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

Summary

Desert adventure in Abu Dhabi with dune rides, camel moments and live shows

You’ll feel your heart race on wild dunes near Abu Dhabi, then slow down for a sunset camel ride and photos you’ll want to keep forever. With VIP seating for dinner and live shows under desert stars, you’ll taste local flavors and catch real moments with guides and fellow travelers — it’s less about perfection than just being there.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how quiet it got when we left Abu Dhabi — just the hum of the 4x4 AC and our driver Rashid’s playlist (some old Arabic pop, some Ed Sheeran for good measure). We were barely out of the city before the sand started to swallow up everything outside the window. Honestly, I was a little nervous about the dune bashing part. Turns out it’s half rollercoaster, half laughter therapy — my friend nearly lost her scarf to the wind, and Rashid kept grinning in the rearview like he’d seen it all before.

After that wild ride, everything slowed down. Camels standing around like they owned the place. The smell of cardamom drifted from somewhere behind the tents. I tried to climb onto my camel as gracefully as possible (spoiler: not graceful), but our guide just winked and said, “First time is always funny.” The sun was dropping fast — that kind of gold you only get in desert air — so we took a million photos even though none really caught it right.

By dinner time, I’d gotten sand everywhere (still finding some in my shoes), but nobody cared because there was this huge spread waiting: grilled chicken, kebabs, rice dishes I couldn’t pronounce. Sitting in those VIP chairs was actually a relief after all that bouncing around; someone handed me sweet tea while dancers spun by the firelight. The belly dancer smiled at a kid who tried to copy her moves — everyone clapped along without thinking about it too much. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed out there under all those stars.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Abu Dhabi Desert Safari Experience

• Pick up from hotel in 4x4
• Dune bashing across desert sands
• Gentle camel ride at camp
• Capture sunset photos in desert
• Dine with BBQ buffet under stars
• Enjoy live belly dance and shows
• Return to hotel after safari

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Abu Dhabi desert safari?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included anywhere in Abu Dhabi city.

What activities are part of this desert safari?

Dune bashing in a 4x4, camel ride, sandboarding, sunset photo stop, live shows and BBQ dinner are included.

Are vegetarian options available at dinner?

Yes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes are offered at the buffet dinner.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; small children can use a stroller or pram.

Are there live performances during dinner?

Yes, you’ll see belly dancing, Tanoura dance and fire shows during dinner at camp.

How long does the camel ride last?

The camel ride is short and takes place inside a circle at camp for experience.

Is wheelchair access available?

Yes, this tour is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to pay extra for VIP area dining?

No extra fee; complimentary VIP seating is included in your booking (normally $15 per person).

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned 4x4 from anywhere in Abu Dhabi city, thrilling dune bashing across high dunes with an experienced driver, a gentle camel ride inside camp for that classic desert feel, sandboarding if you’re up for it, plus plenty of time for sunset photos deep in the sands. At camp you’ll have complimentary access to VIP area seating for your BBQ buffet dinner (with both veg and non-veg options), unlimited soft drinks or tea/coffee with your meal, plus live entertainment featuring belly dance, Tanoura spinning and fire shows before heading back into town.