Abu Dhabi: Desert Safari, Dune Drive & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Abu Dhabi desert safari with sunset dune drive, camel ride and BBQ dinner in a Bedouin camp

You’ll leave Abu Dhabi behind for an afternoon of dune driving and sandboarding before settling into a Bedouin camp for camel rides, henna painting, and a generous barbecue dinner under desert stars. With local guides leading you through each moment—from sunset silence to lively music—you’ll find yourself laughing more than you planned and maybe lingering over that last cup of tea.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever tried sandboarding?” That’s how our guide, Hassan, broke the ice as we bumped out of Abu Dhabi in the 4x4. I’d barely caught my breath from the city traffic before we hit those first rolling dunes—honestly, it felt like riding a rollercoaster built from sunlight and sand. The air was dry but not harsh, and I could taste something metallic on the wind. We stopped at this high point—I’m not sure what time it was, but the sky had that gold-pink haze—and everyone just went quiet for a second. Except for one kid who kept yelling “faster!” every time Hassan revved up the engine.

At the Bedouin camp, there was this soft smell of charcoal and cardamom drifting around. A woman named Fatima painted henna on my hand while her daughter giggled at my attempts to pronounce “shukran” (I still think I got it wrong). The camels looked unimpressed by us tourists but let me climb up anyway—awkwardly, if I’m honest. My friend tried on a kandura and nearly tripped over it; we laughed so hard we almost missed the start of dinner. The barbecue buffet wasn’t fancy but tasted better than most things back home—maybe because we’d been out in that desert air for hours.

Later, there was music—deep drums and something sharp from a flute—and a belly dancer who seemed to float more than move. I lay back on one of those low cushions with some sweet mint tea and just watched the sky shift into deep blue. There were stars everywhere, even though someone nearby kept trying to catch them on his phone (good luck with that). I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed out there after all that bouncing around earlier.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert safari and Bedouin camp experience

• Depart Abu Dhabi city
• Drive 4WD over sand dunes
• Stop at highest dune for sunset
• Refresh with mineral water
• Continue to Bedouin campsite
• Enjoy henna painting and local costumes
• Ride a camel
• Smoke flavored shisha
• Watch belly and folk dancers
• Eat barbecue buffet dinner

Top questions

How long does the Abu Dhabi desert safari last?

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included in this desert safari?

Yes, pickup is included from Abu Dhabi hotels or agreed meeting points.

Are food and drinks provided during the tour?

A full barbecue buffet dinner plus unlimited soft drinks, coffee, and tea are included.

Can children join the Abu Dhabi afternoon desert safari?

Infants below 5 years old are not recommended on shared tours; specialized seats are available for small children.

What activities are offered at the Bedouin camp?

You can try camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting, wear local costumes, enjoy shisha, and watch dance performances.

Is this safari suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to dune driving.

Are there vegetarian options at dinner?

The barbecue buffet includes various dishes; vegetarian options are typically available.

Will there be opportunities for photos?

Yes, you’ll have plenty of chances for photos in traditional attire or with camels at sunset.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes air-conditioned vehicle pickup from your hotel in Abu Dhabi, a thrilling dune drive with stops for sunset photos and sandboarding if you want to try it. At the Bedouin camp you’ll get henna painting, camel rides, photo opportunities in traditional Arabic dress, unlimited soft drinks plus coffee or tea throughout the evening—and finally a full buffet barbecue dinner before heading back to town under the night sky.