Dubai Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, BBQ Dinner & Quad Biking

Summary

Dubai desert adventure with quad biking and BBQ dinner

You’ll feel Dubai’s desert come alive: from wild dune bashing in a 4x4 to sipping smoky Arabic coffee after sunset. Ride camels across golden dunes, try henna art, then share a BBQ dinner under open sky while live music plays nearby. It’s not just about adrenaline — you’ll catch yourself smiling at small moments you didn’t expect.

What’s the experience like?

I forgot my sunglasses in the hotel lobby — classic me — so I spent the first few minutes squinting out the Land Cruiser window as we left Dubai behind. Our driver, Khalid, noticed and just grinned, handing me his own spare pair. The city faded fast into these endless pale dunes. The air smelled dry and a little sweet, like dust and something floral I couldn’t place. I kept thinking: this is actually happening.

Dune bashing was wilder than I expected. I mean, you see it on Instagram but you don’t feel your stomach drop or hear everyone shrieking until you’re in it. Khalid seemed to love every bump — he kept pointing out tracks in the sand (“fox last night,” he said) while we clung to the seats. After that rush, everything slowed down for a bit. We stopped for Arabic coffee and dates (the coffee was almost smoky), then tried henna painting at camp. My attempt looked like a child’s drawing but the artist just smiled politely.

I’d never ridden a camel before; they’re taller than they look up close, with these long eyelashes that make them seem wise or maybe just tired of tourists. The sunset was coming on strong by then — all orange light and long shadows across the sand. Dinner was a proper feast: grilled lamb, salads with mint, those sticky sweets I can never remember the name of (Li laughed when I tried to say it in Arabic). There were live shows too — belly dancing and this spinning Tanoura dance where the guy twirled forever without getting dizzy. I still think about that moment sitting there eating with sand between my toes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dubai desert safari with dinner and activities

• Hotel pickup in Dubai
• Travel by 4x4 land cruiser
• Dune bashing in desert
• Enjoy Arabic coffee and dates
• Henna painting session
• Camel ride in dunes
• Watch live shows
• Dine on BBQ buffet dinner
• Hotel drop-off in Dubai

Top questions

How long does the Dubai desert safari last?

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included for this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from your Dubai hotel are included.

What activities are included in this Dubai desert safari?

The tour includes dune bashing, quad biking, camel riding, henna painting, live shows, and a BBQ dinner.

Are vegetarian options available during the BBQ dinner?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children can join but must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.

Are there any health restrictions for this safari?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or heart conditions.

What should I wear for a desert safari in Dubai?

Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking on sand and moving between activities.

How many people will be in each vehicle?

A maximum of 12 people per booking share each 4x4 vehicle during transfers and activities.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from your Dubai hotel by 4x4 Land Cruiser with a professional driver-guide; thrilling dune bashing; camel riding; quad biking; henna art; belly dance and Tanoura show performances; plus a full BBQ buffet dinner with Arabic sweets, coffee, dates and soft drinks before heading back to your hotel in the evening.