Hot-air balloon flights over Dubai’s desert

The flight itself takes about an hour, but allow around 4-5 hours for the whole experience including transfer time. Most packages include transfers to the take-off site from the city and breakfast, with optional add-ons such as photo sessions, video of your flight and falconry also available.

There are a number of hot air balloon operators. You can book direct or through a third-party agent as part of a wider desert experience.

Take a sweater or something warm as it can feel chilly in the desert, and at high altitude in the mornings. A full safety briefing is given before take-off, and safety belts are worn for landing.

The ballooning season is generally September to May, weather permitting. Early morning fog or high winds can ground the balloons, but sometimes only lead to a delayed take-off, in which case you’ll have breakfast first and then fly.

Weekends and school holidays will be busier, so if you can avoid these times you’ll likely have more space in the basket.