Dubai Desert Safari: Private Camel Ride, Sandboard & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Private red dune safari in Dubai with camel ride, sandboarding and BBQ

You’ll ride over Dubai’s red dunes in a private 4x4 with your local guide, try sandboarding, sway along on a camel at sunset and taste smoky barbecue under desert stars. Between henna tattoos and falcon photos, you’ll catch small moments that linger long after—like laughter echoing across empty sands or warm bread in your hands.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the sand to feel so cool under my hands — honestly, I thought it’d be burning. We’d just tumbled out of the 4x4 after our guide, Ahmed, had us laughing and gripping the seats through the Lahbab dunes. He joked that he’s been driving these routes since before I was born (probably true). The wind kicked up little swirls of red dust that somehow got everywhere — I’m still finding it in my shoes.

The camel ride was quieter than I thought it’d be. Our group went single file, swaying gently while the sun started dropping behind the dunes. I tried to say “thank you” in Arabic to the camel handler — he smiled politely but I’m sure my pronunciation was a mess. At one point, a falconer let me hold his bird for a photo; its feathers were softer than I expected and it stared right through me. The henna artist drew a flower on my wrist while we waited for dinner — she worked so quickly, her hands barely pausing.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from a “buffet BBQ” in the middle of nowhere, but honestly? The smell of grilled lamb and spices made everyone hungry fast. There were vegetarian dishes too (my friend was relieved), and endless sweet tea poured into tiny glasses. Later there were live shows — music I didn’t recognize but felt somehow familiar under the stars. It got chilly after dark; someone handed out shawls and we all huddled closer around our plates. The drive back was quiet except for Ahmed humming along to something on the radio. That last glimpse of glowing sand stuck with me — kind of peaceful, actually.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert safari with activities and dinner

• Pickup from hotel in Dubai or Sharjah
• Red Dune Safari drive for 40 minutes
• Sandboarding on desert dunes
• Enjoy sunset views in Lahbab desert
• Traditional camel ride in Aweer desert
• Get a henna tattoo applied
• Watch three live Arabic music shows
• Dinner and BBQ with unlimited drinks

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, hotel or residence pickup and drop-off in Dubai or Sharjah is included.

How long does the dune bashing last?

Dune bashing lasts around 40-45 minutes during the tour.

Are vegetarian options available at dinner?

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

Can children join this private desert safari?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

What activities are included besides dune bashing?

You’ll get to try sandboarding, camel riding, henna tattoos, watch live entertainment shows with Arabic music, and take photos with a falcon.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

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

Does this safari include drinks?

Yes, unlimited soft drinks, tea, coffee and water are provided during dinner.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from your hotel or residence in Dubai or Sharjah by air-conditioned 4x4 Land Cruiser, guided dune bashing through Lahbab’s red sands for about 45 minutes, sandboarding at sunset, a traditional camel ride with photo opportunities (even holding a falcon if you want), henna tattoo art while you relax at camp, an international buffet dinner with barbecue (vegetarian options too), unlimited soft drinks plus tea and coffee throughout the evening—and finally drop-off back at your place when it’s all done.