Dubai Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Live Buffet & Luxury Camp

Summary

Dubai desert safari with dune bashing sunset camel ride and dinner

You’ll feel Dubai’s desert come alive: wild dune bashing in a 4x4, sunset photos with cardamom coffee in hand, then slow down at a luxury Bedouin camp with buffet dinner and live shows. Camel rides and pickup are included—plus plenty of small moments that might surprise you.

What’s the experience like?

The day didn’t start quite as planned — our driver called to say he was running late because someone else forgot their sunglasses at the hotel. I laughed it off, honestly just glad for a few extra minutes to finish my coffee. When the 4x4 finally pulled up outside our place in Dubai, I could already see sand dust on the tires. Felt like a good sign. Our guide, Ahmed, had this easy way about him — kept joking about how “the desert always wins.” He wasn’t wrong.

I’d heard about dune bashing but didn’t expect my stomach to drop like that on the first big dip. The sand was everywhere — in my shoes, hair, probably even my teeth (don’t open your mouth when you scream). The sun was starting to slide down and everything turned gold for a minute. We stopped for photos and Ahmed handed us tiny cups of cardamom coffee. It smelled sweet and earthy; I still think about that moment sometimes — just silence except for the wind and one distant shout from another group trying sandboarding.

The camp looked almost unreal after all that bouncing around: low cushions, lanterns flickering, smoke curling up from the grills. Someone pressed dates into my hand before I even sat down. There was so much food at the buffet — grilled lamb next to spiced veggies and things I couldn’t name (Li laughed when I tried to say one in Arabic — definitely butchered it). The belly dancer spun right past our table; her bracelets jingled louder than the music for a second. Later there was fire dancing too, which felt both touristy and sort of hypnotic after all that food.

Camel riding was shorter than I expected but honestly enough for me — they’re taller than you think! On the way back to Dubai under a sky full of stars, everyone got quiet for once. You know those days where you’re not sure what you’ll remember most? This felt like one of them.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert safari with adventure and dinner

• Pickup in comfortable 4x4 vehicle
• Experience thrilling dune bashing
• Try sandboarding on dunes
• Enjoy camel ride
• Watch sunset over golden dunes
• Arrive at Bedouin-style camp
• Welcome with Arabic coffee and dates
• Dine with gourmet BBQ dinner
• Watch belly dancing and Tanoura shows
• Enjoy captivating fire performance

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, sharing base pickup and drop-off from Dubai hotels or residences is included.

What kind of dinner is served at the luxury camp?

A live buffet dinner with 32 items including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options is provided.

Are there live performances during the evening?

Yes, there are belly dancing, Tanoura show, fire show, and fireworks at the camp.

Do I get to ride a camel on this tour?

Yes, short camel riding is included for all guests at the desert camp.

Is sandboarding part of this Dubai desert safari experience?

Yes, sandboarding on the golden dunes is included in your tour.

Are drinks included during dinner?

Unlimited water, tea, coffee, and soft drinks are available throughout your visit.

Is this tour suitable for infants or pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for infants without special seats or pregnant travelers due to safety reasons.

How long does the camel ride last?

The camel ride is short—just enough for everyone to try it safely at the camp.

What’s included

Your evening includes sharing base pickup and drop-off by 4x4 from your Dubai hotel or residence, premium access to a luxurious Bedouin-style camp with comfortable seating areas, thrilling dune bashing with experienced drivers, sandboarding on golden dunes, short camel rides for every guest, unlimited water plus tea and coffee throughout your stay. A live buffet dinner offers over thirty vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes alongside traditional Emirati sweets; plus live entertainment—belly dancing shows, Tanoura performances, fire shows—and even fireworks before heading back home under starry skies.