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

Summary

Evening desert adventure with dune bashing, camel ride, fire show and BBQ dinner in Dubai

You’ll race across Dubai’s red dunes in a 4x4 with an expert driver before unwinding at a Bedouin camp for camel rides, henna painting, and a BBQ buffet dinner. Enjoy live shows like Tanura dance and fire performances as night falls. Expect laughter, new tastes, and little surprises — it’s less polished than you might imagine but all the better for it.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the sand to feel so cool after sunset — or for my heart to thump that hard when our 4x4 lurched over those red Lahbab dunes. Our guide Khalid grinned in the rearview mirror before gunning it up another slope (my friend shrieked, I just grabbed the seat). The wind outside was dry but not harsh, and sometimes you’d catch this faint scent of cardamom from someone’s thermos. There’s a moment when you stop on top of a dune and it’s just… quiet. Orange light everywhere. I still think about that view.

We piled out for sand boarding — I fell twice but honestly, who cares? The laughter kind of echoed across the empty space. Later at the Bedouin camp, a woman painted a henna flower on my wrist while her daughter giggled at my attempts to say “shukran.” There were camels lined up near the entrance; their fur was rougher than I thought, and one kept nudging my elbow like he wanted more snacks. The air smelled like grilled meat and sweet smoke from shisha pipes.

The live shows started after dark — first this whirling Tanura dancer with skirts that flashed neon colors, then a fire performer who spun flames so close I could feel the heat on my face. The belly dancer winked at a kid in our group who tried (badly) to copy her moves. Food was everywhere: smoky kebabs, spicy rice, crunchy salads. We sat on low cushions and drank tea while people drifted between tables or lined up for photos with a falcon. It was noisy but in that good way where everyone’s just relaxed.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and evening entertainment

• Pickup from residence by 4x4 vehicle
• Drive over desert dunes
• Enjoy dune bashing and sand boarding
• Experience buggy biking adventure
• Arrive at Bedouin camp
• Take camel ride and henna painting
• Have welcome drinks and refreshments
• Enjoy BBQ buffet dinner
• Watch live shows including belly dance and fire show

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 the desert safari?

Yes, hotel transfers in a shared 4x4 vehicle are included in your booking.

What activities are included during the tour?

You’ll do dune bashing, sand boarding, camel rides, henna painting, quad biking (optional), falcon photography, horse riding, and enjoy live shows.

Are meals provided on this Dubai desert safari?

A BBQ buffet dinner is included with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options plus snacks and unlimited refreshments.

Are there live performances during the evening?

Yes—there are several live shows including belly dancing, Tanura dance show, and fire performance.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?

The tour is suitable for families but not recommended for infants or travelers with certain health conditions.

Are separate washrooms available at the camp?

Yes—there are separate male and female washrooms at the Bedouin camp.

Can I try traditional costumes during the tour?

Yes—a traditional costume room is available at the camp for guests who want to dress up for photos.

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel pickup by shared 4x4 vehicle from your accommodation in Dubai followed by dune bashing over Lahbab’s high red dunes with an expert guide. At camp you’ll find camel rides waiting along with sand boarding sessions and henna painting. A BBQ buffet dinner (vegetarian and non-vegetarian options) is served alongside unlimited refreshments like tea and coffee. Enjoy five live entertainment shows including belly dance, Tanura dance, fire show plus time for shisha or bubbly if you want it—then head back to your hotel after dark.