Dubai Desert Safari: Camel Ride, Sandboarding & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Golden dunes camel rides fire shows and a desert bbq under the stars

You’ll feel Dubai’s desert come alive: racing over dunes in a 4x4, riding camels at sunset, tumbling down sand slopes on a board, then sharing smoky BBQ under lantern light as dancers spin by your table. Every moment feels both bigger and quieter than you expect—especially when you catch yourself smiling at strangers across the firelight.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the crunch of sand under our boots when we stepped out of the 4x4 — not silent, but soft, like walking on a giant pillow that sometimes squeaks. Our driver, Kareem, grinned as he handed out cold bottles of water. He’d been telling us stories about growing up near Al Ain on the drive from Dubai city (which took maybe an hour? I lost track watching the city fade into nothing but gold). The air smelled dry and warm, with this faint hint of spice from somewhere — maybe someone’s perfume or just my own imagination running wild.

I’ll admit: I was nervous about sandboarding. Kareem just laughed and said, “No one stands up their first time.” He wasn’t wrong. My attempt ended with me face-first in the sand — it gets everywhere, by the way — but honestly, it was more fun than I expected. We watched the sun drop behind these endless dunes while sipping sweet tea (I think it was cardamom?), and for a second everything went quiet except for someone’s laughter echoing over the hills. That sunset is still stuck in my head.

The camel ride felt slower than I thought it would — almost meditative. The guide leading our little caravan didn’t say much, just pointed once at some tracks in the sand (fox? lizard? I never found out). At camp, we were welcomed with dates and coffee so strong it made me blink. There were lanterns everywhere and people chatting in half a dozen languages. The BBQ dinner was smoky and rich; I piled my plate high with grilled lamb and salads I couldn’t name. Later, we sat back to watch dancers spin and swirl — the fire dancer especially had everyone holding their breath for a second too long.

By the time we climbed back into Kareem’s car for the drive home, my shoes were full of sand and my phone battery was dead from all the photos. It’s funny how you can feel both tired and kind of charged up after something like that. Still not sure if I’ll ever get all that sand out of my backpack.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert safari with activities and dinner

• Hotel pick-up in 4-wheel-drive
• Drive over towering desert dunes
• Watch sunset with soft drink
• Arrive at Bedouin camp
• Welcome with Arabic coffee and dates
• Camel ride through desert sands
• Sandboarding down dunes
• Enjoy BBQ dinner under stars
• Watch Tanoura, belly dance, fire show
• Transfer back to hotel

Top questions

How long does the Dubai desert safari last?

The tour typically lasts around 6-7 hours including pickup from your hotel in Dubai and return after dinner.

Is hotel pickup included in this Dubai desert safari?

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

What activities are part of this Dubai desert safari?

You’ll enjoy dune driving, camel rides, sandboarding, live entertainment (Tanoura dance, belly dancing except during Ramadan), plus a BBQ dinner.

Are drinks included during the safari?

Yes, unlimited soft drinks as well as house beverages like beer and wine are included at camp.

Is this safari suitable for kids?

Children aged 5-11 are welcome; infants require special seats which must be booked in advance for safety reasons.

Where does this Dubai desert safari take place?

The tour takes place inside the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR), away from other operators.

Is vegetarian food available during dinner?

Yes, vegetarian options and kids’ meals are available—just mention dietary needs when booking.

What should I wear for this desert safari?

Modest dress with comfortable closed shoes is recommended due to sandy terrain and cultural respect.

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel pickup by air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle into the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve; guided dune driving; camel ride through golden sands; all equipment for sandboarding; unlimited soft drinks plus beer and wine at camp; a regional buffet BBQ dinner under lanterns; live performances with Tanoura dance, belly dancing (except during Ramadan), and fire show before returning comfortably to your hotel late evening.