Dubai Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Evening desert adventure with dune rides, camel trek, shows & dinner

You’ll swap city lights for golden dunes on this Dubai desert safari with dune bashing, sandboarding and a short camel ride before unwinding at a camp with live dance shows and a BBQ buffet dinner. Expect laughter, new tastes and those rare moments of desert quiet that linger long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

“You want to try?” our driver grinned as he pointed at the line of quad bikes just outside Dubai. I hesitated (I’m not exactly an off-road type), but my friend was already bargaining with the owner — in Arabic, which got him a thumbs-up. The air smelled like warm sand and petrol. We didn’t go for the bikes in the end, but it set the mood: everyone out here seemed up for a laugh or a little risk.

The 4x4 dune bashing was louder than I expected — tires squealing over ridges, everyone sliding into each other on the seats. Our guide, Amir, kept checking if we were okay (“Too much?” he joked). I tried sandboarding after that; mostly fell on my backside but the sand was surprisingly cool under my hands. The light changed fast — one minute harsh yellow, then suddenly everything went soft and gold. You don’t really get silence until you’re out there. Even the camels looked bored by us city people wobbling around on their backs.

By sunset we reached this camp where they handed out tiny cups of gahwa (Arabic coffee) and dates — tasted earthy and sweet at once. There were henna artists swirling designs onto hands (I smudged mine almost immediately), and later, dancers spinning so fast their skirts blurred. The fire show made everyone gasp; sparks flying into the dark while someone nearby tried shisha for the first time and coughed so hard even the locals laughed. The BBQ buffet was better than I’d expected — smoky lamb, flatbreads warm from the grill, salads with mint I still remember.

I didn’t expect to feel so far from Dubai after just an hour’s drive — or to notice how quiet it gets between all that music and laughter. Sometimes you catch yourself looking up at stars you never see back in town. That’s what stuck with me most, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and cultural experience

• Hire quad bikes and buggies
• Enjoy dune bashing in 4x4
• Try sandboarding on dunes
• Take a short camel ride
• Watch Tanoura dance show
• Watch fire performance
• Watch belly dancing
• Get henna painting
• Smoke shisha at campsite
• Enjoy BBQ buffet dinner
• Drink unlimited soft drinks and tea
• Welcome with dates and Arabic coffee

Top questions

How long does the Dubai desert safari last?

The experience typically takes half a day including pickup from your location in Dubai and return after dinner.

Is hotel pickup included for this desert safari?

Yes, 4x4 pickup and drop-off from your location in Dubai is included.

What activities are included in this Dubai desert safari?

Dune bashing, sandboarding, a short camel ride, live dance shows (Tanoura, belly dancing), fire show, henna painting, shisha smoking at camp and BBQ buffet dinner are included.

Are vegetarian options available at the BBQ buffet dinner?

Yes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes are served at the BBQ buffet dinner.

Can children join this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, but infants must sit on an adult's lap; specialized infant seats are available upon request.

Is quad biking included in the price?

No, quad bikes can be hired directly at the site for an extra charge if you wish.

What kind of live entertainment is there?

The camp features Tanoura dance (spinning), belly dancing and a fire show during dinner time.

Is public transportation available to reach the meeting point?

Public transport options are nearby but hotel pickup is provided as part of your booking.

What’s included

Your evening includes 4x4 pickup from your location in Dubai plus all main activities: dune bashing across golden sands, sandboarding down steep slopes if you’re brave enough (I tried!), a short camel ride for that classic photo op before heading to camp for unlimited soft drinks or tea while watching live dance performances. There’s also henna painting if you want it—and finally a big BBQ buffet dinner with both veg and non-veg choices before heading back under those wide desert skies.