers and at observation decks.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Stable footwear helps when boarding the balloon and walking on uneven desert sand.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is important after early-morning exertion and in Dubai’s dry climate.
Camera with extra batteries
Captures the balloon’s aerial views and the Burj Khalifa panorama; batteries drain faster in cold desert mornings.
Common Questions
How long is the balloon flight?
Flights run approximately 40–70 minutes depending on weather and air traffic control permission; exact duration is decided on launch day.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes—operators report wheelchair-accessible transportation and many sites, but check specific pickup and assistance needs when booking.
What happens if the balloon is canceled?
Operators typically reschedule to another available day or offer a full refund if rescheduling isn’t possible; cancellations are usually due to unsafe winds or ATC restrictions.
Do I need a passport or ID?
Yes—carry valid ID or passport for hotel pickup and for entry to Burj Khalifa; international travelers should have passport details ready at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; light walking and short standing periods required for embarkation and observation decks.
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