Abu Dhabi Desert Safari with Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Evening Desert Adventure from Abu Dhabi with Local Guide

Experience dune bashing near Abu Dhabi, meet camels up close, and relax at a desert camp with traditional food and live shows. Try sand skiing or henna painting if you want, then share a barbecue dinner beneath open stars — moments you’ll remember long after leaving the desert.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the sand to feel cold at sunset — that was the first surprise. Our driver, Khaled, grinned as he let some air out of the tires before we hit the dunes outside Abu Dhabi. The 4x4 felt like a rollercoaster on soft caramel waves, and I caught myself laughing (and maybe swearing) as we bounced over each crest. My friend tried to film but mostly got shaky footage of our faces squished against the windows. Dune bashing is way more intense than it looks on Instagram — you just have to trust your driver and hold on.

We stopped at a camel farm where the air smelled faintly sweet, almost grassy. The camels looked unimpressed by us city people trying to snap selfies; one of them gave me a look I’m still thinking about. Khaled introduced us to his cousin who works there — he showed us how to sit properly for a camel ride (harder than it sounds). I tried saying thank you in Arabic and got a big smile in return, even though I probably butchered it. The ride itself was slow and lurching, but kind of peaceful once you get used to the rhythm.

The desert camp was already glowing with lanterns when we arrived. There were dates and tiny cups of Arabic coffee waiting for us — bitter but somehow comforting after all that sand. I let a falcon perch on my arm for a photo (it’s heavier than you’d think), then wandered over to watch someone get an intricate henna tattoo drawn freehand. The barbecue dinner smelled smoky and spicy; I piled my plate high and sat cross-legged under the stars while dancers spun in bright skirts around the fire. At one point everything went quiet except for the wind moving through the tents — that silence stuck with me more than anything else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Abu Dhabi Desert Safari Adventure

• 4×4 dune-bashing session
• Watch desert sunset
• Visit camel farm and camel ride
• Enjoy belly dance and Tanoura shows
• Try traditional Arabic costumes and henna tattoo
• Falcon photo opportunity
• Authentic Arabic BBQ dinner
• Star gazing in desert

Top questions

How long does the Abu Dhabi desert safari last?

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

Is hotel pickup included in this Abu Dhabi desert safari?

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

Can vegetarians eat at the BBQ dinner?

A limited vegetarian option is available based on the buffet menu.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

What activities are included besides dune bashing?

You can try camel riding, sand skiing/boarding, henna painting, shisha smoking, watch belly dance & Tanoura shows, dress in Arabic costumes, and take photos with a falcon.

What should I wear for this Abu Dhabi desert safari?

Comfortable clothing is advised; closed shoes and trousers are best for quad biking. Bring warm layers during winter months (October–March).

Is there entertainment during Ramadan?

No live entertainment is provided during Ramadan due to local customs.

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, all entry fees for activities like dune bashing and camel riding, plus sand skiing or boarding if you’re up for it. You’ll get water, Arabic coffee, tea with dates on arrival at camp, try shisha if you want, see live dance performances (except during Ramadan), taste an authentic BBQ dinner with soft drinks included, and head back after stargazing in the cool night air.