Dubai Lahbab Desert: Quad Biking, Sandboarding & Camel Ride

Summary

Red dunes quad biking camel rides sandboarding BBQ night

You’ll feel the thrill of quad biking over Dubai’s red dunes, ride camels as sunset colors stretch across Lahbab Desert, then try sandboarding (expect sand everywhere). At camp, enjoy Arabic coffee, henna painting, live shows, and a BBQ dinner before heading home with desert dust in your shoes and maybe a new story to tell.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the crunch of red sand under my shoes when we stepped out near Lahbab. Our driver, Ahmed, grinned and handed me a helmet — “Ready?” he asked. I could smell engine oil and something sweet on the breeze (dates maybe?). The quad bike buzzed under me, a bit jittery at first, but after a few turns I felt like I could actually steer. My friend almost tipped us over laughing when I hit a bump too fast — you really do feel every dip in those dunes.

After that rush, we swapped wheels for hooves — camels are taller than they look, by the way. The camel handler just called him “Majnoon” and winked. Sitting up there as the sun started to dip behind the dunes made everything go kind of quiet for a second. There was this orange-pink light on the sand that didn’t look real. Then came dune bashing — our guide drove like he was in some desert rally; I grabbed the seat more than once (don’t wear white if you can help it). Sandboarding was trickier than it looks on Instagram — I fell twice and got sand everywhere but managed one good slide that felt like flying for half a second.

The camp itself had this low hum from people chatting and music starting up. We were welcomed with tiny cups of Arabic coffee and sticky dates — honestly, both tasted better than I expected after all that dust. A woman painted henna on my hand while her daughter watched cartoons on her phone nearby. Later, sitting cross-legged on cushions eating smoky grilled chicken under strings of lights, I tried to copy some dance moves from the show (not well). The fire dancer’s performance left everyone wide-eyed for a minute or two.

I still think about that moment riding back to Dubai, sand stuck between my toes and hair smelling faintly of barbecue smoke. There’s something about seeing those dunes up close — not just through a window or filtered photo — that stays with you longer than you expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure with activities and dinner

• Pick-up from Dubai location
• Drive to Lahbab Desert
• 25-minute quad bike ride
• Camel ride in desert
• 35-40 minute dune bashing
• Sandboarding on dunes
• Photo stop at desert vistas
• Drive to Desert Premium Camp
• Welcome with Arabic coffee and dates
• Relax in majlis seating
• Henna painting activity
• Dress in traditional Arabic attire
• BBQ dinner under stars
• Live entertainment: belly dance, Tanoura, fire show
• Return to Dubai location

Top questions

How long is the quad bike ride in Lahbab Desert?

The quad bike ride lasts about 25 minutes over the red sand dunes.

Is hotel pickup included for this desert safari?

Yes, pickup from your Dubai hotel or residence is included in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What activities are part of this tour?

You’ll experience quad biking, camel riding, dune bashing, sandboarding, henna painting, and live entertainment at camp.

Is dinner provided during the evening desert adventure?

Yes, a BBQ dinner with vegetarian options is served at the premium desert camp.

Are there cultural experiences included?

Yes—enjoy Arabic coffee & dates on arrival plus henna painting and traditional attire for photos.

How long is dune bashing?

Dune bashing lasts around 35-40 minutes with an experienced driver.

Can children join this tour?

The tour offers specialized infant seats but may not be suitable for very young children due to physical activity levels.

What should I wear for quad biking & sandboarding?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting sandy; closed shoes are best.

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel pickup from anywhere in Dubai by air-conditioned SUV; a 25-minute quad bike ride across Lahbab’s red dunes; camel ride; dune bashing; time for sandboarding; photo stops; entry to a premium desert camp with Arabic coffee and dates; henna painting; traditional dress-up photos; BBQ dinner with vegetarian options; plus live belly dance, Tanoura dance and fire show before drop-off back at your location.