Top 10 Hot Air Balloon Services in Dubai (2025 Guide)
Looking to float above Dubai’s golden dunes or take in skyline views from the clouds? We’ve handpicked the top 10 hot air balloon services based on what matters most to you: safety, scenic views, pickup convenience, and real reviews. Here’s your go-to guide for booking an experience that soars.
TL;DR – Best Hot Air Balloon Rides in Dubai
- Top-rated: Hot Air Balloon UAE and Hot Air Balloon Dubai (4.9 stars on TripAdvisor).
- Best for luxury: Hero Balloon Flights – includes Michelin breakfast & falcon show.
- Most scenic: MAHA and Sindbad Gulf Balloons – wildlife & high-altitude views.
- Skyline view: The Dubai Balloon (short 10-min ride at Atlantis).
- Pickup included: Hot Air Balloon Dubai and Shepherd Balloon Dubai.
1. Hot Air Balloon UAE
Hot Air Balloon UAE holds an impressive 4.9 rating on TripAdvisor with over 1,000 glowing reviews. Their pilots are certified by the GCAA and follow strict aviation standards, offering extra assurance to first-time flyers.
The ride includes a sunrise journey over the desert and features an exclusive in-flight falcon show for a touch of local tradition. While flight duration is around one hour, pick-up and drop-off services aren’t clearly listed on their website.
2. Hero Balloon Flights Dubai
Hero Balloon Flights boasts a 4.8 rating on TripAdvisor from over 1,000 reviews, praised for its luxurious and scenic tours. While safety certifications aren’t publicly detailed, they market their pilots as highly trained professionals.
Their sunrise flights glide over golden dunes and include a Michelin-starred breakfast and live falconry demonstration. The half-day adventure doesn’t confirm transfer services, so check when booking.
3. The Dubai Balloon
With a 4.3 TripAdvisor rating, The Dubai Balloon offers a unique tethered ride near Atlantis, The Palm. Unlike traditional desert rides, this 10-minute flight climbs 225 meters to reveal stunning views of the Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, and skyline.
Safety credentials aren’t detailed, and guests must arrange their own transport. Add-ons include professional photography, but no breakfast or extras are listed.
4. Shepherd Balloon Dubai
Rated 4.8 on TripAdvisor, Shepherd Balloon Dubai offers peaceful sunrise rides over Dubai’s desert, where passengers often spot wildlife. They don’t list certifications, but reviews highlight smooth flights and helpful crew.
Each flight lasts around one hour and includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or residence. While no add-on experiences are promoted, the natural scenery is a highlight itself.
5. Sindbad Gulf Balloons
Sindbad Gulf Balloons holds a 4.4 TripAdvisor rating and positions itself as one of the safest, though no official certifications are listed. Their flights soar between 2,000 and 4,000 feet, offering stunning views of the dunes.
Flight time is approximately an hour and includes luxury car transfers from your hotel. Guests can opt for extras like breakfast or a camel ride after landing.
6. MAHA Balloon Adventures
MAHA Balloon Adventures earns a solid 4.7 rating on TripAdvisor and follows GCAA safety standards with licensed pilots. Their early-morning flights glide above desert sands with chances to see Arabian gazelles and oryx.
Flights typically last one hour, but pickup and drop-off details are not specified on the site. While no add-ons are confirmed, the serene natural scenery is a reward on its own.
7. Balloon Ride Dubai
This operator has a strong 4.8 TripAdvisor score with praise for its experienced, certified pilots. Riders float up to 4,000 feet above the Hajar mountains and desert, often catching breathtaking sunrise views.
Flight time ranges from 40 to 70 minutes, and hotel pickup is available at an added cost. Add-ons include gourmet breakfasts and in-flight falcon shows for a premium touch.
8. Hot Air Balloon Dubai
Holding a 4.9 TripAdvisor rating, this service is GCAA licensed and praised for its all-inclusive packages. Flights rise above Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, with views of the skyline and Arabian Gulf.
