Abu Dhabi Desert Safari: Private 4x4, BBQ Dinner & Live Shows

Summary

Private 4x4 ride across Abu Dhabi dunes with sunset camp & BBQ

You’ll race across golden Abu Dhabi dunes in your own 4x4, try sandboarding (wipeouts welcome), and ride camels as the sun sets over endless sand. At a Bedouin-style camp, share Arabic coffee and dates before digging into a BBQ buffet with live belly dance and fire shows. The desert feels different at night—quiet but somehow full of life.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the sand to feel cold under my fingers when we stopped the 4x4 for photos — but it was, just a bit, even though the sun was still hanging on. Our driver, Khalid, grinned when he caught me brushing it off my jeans. He told us these dunes outside Abu Dhabi shift every year, like they’re alive. The drive itself? Let’s just say I laughed so hard during dune bashing I probably startled a few lizards (and maybe myself). It’s wilder than it looks in videos.

Sandboarding was next — way harder than snow, by the way. I wiped out twice but honestly didn’t care; there’s something about falling in soft sand that makes you want to try again. The camel ride at sunset felt almost too quiet after all that noise and bouncing around. The camels moved slow and steady, their feet making these soft thuds I can still hear if I close my eyes. Khalid showed us how to greet them properly (I think mine liked me — or at least tolerated me).

The Bedouin-style camp was already glowing with lanterns when we arrived. There was this sweet smell from the shisha pipes mixing with grilled meat from the BBQ buffet. Arabic coffee tasted earthy and strong — not what I’m used to at home — and the dates were sticky and rich. People chatted quietly until the music started up for the belly dance and Tanoura show; suddenly everyone was clapping along or just staring at the fire dancer spinning sparks into the night air. It felt like time slowed down a little out there, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert safari with dinner and shows

• Drive 4x4 across golden dunes
• Carve down sand slopes on board
• Ride camel at sunset
• Arrive at Bedouin-style camp
• Drink Arabic coffee and eat dates
• Enjoy BBQ buffet dinner
• Watch belly-dance, Tanoura, fire shows

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Abu Dhabi desert safari?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your private tour.

How long does the private desert safari last?

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Are meals provided during the desert safari?

Yes, a BBQ buffet dinner is included at the Bedouin-style camp.

What activities are part of this Abu Dhabi desert safari?

You’ll experience dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, live shows (belly dance, Tanoura, fire), shisha, and more.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, all fitness levels are welcome and infant seats are available if needed.

Are drinks included on this safari?

Water and soft drinks are provided throughout your experience.

Can I use public transportation to reach the starting point?

Public transportation options are available nearby if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Abu Dhabi by private 4x4 vehicle, dune bashing over golden sands, sandboarding fun (even if you fall!), a gentle camel ride at sunset, plus water and soft drinks to keep cool. At camp you’ll have Arabic coffee with dates before enjoying a BBQ buffet dinner alongside live belly dance, Tanoura show, fire performance—and even shisha if you want to try it—before heading back under starry skies.