Dubai Desert Safari: VIP Camp, BBQ Dinner & Camel Ride

Summary

Dubai desert adventure with camel rides BBQ and sunset camp

You’ll dive into Dubai’s desert with dune bashing in a 4x4, sandboarding thrills, and a peaceful camel ride at sunset. Relax in VIP seating at a Bedouin-style camp with live BBQ dinner and traditional shows. This day trip from Dubai includes hotel pickup so you can focus on soaking up every moment under those wide desert skies.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the crunch of sand under our boots when we stepped out near those endless dunes outside Dubai. The 4x4 was still ticking from the drive — you could feel the heat just radiating off it. Our guide, Ahmed, grinned and asked if we were ready for “a little rollercoaster.” Honestly, I thought he was joking until we started dune bashing. There’s a weird mix of laughter and nervous yelps bouncing around inside the car as you slide sideways down a hill that looks way steeper than it should be. My palms were sweaty gripping the seat but I couldn’t stop grinning.

After that wild ride, everything slowed down. The air felt cooler as the sun started dipping — kind of gold and pink at the same time. We tried sandboarding (I fell twice; my partner did better), and then climbed onto camels for a slow walk through this hush that only deserts have. You hear your own breath more than anything else. Ahmed explained how Bedouins used to cross these sands by starlight — he even showed us how to tie a headscarf properly (mine kept slipping off, but he didn’t mind).

At the camp, there was this smell of charcoal and spices drifting everywhere. We sat in these low cushions — proper VIP spot apparently — while they brought out grilled lamb, salads, warm bread. The henna artist laughed when I tried to keep my hand still (I’m hopeless). Later on there were dancers spinning so fast their skirts blurred, and everyone clapped along without really knowing why. It felt easy to forget about phones or city noise for a bit — just stars overhead and people sharing food.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and evening entertainment

• Dune bashing in 4x4 vehicles
• Sandboarding on golden sands
• Camel ride through desert
• Watch sunset views
• Arrive at Bedouin-style camp
• Relax in VIP seating
• Enjoy live BBQ dinner
• Watch belly dancing and Tanoura shows

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in the Dubai desert safari?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from your location or hotel are included.

How long does the dune bashing last?

Dune bashing lasts about 30 minutes during the tour.

Are meals provided on this safari?

Yes, a live BBQ dinner is included at the camp.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, families are welcome and specialized infant seats are available.

Can pregnant travelers join this Dubai desert safari?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

What entertainment is offered at the desert camp?

The evening includes live shows such as belly dancing and Tanoura performances.

Do I need to bring anything special for sandboarding?

No special equipment is needed; sandboards are provided on site.

Are traditional costumes available to try on?

Yes, traditional Arabian costumes are available at the camp.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or location in Dubai, 30 minutes of dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, sandboarding gear provided on site, a peaceful camel ride across the sands, access to traditional Arabian costumes for photos or fun, henna tattoo art at camp, VIP seating for dinner under the stars with live BBQ and salads, plus evening entertainment with local dance performances before heading back relaxed (and probably sandy) to your hotel.