Abu Dhabi Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Camel Rides & BBQ
Six hours in the desert: the vehicle does the adrenaline, the camp does the rest.
An evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi combines dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle with camel riding, sandboarding and a live BBQ buffet at a Bedouin-style camp, finishing with belly dancing, fire shows and Tanura performances. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and an English-speaking guide leads the group. The full outing runs 6 hours from pickup to return.
What’s included
- 4x4 dune bashing.
- camel riding.
- sandboarding.
- live BBQ buffet with vegetarian and meat options.
- henna tattoos for women and children.
- belly dancing, fire shows and Tanura performances.
- unlimited tea, soft drinks and water.
- hotel pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Abu Dhabi.
- English-speaking guide.
Times
- Every day No fixed time
Before you book
Operated by Off Road Tourism LLC
Prices and times updated 3 days ago
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The experience
What makes this different from a standard desert tour is the sequence: you start with the dune bashing itself (the 4x4 climbs and drops over the sand in ways a regular vehicle cannot), then move to the camp where the pace slows. That shift matters. After the ride, you're standing in a Bedouin-style setup where camel riding, sandboarding and henna tattoos (for women and children) fill the quieter part of the evening. The sunset happens somewhere in between, which is why the timing works: the adrenaline comes first, then the stillness.
The BBQ buffet arrives as the light goes. Both vegetarian and meat options are laid out, and you eat under the stars while the live performances unfold: belly dancing, fire shows, and the Tanura (a spinning dervish-style act). Unlimited tea, soft drinks and water run throughout. The entertainment is the anchor of the second half. It is not background music while you eat, but the reason the camp gathers. Separate facilities for men and women are on-site.
Hotel pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Abu Dhabi are included, so the logistics of getting to the desert are handled. The guide speaks English and moves the group through the activities. Children from age 1 are welcome, though infants sit on an adult's lap during the dune bashing. The whole outing is 6 hours, which means you leave in the late afternoon and return after dark.
Is this one for you?The 6-hour commitment means you leave in the late afternoon and return after dark, so it fits an evening that is otherwise free. The dune bashing happens first while you have energy for it, then the pace shifts to the camp and the meal, which works if you want the thrill without spending the whole day in motion.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 9 years); Infant (1 to 2 years): free.
What is dune bashing actually like in a 4x4?
Dune bashing is a ride over sand dunes in a 4x4 vehicle where the driver navigates steep climbs and descents across the desert. It is the adrenaline-focused part of the safari, happening before you reach the camp.
What happens at the Bedouin camp after dune bashing?
At the camp, you ride camels, try sandboarding, get henna tattoos (women and children), and watch the sunset. Then the BBQ buffet is served with live entertainment including belly dancing, fire shows and Tanura performances.
Is the BBQ dinner vegetarian-friendly?
The BBQ buffet includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, so vegetarian guests have choices at the meal.
What time does the safari start and end?
The full outing is 6 hours from hotel pickup to drop-off, departing in the late afternoon so you return after dark. Your hotel pickup time will be confirmed when you book.
What drinks are included?
Unlimited tea, soft drinks and water are included throughout the 6 hours. Sheesha (hubbly bubbly) is available for separate purchase.
Abu Dhabi Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Camel Rides & BBQ
6h · EN · at your hotel
from AED 196 per person
≈ US$ 52 in your currency
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