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

Summary

Evening desert safari in Dubai with dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding and live shows

You’ll feel every bump and burst of laughter on this Dubai desert safari: from dune bashing across red sands to gliding down slopes on a board, riding camels at sunset, then relaxing at camp with live shows and a smoky BBQ dinner under lantern light.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a cup of sweet tea just as the sun starts dipping behind the dunes. I can still taste that hint of cardamom — or maybe it was just the desert air mixing in. Our driver, Ahmed, had picked us up from our hotel in Dubai right on time (he actually texted us when he was outside), and not even twenty minutes later we were out where the city just sort of disappears. It’s quiet out there. Except for the sound of tires letting out air before dune bashing — apparently that’s important for grip. I didn’t expect to laugh so much bouncing over those red sand hills; my friend shrieked every time we tilted sideways and Ahmed just grinned in the rearview mirror.

After that wild ride (my heart was still thumping), we tried sandboarding. I fell off twice but honestly, sliding down warm sand is less scary than snow. The camels were waiting nearby — their noses twitching at us like they’d seen this routine a thousand times. Sitting up high on one felt strangely calming after all that adrenaline. There’s a moment when you can see nothing but waves of sand and it’s so quiet except for little wind gusts brushing your ears. If you do this desert safari Dubai thing, try closing your eyes for a second up there — it sticks with you.

The camp was already buzzing when we got there — lanterns swinging a bit in the breeze, cooks fanning smoke from the BBQ (the smell made me instantly hungry). Henna artists waved us over; my attempt at Arabic script looked more like spaghetti but she laughed and fixed it. The evening rolled on with belly dancing, fire twirling (seriously impressive), and something called Tanura dance where the guy spun so long I got dizzy just watching. We loaded plates with grilled chicken and veggie stuff — even my picky friend found plenty to eat. I’m still thinking about how everyone clapped along during the last dance; even Ahmed joined in for a minute before rounding us up for the drive back to Dubai.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert Safari and Evening Entertainment

• Driver picks up guests
• Dune bashing in red sand dunes
• Sandboarding activity
• Camel ride experience
• Arrive at campsite
• Enjoy live entertainment shows
• Participate in henna painting and costume photos
• Dine with BBQ and unlimited tea and coffee
• Driver drops guests at pickup location

Top questions

How long does the Dubai desert safari last?

The experience lasts until around 9:30 pm, starting after afternoon pickup from your location in Dubai.

Is hotel pickup included in this desert safari?

Yes, pickup from your location is included as part of this tour.

What activities are included on the Dubai desert safari?

Dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, live entertainment shows (belly dance, fire show, Tanura dance), henna painting and Arabic costume photos are all included.

Is food provided during the evening desert safari?

Yes, an international BBQ buffet dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options is served at camp.

Are drinks included on this tour?

Unlimited tea and coffee are available during your time at camp.

Can children join this Dubai desert safari?

Infants and small children can join using prams or strollers; specialized infant seats are also available.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the nature of dune bashing.

Are there public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near pickup points in Dubai.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup from your location in Dubai by air-conditioned vehicle, 30 minutes of dune bashing across red sand dunes with a local guide driving, followed by sandboarding and a gentle camel ride. At camp you’ll enjoy live entertainment like belly dancing, fire shows and Tanura dance while sampling an international BBQ buffet dinner (with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices). Unlimited tea and coffee flow throughout the night alongside henna painting for women and chances to snap photos in Arabic costumes before drop-off back at your hotel around 9:30 pm.