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

Summary

Red dunes, smoky barbecue, laughter and fire shows in Dubai’s desert

You’ll feel your heart race on Dubai’s red dunes before sharing Arabic coffee at sunset, riding camels at camp, and tasting smoky barbecue under desert stars. Watch live belly dance and fire shows—all with hotel pickup included—then carry home that sandy silence and laughter long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We tumbled out of the 4x4 just as the late afternoon sun made the sand look almost pink. Our driver—Ali, I think—grinned as he let some air out of the tires. “Ready?” he asked. I thought I was, but dune bashing is something else; you can’t really prepare for that first drop. Sand flew up against the windows and everyone in our car whooped or grabbed onto whatever they could (my friend lost her scarf to the back seat). The Hajjar Mountains looked hazy in the distance. It’s loud inside the car but outside there’s this dry quiet—except for the wind when you step out at the top of a dune.

Ali pointed out where to get that classic photo with endless red dunes behind you. I tried to look casual but mostly just squinted into the sun. The light changes so fast here—it was golden one minute and then suddenly dusk crept in. At camp, we got a sweet date and strong Arabic coffee right away; honestly, that coffee hit harder than expected. There were camels waiting for quick rides (they’re taller than they look), and a woman doing henna tattoos with a steady hand even as kids darted around her table.

Later on, smoke drifted from the barbecue grills while people found spots on low cushions under these patterned tents. The buffet had more options than I thought—grilled chicken, salads, something with chickpeas I still can’t pronounce—and it all tasted better after an hour in the sand. Live music started up and then came belly dancing, which got everyone clapping along. There was this fire show too; for a second it felt like time slowed down watching those flames spin against the night sky. On the way back to Dubai it was mostly quiet in our car except for someone quietly humming one of those songs from earlier—I guess we were all a bit sun-dazed.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening desert safari with dinner and shows

• Depart hotel around 3 pm
• Drive to Hajjar Mountains red dunes
• Enjoy dune bashing adventure
• Watch dusk and take photos
• Arrive at Bedouin-style desert camp
• Experience henna painting and camel rides
• Enjoy BBQ dinner buffet
• Watch live belly dance entertainment

Top questions

What time does the Dubai desert safari start?

The tour starts around 3 pm with pickup from your hotel or residence in Dubai.

Is dune bashing included in this desert safari?

Yes, professional drivers take you dune bashing on Dubai’s high red dunes during the tour.

Are meals provided during the safari?

An international BBQ dinner buffet with vegetarian options is included at the desert camp.

Do I need to arrange my own transport?

No, pickup and drop-off by 4x4 vehicle are included from your hotel or residence in Dubai.

What activities are offered at the desert camp?

You can enjoy camel rides, henna art, Tanoura dance, belly dance and fire shows at camp.

Is this tour suitable for children?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for infants or pregnant travelers.

Are drinks included during dinner?

Unlimited mineral water is provided along with Arabic coffee and dates upon arrival at camp.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off by 4x4 vehicle from your hotel or residence in Dubai, an exhilarating session of dune bashing led by a professional driver across red sand dunes near Hajjar Mountains, short camel rides at camp, henna art for those who want it, photo stops at sunset, welcome Arabic sweets with coffee and dates, unlimited mineral water throughout your stay, an international BBQ dinner buffet with vegetarian options—and live Tanoura dance, belly dance and fire performances before heading back to town.