Dubai Desert Safari: 4x4 Dune Bashing, BBQ Dinner & Shows

Summary

Evening desert safari in Dubai with dune bashing, camel ride, live shows and barbecue dinner under the stars

You’ll feel the rush of dune bashing through golden sands near Dubai before relaxing with Arabic coffee and dates in a Bedouin camp. Try camel riding, henna painting or shisha while live dancers fill the night with color. End your evening under desert stars with barbecue dinner—these are moments that linger long after you’ve brushed off the sand.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is that weird hush when we stopped at the edge of the dunes outside Dubai — even the air felt different. Our driver, Khalid, grinned as he let some air out of the tires (I didn’t know why until later), and then suddenly we were bouncing over sand like kids on a rollercoaster. The 4x4 slid sideways down a slope and everyone started laughing — or maybe screaming? Hard to tell. Sand everywhere, golden light getting softer by the minute. I tried to take a photo but honestly it never looked like what I was seeing.

We stopped for sunset — that’s when you really get it. The sky goes kind of lavender and orange at once, and there’s this dry warmth on your face. Someone handed me sweet dates and tiny cups of Arabic coffee at the camp (the cardamom hit me first). There were camels waiting nearby, chewing in that slow way they do. I climbed up for my “short camel ride” (I’m not sure who was more awkward, me or the camel) while a little kid waved at us from his dad’s lap on another one.

Inside the Bedouin-style camp, everything smelled like grilled meat and spices. There was a guy doing henna painting — I got a tiny swirl on my wrist because why not? My friend tried shisha for the first time and coughed so hard she nearly knocked over her tea glass; even Khalid laughed at that one. The belly dancer spun so fast her skirt turned into this blur of color, then there was fire everywhere for a second during the show (don’t sit too close!).

I still think about sitting there after dinner, plate full of kebabs and rice, looking up at all those stars you never see in Dubai city itself. It’s noisy with music but also weirdly peaceful if you step away for a second. If you’re thinking about booking a Dubai desert safari day trip — just go hungry and bring some curiosity with you. That’s pretty much all you need.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening desert safari and cultural experience

• Stop for desert dunes photos
• Stop for falcon photos
• Enjoy 30-40 minute dune drive
• Stop for sunset
• Arrive at Arabic Bedouin camp
• Traditional welcome with coffee and dates
• Relax at Bedouin camp
• Watch Tanura dance show
• Watch belly dance and fire show
• Enjoy free camel ride
• Get traditional henna painting
• Smoke shisha
• Wear traditional Arabian costumes for photos
• Optional photos with Arabian falcon
• Enjoy gourmet barbecue dinner under stars

Top questions

How long does the Dubai desert safari last?

The evening desert safari lasts about 6 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included in this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

What activities are included in this desert safari?

Dune bashing, camel ride, live dance shows (belly dance, Tanura), fire show, henna painting, sandboarding, shisha smoking (in designated area), and barbecue dinner are included.

Are food and drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, you'll have unlimited soft drinks/tea/coffee/water plus a buffet BBQ dinner with vegetarian options.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant travelers?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues but specialized infant seats are available.

Can I try on traditional Arabian costumes during this experience?

Yes, traditional Arabian costumes for both men and women are available for photos at the camp.

Is sandboarding part of this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, sandboarding is included as one of the activities during your visit.

How long is each camel ride?

The camel rides are short but can be repeated if you'd like another go.

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned Land Cruiser; adrenaline-filled dune bashing; unlimited soft drinks plus tea or coffee; live belly dance, Tanura dance, fire show and Al Ayyala performances; sandboarding; henna painting; multiple short camel rides; access to shisha in designated areas; buffet BBQ dinner with vegetarian options; photo opportunities in traditional costumes—all guided by friendly local staff before returning to your hotel at night.