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

Summary

Dubai’s dunes, camel rides, and desert nights with fire-lit feasts

You’ll ride over Dubai’s rolling dunes in a 4WD with a local guide before arriving at an atmospheric Bedouin camp for camel rides, henna painting, and falcon encounters. Enjoy a full BBQ dinner under desert stars with live dance shows. It’s lively, sometimes messy fun — you’ll leave sandy, well-fed, and probably smiling about something unexpected.

What’s the experience like?

I thought I knew what sand felt like until our 4WD started climbing those Dubai dunes. It’s not just bumpy — it’s this weird mix of floating and sliding that made me laugh out loud (and maybe grip the seat a little too tight). Our driver, Khalid, grinned in the mirror every time someone squealed. The air smelled faintly sweet, almost like warm bread baking somewhere far off. We stopped for photos right as the sun started to dip — the light turned everything gold, even my shoes.

At Caravanserai camp, things slowed down. There was this whole welcome ritual: rose water on your hands, tiny cups of Arabic coffee that tasted smoky and strong (I probably drank too many), and dates so sticky they glued my fingers together. A local falconer let us hold his bird — I was nervous but he just nodded and said “gentle,” so I tried to look brave for the photo. The falcon’s feathers felt softer than I expected. Someone nearby was laughing in Arabic; I caught maybe three words but still felt included somehow.

I tried riding a camel for the first time — honestly awkward getting up there, but once we were moving it was oddly peaceful. The quad bikes looked fun but I chickened out last minute (next time). Henna artists painted delicate patterns on my hand while music drifted from the stage. Dinner was a blur of grilled lamb and spiced rice; I can still taste that smoky eggplant dip if I close my eyes. Later there was belly dancing and a fire show under the stars — people clapped along without really knowing why. Walking back to the car, sand in my shoes and hair, I kind of wished the night would last a bit longer.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and cultural experience

• Drive 4WD over sand dunes
• Arrive at Caravanserai Desert Camp
• Experience henna art and palm reading
• Ride a camel and meet falcon
• Shop at traditional Arabian souq
• Enjoy luxury BBQ banquet
• Watch traditional dance and fire show

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Can I try quad biking on this tour?

Yes, there is an option to try quad biking during your visit to the camp.

What kind of food is served at the Bedouin camp?

The buffet includes regional dishes like grilled meats, rice, desserts, coffee or tea.

Are there live performances during dinner?

Yes, you’ll see belly dancing, Tanura dancing, and a fire show at night.

Is this Dubai desert safari suitable for families?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

How long does the camel ride last?

The camel ride is short — just enough to experience it safely within the camp area.

Will guides speak English?

Yes, guides communicate in English throughout the experience.

Is Caravanserai camp wheelchair accessible?

Yes, wheelchair access is available at Caravanserai camp.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned 4WD vehicle for dune bashing before heading to Caravanserai Bedouin Camp. There you’ll be welcomed with Arabic coffee and dates, try camel riding or quad biking if you want (it’s optional), meet a falconer for photos, get henna art done by local artists, shop at an Arabian souk stall or two if you feel like it, then settle in for a luxury banquet buffet with international and Middle Eastern dishes while watching live entertainment under the desert sky before heading back to your hotel late evening.