Flight time runs 45 to 60 minutes, with pickup and drop-off included in all packages. Extras include camel rides, falcon shows, and gourmet breakfasts, making it ideal for special occasions.
9. BALLOON FLIGHTS (Hero alias)
This balloon company, believed to be linked to Hero Balloon Flights, holds a 4.6 rating on TripAdvisor. Safety certifications are not published, so customers should inquire directly before booking.
Flights last around one hour and provide scenic desert views, but pickup details and add-ons aren’t confirmed online. It’s a basic option best suited for budget-minded travelers.
10. Royal Falcon Balloons
Royal Falcon Balloons has a perfect 5.0 rating on TripAdvisor, though only from a handful of reviews. There is no public information available on safety certifications or pilot training.
Flight time and altitude are not disclosed, and there’s no mention of pickup service. Due to the limited details, consider verifying all features before booking.
Comparison Table: Top Balloon Rides in Dubai
| Service Name | Rating (TripAdvisor) | Safety & Certification | Views & Altitude | Flight Time | Pickup & Drop-off | Add-on Experiences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hot Air Balloon UAE | 4.9 (1016 reviews) | GCAA Certified, Licensed Pilots | Desert sunrise, in-flight falcon show | ~1 hr | Not specified | Falcon show |
| Hero Balloon Flights Dubai | 4.8 (1156 reviews) | No public certs listed | Desert & dunes | ~1 hr (half-day tour) | Not listed | Michelin-starred breakfast, falcon show |
| The Dubai Balloon | 4.3 (213 reviews) | Not listed | Palm Jumeirah skyline (225m high) | 10 mins | No transfers | Professional photos only |
| Shepherd Balloon Dubai | 4.8 (136 reviews) | No certs listed | Sunrise desert with wildlife | ~1 hr | Hotel/residence transfer | Not listed |
| Sindbad Gulf Balloons | 4.4 (157 reviews) | Claims “safest” but no certs | 2,000–4,000 ft desert views | ~1 hr | Luxury car pickup | Optional camel ride, breakfast |
| MAHA Balloon Adventures | 4.7 (75 reviews) | GCAA compliance, licensed pilots | Desert sunrise, wildlife | ~1 hr | Not listed | Not listed |
| Balloon Ride Dubai | 4.8 (69 reviews) | Certified pilots | Up to 4,000 ft, desert, Hajar mountains | 40–70 mins | Hotel pickup (extra) | Falcon show, breakfast |
| Hot Air Balloon Dubai | 4.9 (69 reviews) | GCAA Licensed | Sunrise, Dubai Desert Reserve, skyline | 45–60 mins | All packages include pickup | Falcon show, gourmet breakfast, camel ride |
| BALLOON FLIGHTS (Hero alias) | 4.6 (85 reviews) | No certs listed | Desert | ~1 hr | Not specified | Not specified |
| Royal Falcon Balloons | 5.0 (7 reviews) | Unknown | Not verified | Not verified | Not verified | Not verified |
Best Picks Based on Your Needs
- For Premium Add-ons: Hero Balloon Flights Dubai (Michelin breakfast + falcon show)
- For Wildlife Views: MAHA Balloon Adventures and Shepherd Balloon Dubai
- For Skyline Lovers: The Dubai Balloon (Palm Jumeirah, Ain Dubai)
- For Luxury Transfers: Sindbad Gulf Balloons (car pickup), Hot Air Balloon Dubai (all-included packages)
- For Safety-Conscious Flyers: Hot Air Balloon Dubai and Hot Air Balloon UAE (GCAA licensed)
Tips Before You Book
- Flights usually depart before sunrise (pickups as early as 4:30 AM)
- Most rides operate Sept–May due to weather
- Always confirm cancellation policies and insurance coverage
- If you’re celebrating a special occasion, ask about custom banners or private baskets
Ready to take flight? Choose the company that fits your vibe, budget, and bucket list, and prepare to see Dubai like never before.
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