Dubai Desert: Dune Buggy Safari, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Dubai desert adventure with dune buggy rides, camel trek and sunset bbq

You’ll feel the thrill of driving a 1000cc dune buggy across Dubai’s red sands before slowing down for a camel ride and sunset tea. Try sandboarding if you’re brave (or just laugh along), then unwind with BBQ dinner and music under desert stars. It’s an evening full of moments that linger long after you’ve brushed off the last grains of sand.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit it — I wasn’t sure if I’d actually like bouncing around the Dubai desert in a dune buggy. But there’s something about seeing that endless stretch of red sand, especially when you’re out there with the wind whipping past your ears and the engine humming under you. Our guide, Kareem, was grinning like he knew exactly what was coming. He pointed out how the light hit the dunes differently as we drove — almost pink at first, then deep orange. I kept getting little bursts of warm air mixed with that dry, dusty scent. It sticks to your skin in a weirdly satisfying way.

After all that adrenaline from dune bashing (my arms were still shaking), we stopped for camel rides. I’d never actually been on a camel before — they’re taller than you think and make these low grumbling noises when you climb up. The handler handed me the reins and said something in Arabic I couldn’t catch; he laughed when I tried to repeat it back. There was this moment where everything went kind of quiet except for our group’s awkward laughter and the sound of hooves pressing into sand.

The sun started dropping fast after that. We watched it melt behind the dunes while Kareem passed around tiny cups of sweet tea. Someone tried sandboarding — not me, my balance is terrible — but it looked fun (and sandy). Later, under this big open sky full of stars, we had a BBQ dinner with grilled lamb and fresh flatbread that tasted smoky and soft at once. There was music too — drums and some kind of flute — plus henna painting if you wanted it. A falconer brought out his bird for a quick show; honestly, I didn’t expect to be so fascinated by how calm that falcon looked perched on his glove.

I still think about how different everything felt out there compared to city life — quieter somehow, but also more alive? Hard to explain unless you’ve sat on cool sand after sunset with strangers who suddenly feel like friends.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and cultural experience

• Dune bashing in 4x4 vehicle
• Camel ride in desert
• Sandboarding down dunes
• Watch desert sunset
• Enjoy BBQ dinner under stars
• Watch traditional music and dance
• Get henna painting
• See falconry display

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Dubai dune buggy safari?

Yes, pickup is included in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What activities are part of this Dubai desert tour?

The tour includes dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, BBQ dinner, henna painting, traditional music performances, and a falconry display.

Can children join the Dubai dune buggy safari?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult's lap or use specialized infant seats; small children can use prams or strollers.

Is this safari suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it's not recommended for pregnant travelers.

How long does the Dubai desert safari last?

The exact duration isn't specified but typically lasts several hours including transport and dinner.

Are vegetarian options available at the BBQ dinner?

The reference doesn't specify vegetarian options; please check directly with your tour provider if needed.

Do I need prior experience to drive the dune buggy?

No prior experience is required to drive the 1000cc dune buggy.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near pickup points.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from your hotel or meeting point in Dubai. You’ll get to drive a new model 1000cc dune buggy across red sands, try camel riding and sandboarding, watch a falconry display, enjoy henna painting by skilled artists, and end with a BBQ dinner accompanied by traditional Arabic music before heading back in comfort.