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

Summary

Dubai desert adventure with dune bashing, camel ride, BBQ dinner and live shows

You’ll chase adrenaline across Dubai’s red dunes with dune bashing and sandboarding before unwinding at a lively camp with camel rides, henna painting, and a BBQ buffet dinner under desert stars. Live dance shows bring everyone together—and there’s always time for laughter or a quiet moment watching sunset colors fade.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I remember is our driver, Imran, grinning as he handed me a tiny cup of cardamom coffee at pickup—he said it’d help with the “rollercoaster” ahead. I didn’t totally believe him until we hit those red sand dunes outside Dubai. The 4x4 felt like it was floating and then dropping, my stomach somewhere behind us. My sister shrieked (she’ll deny it), but honestly, I loved that weird mix of adrenaline and the silence when we stopped on a hilltop. The air smelled dry and warm—almost sweet?—and the light was gold on everything.

I tried sandboarding next; pretty sure I ate more sand than I glided. Some local kids nearby laughed and gave me a thumbs up anyway. Our guide pointed out the best spot for sunset photos—it’s wild how fast that orange sun sinks behind the dunes. There were camels waiting at the camp too; their eyelashes are ridiculously long up close. Riding one felt awkward at first but kind of peaceful once you settle in (they’re surprisingly gentle).

The camp itself buzzed with music and chatter. We found seats near the stage (Imran waved us over) just as dancers started spinning—Tanura first, then belly dancing, then this fire show that made everyone gasp. The smell of charcoal drifted over from the BBQ buffet; I piled my plate high with grilled chicken and something spicy I still can’t name. Someone offered to paint henna on my hand (the design lasted days). My mom tried on an abaya for photos—she looked regal but kept giggling.

It’s funny what sticks: the crunch of sand in my shoes even after we left, or how quiet it felt under all those stars before heading back to Dubai. If you’re looking for a desert safari in Dubai that’s got both thrill and those little human moments…well, this was ours.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and evening entertainment

• Enjoy quad bike or dune buggy ride
• Take photos of Arabian desert scenery
• Experience 30-minute dune bashing
• Try sandboarding and watch sunset
• Ride camel at desert camp
• Watch live Tanura, belly dance, fire shows
• Have BBQ buffet dinner
• Take photos in Arabic costumes
• Get henna painting for ladies
• Enjoy unlimited soft drinks

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, hotel or home pickup and drop-off by 4x4 vehicle are included.

What activities are part of the desert safari?

Dune bashing, sandboarding, short camel riding, live dance shows, henna painting for women and kids, BBQ buffet dinner.

Are vegetarian options available at dinner?

Yes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are offered at the international BBQ buffet dinner.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome and infant seats are available.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes—all areas and transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

How long does dune bashing last?

Dune bashing lasts around 30 minutes during the tour.

Are quad bikes or dune buggies included?

No—they’re available as an optional extra for an additional fee.

What kind of live entertainment is there?

The camp features Tanura dance show, belly dancing shows, fire show (twice), Arabic traditional dance show.

What’s included

Your day includes door-to-door pickup by 4x4 from your hotel or home in Dubai, about half an hour of dune bashing plus time for sandboarding at sunset viewpoints, short camel riding at camp with chances to try Arabic costumes for photos or get henna tattoos (especially fun for women and kids), unlimited soft drinks plus tea and coffee throughout your stay, several live performances from Tanura to belly dance to fire shows—and a full international BBQ buffet dinner with plenty of choices before heading back in comfort.