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

Summary

Evening desert safari in Dubai with dinner shows and sand adventures

You’ll ride across golden dunes outside Dubai by 4x4 Land Cruiser with an expert guide, try dune bashing and sandboarding if you’re brave enough, then slow down with a camel ride before enjoying a BBQ buffet dinner under desert stars. Live shows and small moments — like Arabic coffee or henna painting — make this evening desert safari feel personal.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the pickup for our Dubai desert safari because I couldn’t find my sunglasses (of course). The driver, Ahmed, just grinned when I rushed out — “No worries, we’re on desert time now.” It was that kind of easy-going vibe all evening. The city faded behind us and suddenly it was just endless sand and this weirdly comforting silence, except for the hum of the Land Cruiser’s AC and someone’s quiet playlist up front. I kept thinking how different the air felt out there — drier, but not harsh. There’s this faint scent of warm spice from the sand that stuck to my hands after I tried (and failed) to help deflate the tires before dune bashing.

Dune bashing is… well, it’s not for anyone who gets carsick easily. Ahmed drove like he’d been born on those dunes — laughing as we slid sideways down a slope that looked vertical from inside the car. My friend shrieked, then started laughing too. Afterward, we stopped for photos at sunset; I thought it’d be cheesy but honestly? The light really does turn gold out there. I tried sandboarding but mostly fell over (the board feels way slicker than snow), and some kids nearby were much better at it than me. The camel ride was slower — honestly a relief after all that bouncing around. Our guide told us camels are called “ships of the desert,” and I get why now; they move with this slow rhythm that makes you feel like you could drift forever if you let yourself.

At camp, things got lively fast. We were welcomed with dates and tiny cups of Arabic coffee — bitter but somehow perfect after all that dust. There was henna painting (I got a lopsided flower on my hand), shisha smoke curling up under string lights, and music starting up as people found their seats for dinner. The BBQ buffet had grilled chicken that tasted smoky-sweet; I still think about those flatbreads fresh off the fire. The Tanoura dancer spun so long I got dizzy just watching him, and during the fire show someone’s toddler tried to copy the moves with a glow stick — pretty sure nobody minded.

I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed in such a busy place — maybe it’s something about being out under all those stars after living in city light for weeks. On the drive back to Dubai, Ahmed asked if we’d come again next year. Maybe I will; there’s something quietly addictive about that much open space.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dubai Desert Safari Adventure

• Hotel pickup in 4x4 Land Cruiser
• Drive to Arabian Desert
• Relax and freshen up at desert stop
• Optional quad biking or dune buggy ride
• Dune bashing in Land Cruiser
• Try sandboarding on dunes
• Enjoy traditional camel ride
• Arrive at desert safari camp
• Welcome with dates and Arabic coffee
• BBQ buffet dinner under stars
• Watch Tanoura, belly, and fire shows
• Experience henna painting and shisha
• Return to hotel

Top questions

Is dune bashing safe on this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, experienced drivers use well-maintained 4x4 vehicles for safety during dune bashing.

Can I skip dune bashing if I don’t want to do it?

Yes, just let them know in advance so you can wait at a meeting point before joining the group later.

What should I wear for a Dubai desert safari?

Comfortable clothes and sandals or sneakers are best; bring a light jacket in winter months.

Is food included during the evening safari?

Yes, there’s a BBQ buffet dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options at camp.

Are children allowed on this Dubai desert safari tour?

Yes, children can join but infants under 3 can’t do dune bashing for safety reasons.

What kind of entertainment is offered at camp?

Belly dancing, Tanoura dance show, fire show (except during Ramadan or dry days).

Do they offer hotel pickup and drop-off?

Yes, private hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle are included.

What’s included

Your evening includes private hotel pickup by English-speaking guide in a 4x4 Land Cruiser, short camel ride (with longer treks available), optional quad biking or buggy rides (extra charge), dune bashing with sandboarding stop if you want it, unlimited refreshments at camp plus Arabic coffee and dates on arrival, traditional henna painting for women, shisha lounge access, live entertainment shows like belly dance and fire show (seasonal), plus a full BBQ buffet dinner before heading back to your hotel late evening.