Abu Dhabi: Desert Safari with Dune Bashing & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Desert adventure from Abu Dhabi with camel rides & dinner

You’ll feel the thrill of dune bashing outside Abu Dhabi before sharing cardamom coffee and dates at a desert camp. Ride camels across shifting sands, try your luck at sand boarding or henna painting, then unwind over barbecue dinner as dancers spin by firelight. Expect laughter, warmth, and that rare sense of being somewhere truly different.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect from a desert safari in Abu Dhabi — I’d seen the photos, but being out there is something else. The city faded behind us as our driver (Ali, who had this easy laugh) steered the 4x4 straight into those endless dunes. The sand was this pale gold that kept changing color as the sun shifted. I remember gripping the seat during dune bashing — it’s like a rollercoaster but quieter, just the crunch of tires and Ali’s playlist humming low. My friend shrieked at every drop; I pretended not to be scared but… yeah, my heart was racing.

We stopped at a Bedouin-style camp tucked between the dunes. The smell of cardamom coffee hit me first — warm and sweet — then someone handed me a date so sticky it glued my fingers together for a second. There were camels waiting nearby, looking both bored and regal (I swear one winked at me). Riding one was awkward and lurching but kind of peaceful once you got used to its rhythm. Our guide explained how these animals are still part of daily life for some families here, which made me see them differently.

I tried sand boarding (badly), wiped out twice, and ended up laughing with a couple from Mumbai who were just as hopeless. Later, someone painted henna on my hand while we watched the sun drop behind the dunes — everything turned pink for about five minutes. Dinner was smoky barbecue under string lights; I piled my plate with grilled lamb and flatbread while a dancer spun so fast her skirt blurred into colors I can’t even name. There was shisha too if you wanted it, though I mostly stuck to sweet tea because honestly, I’m terrible at smoking anything.

I keep thinking about that quiet moment after dinner when everyone just sat back in the sand, full and tired and watching stars blink on overhead. It felt far away from everything else — in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Abu Dhabi Desert Safari and BBQ Dinner

• Start desert safari tour
• Experience dune bashing adventure
• Try sand boarding
• Ride camel in desert
• Visit Bedouin-themed camp
• Enjoy Henna painting
• Taste Arabic dates and coffee
• Smoke Sheesha
• Watch Belly Dance and Tannura show
• View desert sunset
• Have BBQ dinner with drinks

Top questions

How long does the Abu Dhabi desert safari last?

The desert safari tour lasts approximately 6 hours.

Is hotel pickup included in the Abu Dhabi desert safari?

Yes, pickup is included for guests joining the tour.

What activities are included in this desert safari?

The tour includes dune bashing, camel riding, sand boarding, henna painting, shisha smoking (optional), dance shows, and a BBQ dinner.

Are drinks provided during the safari?

Soda/pop and bottled water are included during the experience.

Is this Abu Dhabi desert safari suitable for children?

Specialized infant seats are available; however, it's not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or heart conditions.

Can I try quad biking on this tour?

You may rent a quad bike separately if you wish to add that activity.

What kind of food is served for dinner?

A traditional BBQ dinner is served at the camp along with drinks like tea or soda.

What’s included

Your day includes air-conditioned transfers from Abu Dhabi with pickup service, all dune bashing adventures led by your local guide Ali (or someone equally friendly), camel riding through golden sands, chances to try sand boarding or get henna painted hands if you’re feeling brave, plus unlimited bottled water or soda to keep cool before settling down for a smoky barbecue dinner under desert stars.