Dubai Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, BBQ Dinner & Dance Shows

Summary

Desert adventure from Dubai with dune rides, camel moments, shisha and live music

You’ll get picked up in Dubai for an evening of dune bashing across golden sands, camel rides under open skies, and sunset photos you’ll want to keep forever. Try shisha or Arabic coffee at camp, watch live dances by firelight, and enjoy a full barbecue dinner before heading back to your hotel—still sandy and probably smiling.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I was nervous about the whole “dune bashing” thing. The driver picked us up right outside our hotel in Dubai (so easy), and before I knew it we were bouncing through these wild orange dunes. The 4x4 felt like a rollercoaster, sand spraying up against the windows every time we slid down a steep bit. Our guide, Ahmed, laughed when I grabbed the seat — apparently that’s normal. I could smell the hot sand through the AC vents, which is weirdly comforting if you’re not thinking about getting stuck.

After all that adrenaline, stepping out at the desert camp felt like landing on another planet. There was this quiet hum — people chatting softly in Arabic, camels shifting around with their big sleepy eyes. I tried riding one (awkward but worth it), then just sat for a while with a tiny cup of gahwa and some dates. The air smelled like sweet smoke from shisha pipes and grilled meat starting to cook for dinner. Sunset crept up fast — suddenly everything was gold and pink and everyone started taking photos at once. I still think about that sky.

The evening part surprised me most. We watched the Al Ayala welcome dance (lots of drums and those long canes), then a guy spun so fast in his Tanura skirt I got dizzy just watching him. There was belly dancing too — honestly, way harder than it looks. Ahmed teased me into trying on an Arabic robe for a photo; my friend got a henna tattoo that lasted for days after. The buffet dinner was massive: grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, salads — even veggie stuff for my partner who doesn’t eat meat. I never figured out how to smoke shisha properly but no one seemed to care.

It’s funny how quickly you forget about city noise out there under those stars, eating barbecue with strangers who feel oddly familiar by the end of it all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening desert safari with activities

• Pick up from hotel
• Drive to desert outskirts
• Dune bashing ride in 4x4
• Arrive at desert campsite
• Enjoy camel riding (optional)
• Try henna tattoo designing
• Smoke flavored shisha
• Drink traditional Arabic coffee
• Watch Al Ayala welcome dance
• Watch belly dance performance
• Watch Tanoura dance show
• Watch fireshow performance
• Dress up in Arabic costume
• Take sunset desert photographs
• Enjoy BBQ buffet dinner

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, pickup from your home or hotel in Dubai is included in the tour.

How long does the dune bashing last?

The dune bashing ride lasts about 15-20 minutes as part of your desert safari experience.

Are vegetarian options available at dinner?

Yes, the buffet barbecue dinner includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Can I ride a camel during this tour?

Camel riding is available on request for an additional charge at the desert campsite.

Are drinks provided during the evening?

You get unlimited refreshments—tea, coffee, water, soft drinks—and alcohol is available for an extra charge if you’re over 18.

What kind of entertainment is included?

The evening features belly dancing, Tanura show by a male artist, Al Ayala welcome dance, and a fireshow (except during Ramadan or public holidays).

Is this tour suitable for young children or pregnant travelers?

This tour isn’t recommended for infants without adult supervision or travelers who are pregnant or have back/heart problems due to dune bashing.

Can I get henna tattoos or dress up in traditional costumes?

Yes! Henna design and opportunities to dress in Arabic costumes are offered at camp for photos.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup from your Dubai hotel or home before heading out to the desert for 15-20 minutes of dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle. At camp you’ll find camel rides (on request), unlimited tea, coffee and soft drinks plus Arabic coffee with dates on arrival. Enjoy live performances like belly dance and Tanura show (except during Ramadan/public holidays), try shisha or henna tattoos if you want, dress up in Arabic costumes for photos—and finish with a big buffet barbecue dinner before returning to town.