Abu Dhabi Desert Safari: Sand Boarding, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Evening in the Al Khatim desert with sand, camels, and a smoky grill

You’ll ride through golden dunes outside Abu Dhabi with a local guide, try sand boarding (expect sand everywhere), visit camels up close, then relax at a Bedouin-style camp with Arabic coffee and a smoky BBQ dinner. Expect laughter, sunset light you won’t forget, and real warmth from your hosts.

What’s the experience like?

We bumped along the highway out of Abu Dhabi, city lights fading behind us while our driver, Kareem, joked about dune bashing being “the desert’s rollercoaster.” I didn’t really get it until we hit the Al Khatim desert — the car tilted at such odd angles I grabbed the seat in front of me. Sand everywhere, even in my shoes. We stopped at a camel farm first; the camels watched us with that slow blink like they’d seen it all before. Their fur was coarser than I expected when I reached out (they let you try feeding them if you want — not sure who was more awkward about it).

After that came the real sand boarding bit. It’s harder than it looks! The board kept trying to escape from under me and I ended up laughing more than sliding. Kareem cheered us on from below — he said he’d seen people do flips once but “not today,” with a wink. The sun started dropping fast and suddenly everything was gold. There was this hush over the dunes except for someone’s distant laughter and the wind brushing past my ears. That light is something I still think about.

The camp smelled like grilled meat and cardamom as soon as we arrived. We got handed tiny cups of Arabic coffee (I tried saying ‘shukran’ — got a smile for effort) and dates that were stickier than I expected. Inside, people were getting henna tattoos or dressing up in those long flowing robes for photos. The food was honestly way better than I thought: smoky kebabs, fluffy rice, salads with mint everywhere. There was a belly dancer who spun so fast her skirt blurred into color — kids clapped along and even some adults joined in by the end. By the time we drove back to Abu Dhabi under a sky full of stars, sand still stuck to my ankles, I felt both wired and weirdly peaceful.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert safari with activities and dinner

• Pickup from your location
• Drive to Al Khatim desert
• Stop at camel farm
• Ride over sand dunes
• Stop at scenic desert spot
• Arrive at Bedouin camp
• Receive traditional welcome
• Enjoy camel riding and henna tattoo
• Try sand boarding and costume photos
• Have BBQ dinner with live shows
• Return to starting location

Top questions

How long does the Abu Dhabi desert safari last?

The tour runs roughly from 3pm to 9:30pm but timing can vary depending on your pickup location.

Is hotel pickup included in this desert safari?

Yes, pickup from your location in Abu Dhabi is included.

What activities are included at the desert camp?

You can try camel riding, henna tattooing, sand boarding, take photos in traditional clothing, enjoy dinner and watch live dance shows.

Is dinner provided during the safari?

Yes, a BBQ dinner with various dishes like kebabs, rice, salads and dessert is included.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or heart issues.

Can children join this desert safari?

Yes, but infants must sit on an adult's lap during transport.

Where does the safari take place?

The main activities happen in Al Khatim desert outside Abu Dhabi city.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup from your hotel or chosen location in Abu Dhabi city, all transfers out to Al Khatim desert with a local guide behind the wheel for dune bashing fun; stops at a camel farm; sand boarding; entry to a Bedouin-style camp where you’ll be welcomed with Arabic coffee, tea and dates; options for camel riding or henna tattoos; plus dinner featuring grilled meats and salads before heading back under starry skies.