If you want an evening that feels both relaxed and full of surprises, this desert dinner tour is it. You’ll eat well under open skies, watch live shows you won’t see anywhere else, and get just enough adventure—with camel rides and sunset views—to make it feel special.
The first thing I noticed stepping out of the van was the quiet—just a soft wind moving across endless sand dunes. Our driver pointed out the ghaf trees nearby, which I’d never seen before; apparently, they’re the UAE’s national tree. We walked over carpets and cushions into a torch-lit camp that looked like something out of an old storybook. Someone handed me a tiny cup of Arabic coffee—strong and earthy, with a hint of cardamom—and dates to nibble on while we settled in.
As the sun started dipping behind the dunes, we took turns riding camels (they’re taller than you think!) and even tried a short horse ride. There was a spot set up for henna painting too; I watched a local artist swirl designs onto hands with practiced speed. The air smelled like grilled meat and spices from the barbecue getting started nearby. When dinner was ready, we helped ourselves to shawarma wraps and kebabs straight off the grill—plus salads and some things I couldn’t name but tasted anyway.
After dark, the real show began: swirling Tanoura dancers in bright skirts, an Emirati hair dance (the way their hair moved was wild), then belly dancing and a fire performance that had everyone reaching for their phones. Between acts, there was live music—sometimes traditional, sometimes more modern tunes. The staff made sure everyone had enough water or soda; it gets dry out there even after sunset. Before heading back to Dubai, we all gathered for photos with the last bit of daylight fading over the sand.
Yes! Kids can join in on camel rides, henna painting, and enjoy the shows. Just let us know if you need space for strollers or prams.
Absolutely—please mention any dietary needs when booking so we can make sure there are options for you at the buffet.
Light clothes work best since it can be warm during the day but bring a light jacket—it cools down after sunset in the desert.
No entertainment or alcohol is served during Ramadan as per local customs. The rest of the experience remains unchanged.
Your evening includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubai, all-you-can-eat BBQ buffet with international dishes, soft drinks and water throughout, camel ride, horse ride option, henna painting station, live music plus belly dancing, Tanoura dance show, fire performance—and time to catch that perfect sunset photo over the dunes.
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