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

Summary

Dune bashing thrills sunset campfire laughter in dubai’s sands

You’ll ride across Dubai’s dunes in a 4x4 with a local driver, snap sunset photos on soft sand, sip Arabic tea at camp, try camel riding or sandboarding if you want, then settle in for a BBQ dinner with live belly dance and fire shows under desert stars. It’s not just about adrenaline — there are quieter moments too that might stick with you.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the seat tighter than I’d admit, I caught myself grinning as our Land Cruiser bounced over another dune outside Dubai. Our driver — Saeed, who kept one hand relaxed on the wheel like he’d done this forever — laughed when someone squealed in the back. The sand looked almost pink in the late light, and honestly, my heart was thumping so loud I barely heard his playlist. We stopped for photos right as the sun started dropping; it wasn’t quiet exactly, but there was this weird hush over everyone for a second. Sand everywhere — in my shoes already.

At the camp, someone handed me a tiny cup of cardamom tea before I’d even figured out where to sit. The smell mixed with something sweet — dates maybe? Kids were already climbing onto camels (I waited until later), and a few people tried sandboarding down a little hill behind the tents. One of the women doing henna smiled at my terrible attempt to pronounce “shukran.” Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin — probably butchered it. There was this low hum of voices and music starting up; felt like everyone was just… softer out here.

By dinner time, I’d given up on keeping sand out of anything. The buffet had way more options than I expected (the grilled chicken was my favorite), and there were these bright lights strung everywhere that made everything look warmer than it probably was. The fire show got everyone’s phones out — you could feel the heat from where we sat. The belly dancers were mesmerizing; at some point, one pulled a guy from our group up to dance and we all lost it laughing. It’s strange how fast you relax after sunset in the desert — or maybe that’s just what happens when you eat too much and watch stars come out overhead.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert safari with camp activities and dinner

• Pick up by 4x4 Toyota SUV
• Dune bashing in Lahbab desert
• Enjoy sunset photography
• Arrive at desert camp
• Traditional welcome with Arabic tea and coffee
• Try Arabic sweets and fresh fruits
• Experience camel ride and sand boarding
• Get henna painting and try sheesha smoking
• Wear Arabic dress for photography
• Enjoy international buffet dinner with BBQ
• Watch fire show and light display
• See Tanoura and live belly dance shows
• Drop back to hotel or residence

Top questions

What activities are included in the Dubai desert safari?

The tour includes dune bashing by 4x4 Land Cruiser, camel riding, sandboarding, henna painting, shisha smoking, Arabic dress photography, and live entertainment shows at the camp.

Is hotel pickup included for this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, hotel or residence pickup and drop-off within Dubai are included in your booking.

What kind of food is served during the BBQ dinner?

The buffet dinner offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes along with Arabic sweets and fresh fruits.

How long does dune bashing last on this tour?

Dune bashing lasts approximately 45 minutes in Lahbab desert during sundown hours.

Are drinks provided during the safari?

Yes, unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, tea, and coffee are available throughout the experience.

Is this Dubai desert safari suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants can ride in prams or strollers and specialized infant seats are available upon request.

How many people share each car for dune bashing?

This is a shared tour with up to 6 people per car during dune bashing.

Are all drivers licensed for desert safaris?

Yes, all drivers hold UAE government licenses specifically for desert safaris.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by 4x4 Land Cruiser with a licensed driver; unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, tea and coffee; snacks; access to all camp activities like camel rides and sandboarding; henna painting; shisha; an international buffet BBQ dinner with vegetarian options; plus live Tanoura dance shows and belly dancing before heading back to your hotel at night.