Dubai Desert Safari: Quad Biking, BBQ Dinner & Premium Camp

Summary

Red dunes, quad bikes and fire-lit nights in Dubai’s desert

You’ll race across Dubai’s red dunes on quad bikes before trying sandboarding and snapping photos with a falcon as sunset colors spill across Lahbab Desert. At camp, relax in private cabanas, taste smoky BBQ dishes from live stations, enjoy henna art or shisha, then watch fire shows and dance performances under lantern light. It’s an evening that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Fingers sticky from dates, I watched our guide—Sami—pour tiny cups of cardamom coffee with this quiet care that made me slow down too. We’d just tumbled out of the 4x4 at Lahbab Desert, still grinning from dune bashing (my stomach did flips on those red slopes). The sand here isn’t just sand—it’s warm, almost soft under your shoes, and somehow it gets everywhere. Sami handed us helmets for the quad bikes and just winked, like he knew we’d be nervous but would love it anyway. He was right. I still hear the engine’s growl and feel that first rush as we zipped over the dunes—wind full of dry heat and something sweet I couldn’t place.

I tried sandboarding next (not gracefully), while two kids cheered me on—one of them even showed me how to balance better by waving his arms like a bird. There was this weird silence between rides, just wind and distant laughter from another group. Someone handed me a falcon for a photo; its feathers felt cooler than I expected, almost silky. We stopped for pictures at the top of a dune—sunset bleeding pink into gold—and I caught myself thinking how unreal it all looked. So yeah, if you’re searching for a “desert safari Dubai” or plotting a day trip out here, don’t skip that moment at the crest.

The camp itself surprised me—a mix of low lanterns, private cabanas with cushions you sink into, and the smell of charcoal drifting from the BBQ buffet. Henna artists waved us over; my attempt at small talk in Arabic got a big laugh (I deserved it). The food? Spiced lamb skewers, smoky eggplant dips—I lost track after my second plate. Later came shisha in this quiet corner while Tanoura dancers spun so fast their skirts blurred into color wheels. A belly dancer winked at someone up front; then fire performers lit up the night so close I could feel the heat on my face.

I didn’t expect to feel so welcome—or so full—but there’s something about sharing tea under stars with strangers that sticks with you longer than any souvenir photo. The ride back was quiet except for someone humming softly behind me. Sometimes travel is just about letting go and seeing where the sand takes you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and luxury camp evening

• Pick up from Dubai location
• Arrive at Lahbab Desert buggy station
• Ride quad bike for 30 minutes
• Experience dune bashing in 4x4 vehicle
• Stop for desert photo opportunities
• Try sandboarding on dunes
• Arrive at Premium Desert Camp
• Enjoy Arabic coffee, dates, and sweets
• Dine on BBQ buffet with live cooking
• Get henna painting and relax in shisha lounge
• Watch Tanoura, belly dance, and fire shows
• Participate in private photo sessions
• Return transfer to Dubai location

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from hotels or residences in Dubai and Sharjah.

How long is the quad biking session?

You get 30 minutes of self-drive quad biking in a designated area of Lahbab Desert.

What type of food is served at the desert camp?

A BBQ buffet dinner is served with international and Middle Eastern dishes plus live cooking stations.

Are there live performances during dinner?

Yes, you’ll see Tanoura dance, belly dancing shows, and a fire performance at camp.

Can children join this desert safari tour?

Yes, children can join but infants must sit on an adult’s lap; specialized infant seats are available.

Is sandboarding included in the experience?

Yes, free sandboarding is offered as part of your time on the dunes.

Are private amenities available at the camp?

The premium camp includes private cabanas and upgraded amenities for extra comfort.

What should I wear for quad biking in Lahbab Desert?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting sandy; closed shoes are recommended for quad biking.

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel or residence pickup by 4x4 Land Cruiser from anywhere in Dubai or Sharjah; 30 minutes of self-drive quad biking; guided dune bashing on Lahbab’s red sands; free sandboarding; camel ride experience; henna painting; falcon photo opportunity; access to premium desert camp with private cabanas; unlimited tea, coffee and water; BBQ buffet dinner with international and Middle Eastern options; shisha lounge access; live Tanoura dance show, belly dancing show and fire performance before return drop-off to your location.