Everything You Need to Know Before a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai

One morning, the sun rose, and the silky light fell over dunes varied in number, and they went on forever. If you have such a daydream in the back of your head, then a ride on a hot air balloon Dubai is perfect for your bucket list. It is not simply a scenic view to fill one’s camera but a truly relaxing experience. This experience should be considered one of the top things to do in Dubai. 

Having assisted over 10,000 Indian travellers in curating their Dubai itineraries, our team at Pickyourtrail has personally reviewed and bundled the top hot air balloon experiences in Dubai for our honeymoon and adventure packages. Here’s everything you need to know before taking to the skies.

What is a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai Like?

The very thought of gliding gently through the Arabian Desert under the serene dawn, while faint outlines of camels and oryx glide faintly across the yellow sands, paints the picture for the mind. A hot balloon ride in Dubai is hardly a tourist attraction; it is more of a serene and panoramic sightseeing venture immersed in other facets of natural beauty in the UAE. Most of the flights begin before the sun rises, so one gets to see the first rays of sunshine kissing the horizon.

Usually, the Dubai balloon ride itself lasts between 45 minutes and an hour, weather permitting, and wraps up with a gourmet dessert breakfast. Some packages even include:

• A gourmet breakfast in the desert
• Vintage Land Rover pickups from your hotel
• Live falconry shows
• Optional camel rides after landing

You can explore more about booking this experience at Balloon Adventures Dubai, as it is one of the best operators with top safety standards, experienced pilots, and luxury service. 

Hot Air Balloon Dubai Cost — What’s the Price Tag?

Now, let’s set things straight: this is a premium event with prices to match. Usually, the hot air balloon Dubai cost lies between AED 900 and AED 1,400 per person (approximately ₹20,000–₹30,000). Seasonal variations, type of package, and extra services, such as transfers, private baskets, or gourmet dining, may affect the price list.

Pro Tip: Book this as part of your Dubai tour package on Pickyourtrail to enjoy better pricing and avoid last-minute surcharges. 

When’s the Best Time to Fly?

The ballooning season in Dubai is ideal between September and May, when morning weather in the Emirates is pleasant and sunny, with that delightful coolness in the desert atmosphere. Summer is quite hot and uncomfortable for flying, and rides in a hot air balloon in Dubai should be avoided in these months. 

Weather Note: Flights may be cancelled due to strong winds or poor visibility. All reputed operators offer free rescheduling or refunds in such cases.

What to Wear and Carry 

One should dress comfortably. Mornings may be and often are chilly, especially out in the desert, so a light jacket or hoodie would be a suitable layer to wear. Wear flat shoes that can be closed. Bring your sunglasses to bag some memories during golden hour! Make sure to take your phone or camera for capturing memories, but fasten it tightly to your wrist or neck strap while you are floating hundreds of feet in the air.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Balloon Tour Dubai

• Book early – Hot air balloon Dubai opportunities are a hot commodity, and the slots disappear more quickly during peak tourist season. Booking early will ensure that you do not miss out.
• Be on time – Most tours take off well before sunrise. The operators do have strict timings so that they may catch the best morning light.
• Charge your devices – Should you wish to capture more storage and battery for those dreamy sunrise snaps from your hot air balloon Dubai adventures.
• Ask about cancellations – Weather delays quite commonly occur, so do check the cancellation and rescheduling policy well ahead of time with your hot air balloon Dubai provider.

What Can You Expect During a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai?

Once inside the basket and lifted to the skies, glide viewfully across majestic dunes with 45-60 minutes worth of smooth time. Desert fauna, mountains afar, and even another couple of balloons lifting with you may be the sights you witness in a real postcard moment. The hot air balloon Dubai view is calm, surreal, and amazingly picturesque.

After landing, most packages offer:

• A hearty gourmet breakfast
• Camel rides or falcon shows
• A return trip in a vintage desert vehicle

Conversely, expect a dash of serenity, a big punch of wonder, and a splash of luxury-special moments that will make everything about your Dubai trip feel worth it in an instant.

Why Choose a Hot Air Balloon Dubai Experience?

A hot air balloon Dubai ride is one serenity-filled escape worthy of being included in a cinematic montage of the hustle and bustle of the city. With the rate at which  Dubai tourism is boosting, Dubai has managed to include some of the adventure activities one can ask for. There’s something romantic, something thrilling, and much Instagram-worthy about it. Be it with someone you love, with family, or even alone, that memory will forever be etched onto your heart.

If there’s anything that should maybe top your list of things to do in your Dubai honeymoon package, this sky-high adventure is surely a worthy crown. Up, up, and away!

Checkout: Dubai Visa

FAQ About Hot Air Balloon Rides in Dubai

1. Is the balloon ride safe?
Yes, all reputable operators are licensed by the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority and follow strict safety protocols.

2. How early should I book?
At least 2–3 weeks in advance during peak travel season (Oct–Mar).

3. Is it suitable for kids or seniors?
Children above 5 are usually allowed. Seniors with mobility issues should consult the operator before booking.

4. What’s the cost of this experience?
Expect to pay between AED 900 and AED 1,400 per person (approx. ₹20,000–₹30,000)