Abu Dhabi Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Dune bashing & camel rides in abu dhabi’s shifting sands

You’ll ride out from Abu Dhabi into rolling dunes for dune bashing with a local guide, try sandboarding (wipeouts optional), meet camels up close, then relax at a desert camp with fresh coffee, henna art, and BBQ dinner as dusk settles over the sand. Expect laughter, new flavors, and maybe a little sand in your shoes.

What’s the experience like?

We were still brushing city dust off our shoes when the Land Cruiser rolled out of Abu Dhabi — I didn’t expect the desert to start so suddenly, but after about 45 minutes (maybe less, I lost track), the buildings just faded and it was all gold and silence. Our driver, Yasin, flicked on some Arabic pop and grinned before steering us straight into the dunes. The car pitched and slid; my stomach did a little dance I wasn’t ready for. Sand everywhere — in my shoes, between my fingers, even clinging to my lips when I laughed too hard.

We stopped at a camel farm — the camels looked half bored, half curious. One nuzzled my sleeve and snorted (I think he liked me). Yasin handed out sandboards next; sliding down felt nothing like snow — slower, grittier, but weirdly satisfying. I wiped out twice and got a cheer from a kid nearby. The sun started dipping low by then, painting everything in this soft orange haze that made even my messy hair look kind of magical in photos.

At the camp, someone pressed sweet dates into my palm and poured tiny cups of coffee that tasted smoky and sharp. There was music — not loud, just drifting — and a woman painted henna on my hand while her daughter giggled behind her scarf at my attempts to say “shukran.” Later we watched the Tanoura dancer spin until his skirt blurred into color. I tried shisha for the first time (coughing like an amateur), then sat back on a cushion under more stars than I’ve ever seen at home. It’s funny how quiet it gets out there when everyone’s full from dinner.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari

• Pick up from Abu Dhabi location
• Drive 45-50 minutes to desert
• See herds of camels
• Enjoy dune-bashing adventure
• Try sand-boarding activity
• Watch the desert sunset
• Visit traditional camp for coffee and dates
• Take short camel ride for photos
• Experience henna painting and shisha smoking
• Pose with falcon in traditional costume
• Watch Tanoura and Belly Dance performances

Top questions

How long does the Abu Dhabi desert safari take?

The tour lasts about half a day including pickup and drop-off—expect around 5-6 hours total.

Is hotel pickup included for this desert safari?

Yes, pickup is included from hotels or locations within Abu Dhabi city.

What activities are part of this Abu Dhabi desert safari?

Dune bashing, camel riding (short ride for photos), sandboarding, henna painting, shisha smoking, falcon photo op, Tanoura & belly dance shows.

Is food provided during the tour?

Yes—a BBQ dinner plus tea, coffee, soft drinks and dates are included at the desert camp.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or heart issues.

Can children join this evening desert safari?

Yes—specialized infant seats are available if needed.

How far is the desert from Abu Dhabi city?

The drive takes about 45–50 minutes each way by Land Cruiser.

Do you get to ride camels during this safari?

You’ll have a short camel ride mainly for photos at the camp area.

What’s included

Your afternoon starts with air-conditioned 4x4 pickup from your hotel or chosen spot in Abu Dhabi. You’ll visit a camel farm before heading deep into the dunes for guided dune bashing and sandboarding. At sunset you’ll reach a traditional camp where you can enjoy coffee and dates on arrival; try henna tattooing or shisha; pose with a falcon; watch Tanoura and belly dance performances; tuck into a BBQ dinner with soft drinks; then return to your hotel under starry skies.