Dubai Desert Safari: VIP Private Car, BBQ Dinner & Shows

Summary

Private Dubai safari with dune bashing, camel ride, BBQ dinner and live shows

You’ll race across golden dunes in a private car from Dubai, try camel riding and sandboarding (with plenty of laughs), then relax at your own table for a big BBQ buffet dinner under desert skies. Live shows fill the night with music and color while you sip sweet tea or try shisha — it’s an evening that feels both wild and strangely peaceful.

What’s the experience like?

We were still laughing about my failed attempt at “shukran” when our driver, Hassan, cranked up some Arabic pop and steered the Land Cruiser straight into the dunes outside Dubai. The sand was this soft gold color — not yellow, not brown — and it got everywhere (I’m probably still finding grains in my shoes). Dune bashing felt like being on a rollercoaster that didn’t care about tracks. I think I squealed at least twice. Hassan just grinned in the rearview mirror.

After that wild start, we stopped for a quick camel ride. The camels looked bored but patient — one of them made this deep rumbling sound when I patted its neck. The air had a dusty sweetness from all the shisha tents nearby. Someone handed me sweet tea in a glass so small it made my hand look giant. I tried sandboarding too but mostly ended up sliding down on my backside. Not my most graceful moment.

The sun set fast out there — suddenly everything was orange and quiet except for laughter and music drifting from the camp. Our private table had cold drinks waiting (lifesaver), and dinner was this huge spread: smoky grilled meats, salads with mint, veggie curries. There was even henna painting for anyone who wanted it; the artist had these steady hands and a shy smile. Later came the shows: swirling dancers with those bright skirts, then a fire performer who spun flames so close you could feel the heat on your face. It’s weird how quickly you forget about your phone out here.

I keep thinking about that last hour — sitting back with mint tea while the camp lights flickered and someone played oud in the background. It’s not what I pictured when I thought “desert safari Dubai”, but maybe that’s why it stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dubai Desert Safari and Evening Entertainment

• Travel in premium 4x4 vehicle
• Experience dune bashing
• Enjoy short camel ride
• Try sand boarding
• Get henna tattoo
• Watch belly dance performance
• Watch fire show
• Watch Tanoura dance
• Watch Arabic dance and music
• Relax with shisha and refreshments
• Dine at self-service BBQ buffet
• Use separate washrooms

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, private car pickup is included in your package.

What kind of food is served during the safari?

A BBQ buffet dinner is served with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options plus starters.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, unlimited water, soft drinks, tea, coffee, and juice are included.

Can children join this desert safari?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; strollers are allowed.

What activities are included besides dune bashing?

You’ll enjoy camel rides, sand boarding, henna tattoos (for ladies), shisha (hookah), and live dance shows.

Are there separate washrooms for men and women?

Yes, there are separate washrooms available at the camp.

How long does the evening last?

The experience covers late afternoon to evening hours including sunset and dinner time.

What’s included

Your evening includes private AC car pickup from Dubai, thrilling dune bashing in top vehicles like Land Cruiser or Sequoia, short camel rides, sandboarding attempts (no judgment), henna tattoos for ladies if you want one, unlimited soft drinks plus tea or coffee whenever you need it. Dinner is a self-serve BBQ buffet with both veg and non-veg dishes at your own table while you watch belly dance, Tanoura spinning shows and fire performances before heading back to town.