Dubai Red Dune Desert Safari: 4x4, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner

Evening Red Sand Safari with Live Shows & Arabian BBQ

You’ll swap city noise for rolling red dunes on this Dubai desert safari—think wild 4x4 rides, camel trekking at sunset, smoky BBQ dinners under open sky, plus live dance shows that really pull you into local culture.

Step-by-step itinerary

Desert Safari and Evening Entertainment

• 4x4 ride through Red Arabian Desert
• Camel ride at Desert Camp
• Enjoy Arabian coffee and dates
• Henna painting
• Buffet dinner with traditional BBQ
• Live entertainment: belly dance, tanura dance, fire show

The Experience

The city faded behind us as our driver steered the 4x4 straight into the open desert. I could feel the sand shifting under the tires—sometimes it felt like we were floating, other times my stomach dropped as we crested another dune. The late afternoon sun made everything glow red-orange, and honestly, I had to squint even behind my sunglasses. Our guide, Khalid, pointed out how the wind shapes these dunes differently every week. He laughed when I asked if he ever gets bored of this view—“Never,” he said.

When we finally stopped at the camp, it was quieter than I expected—just the soft sound of someone pouring tea nearby and a few camels shuffling their feet. I tried riding one for a bit (awkward at first!), then sat on those low cushions with a tiny cup of Arabic coffee and some sticky dates. The smell of grilled meat drifted over from the BBQ area while henna artists painted quick designs on hands and arms. Later, as dusk settled in, music started up and dancers took over: swirling skirts, fire tricks that made everyone gasp, and belly dancing that got a few folks up from their seats. It felt like time slowed down out there—just sand, stars, and laughter echoing across the camp.

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel pick-up in a 4x4 vehicle, about half an hour of dune bashing through Dubai’s red sands, camel rides at camp, sandboarding if you’re feeling brave, unlimited water and soft drinks (plus Arabic coffee and dates), henna painting for anyone who wants it, shisha (hukka), a big buffet BBQ dinner with plenty of options—and live entertainment with belly dance shows, Tanura spinning dancers, and fire performances.

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Navita tours

Traveler reviews

4.98★★★★★★★★★★

95 verified traveler reviews

5 ★93

4 ★2

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Is this desert safari suitable for kids?

Yes! Kids love the dune bashing and camel rides. Just note infants need to sit on an adult’s lap during drives.

What should I wear for this tour?

Light clothes work best—sandals or sneakers are fine. Bring a light jacket; evenings can get breezy out in the desert.

Are vegetarian options available at dinner?

Yes, there’s always a mix of salads, rice dishes, and grilled veggies alongside the BBQ meats.

Will someone pick me up from my hotel?

Absolutely—pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or residence is included in your booking.