Abu Dhabi Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Camel Rides & Live BBQ

Summary

Abu Dhabi desert safari with live BBQ, camel rides, dune bashing and shows

You’ll feel your pulse race during dune bashing outside Abu Dhabi before slowing down for camel rides at sunset. Enjoy unlimited tea at a Bedouin-style camp while live BBQ sizzles nearby, then watch belly dancers and fire shows under lantern light. It’s a night where laughter lingers—and you might still find sand in your shoes after.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really expect my heart to end up somewhere between my throat and my stomach before dinner, but that’s exactly what happened on this Abu Dhabi desert safari. Our driver—Ali, who grinned like he knew a secret—hit the gas as soon as we reached the dunes. Sand sprayed everywhere. I grabbed the seat in front of me (maybe too tight) while everyone laughed or squealed. The 4x4 felt like a boat on wild waves. My shoes filled with sand by the time we stopped for sunset, but honestly? Worth it for that weirdly peaceful hush you get out there when the engines cut off and all you hear is wind.

After that, I tried riding a camel (they’re taller than they look), and Li from our group snapped a photo just as I nearly slid off—she still sends it to me sometimes. The camp smelled like spiced meat and wood smoke; it was almost dark by then, lanterns glowing low. Our guide pointed out the tea tent first (“unlimited,” he promised) and then let us wander until dinner. When the BBQ started sizzling, everyone drifted closer—there was way more food than I expected, both veg and non-veg stuff piled high. I kept going back for those grilled eggplants.

Later came the music and dancing—belly dancing first, then a fire show that made everyone gasp (I swear I felt the heat from where I sat). There was this spinning Tanura dancer too; his skirt looked like something from another planet under all those lights. By then, I’d lost track of time completely. We left with sand in our socks and bellies full, dropped back at our hotel by midnight or so—I still think about that sky out there, how big it felt compared to the city.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert safari with entertainment and BBQ

• Dune bashing in 4x4 vehicle
• Visit Bedouin-style camp
• Camel riding and sandboarding
• Watch desert sunset
• Enjoy live BBQ dinner
• Watch live performances

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Abu Dhabi desert safari?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or residence in Abu Dhabi are included.

What kind of food is served at the live BBQ?

The BBQ buffet includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options with unlimited drinks.

Are there live performances during the tour?

Yes, you’ll see belly dancing, fire shows, and Tanura performances at the camp.

Can infants or small children join this desert safari?

Yes, infants can ride in a pram or stroller; specialized infant seats are available.

Is this Abu Dhabi desert safari wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

How long does dune bashing last on this trip?

The dune bashing session is one part of the evening experience before arriving at camp.

Is an English-speaking guide provided?

Yes, a licensed English guide accompanies you throughout the tour.

Are drinks included during dinner?

Unlimited tea and water are included along with unlimited drinks at dinner.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup and drop-off from your Abu Dhabi hotel or residence, an adrenaline-filled dune bashing session in a 4x4 vehicle with a licensed English guide, camel rides at sunset, unlimited tea and water at a Bedouin-style camp, plus a live BBQ buffet (with vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices), unlimited drinks throughout dinner, and live entertainment featuring belly dancing, fire shows, and Tanura performances before heading back to your hotel late in the evening.