Dubai Red Dune Safari: BBQ, Shows & Pickup Included

Summary

Red sand dunes, BBQ dinner, live shows and desert laughter

You’ll feel your heart race on Dubai’s red dunes with dune bashing and sandboarding before relaxing at camp with a BBQ dinner and live shows under desert skies. Try a camel ride or get a henna tattoo while soaking up local stories—plus hotel pickup means you don’t have to worry about logistics. It’s an evening that lingers long after you brush off the last grains of sand.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember how quiet the city felt that afternoon, right before our driver pulled up outside the hotel in Dubai. I’d been looking forward to this red dune safari but didn’t expect the air to shift so quickly—one minute you’re in traffic, next you’re out where everything is just sand and sky. Our guide, Khalid, had this easy way about him. He joked about “desert rollercoasters” as we buckled into the 4x4. I gripped the door a little tighter than I’d admit when we first hit those Lahbab dunes—red dust everywhere, sun catching on every ripple. You could smell warm sand and something faintly sweet in the air (dates maybe?).

Dune bashing was wilder than I thought—my stomach dropped more than once. There was a moment when Khalid stopped at the top of a slope so we could take it all in; he pointed out distant camel tracks and told us how his grandfather used to cross these parts by night. I tried sandboarding after that (not gracefully), and Li laughed so hard she nearly dropped her phone trying to film me sliding sideways down the hill. The quad bikes looked tempting but honestly, my legs were still jelly from the ride.

We rolled up to camp just as the light started turning gold. It smelled like charcoal and spices—someone was already grilling for the BBQ dinner. The place felt lively but not crowded: kids getting henna tattoos, people lining up for shisha or trying on those bright Arabic costumes for photos. I ended up with a falcon perched awkwardly on my arm (the handler winked at me—he knew I was nervous). Later there were live shows—music and dancing under this huge sky that felt bigger than any ceiling back home. The food was way better than I expected; even veggie options had real flavor. There’s something about eating outside after a day like that—it just hits different.

The drive back was quiet except for soft music from Khalid’s radio and someone snoring in the backseat (not naming names). My shoes were full of sand and my head was full of colors from that sunset over the red dunes—I keep thinking about it now and then, especially when city life gets too loud.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert safari with dune bashing and BBQ

• Pickup from hotel
• Drive to Lehbab Red Arabian Desert
• Dune bashing and sandboarding
• Proceed to desert camp
• Camel ride and BBQ dinner
• Enjoy live shows at camp

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Dubai red dune safari?

Yes, pickup is included from hotels or residences in Dubai and Sharjah.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available at the BBQ dinner?

Yes, both vegetarian and vegan dishes are available during dinner at camp.

Can children join the red dune safari?

Children can join but dune bashing isn’t recommended for kids under 3 years old.

Is quad biking included in this tour?

No, quad biking is not included but can be booked on-site for an extra charge.

What should I wear for a desert safari near Dubai?

Wear comfortable clothes, sandals or sneakers, and bring a light jacket if it’s winter.

Are there live entertainment shows during Ramadan?

No, there are no live shows or alcohol served during Ramadan period.

Is this tour suitable for people with spinal injuries or motion sickness?

No, it’s not recommended due to rough dune driving conditions.

How long does it take to reach Lahbab Red Desert from Dubai?

The drive usually takes around 45 minutes depending on traffic and pickup location.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from anywhere in Dubai or Sharjah, all transfers by 4WD vehicle, guided red dune bashing at Lahbab Desert, sandboarding experience, camel ride opportunities, sunset photography stops (with optional falcon photo), unlimited soft drinks and water at camp plus fresh fruits, henna tattoos for ladies, shisha corner access, Arabic costume dress-up for photos, dedicated table at camp facilities, live entertainment shows (except during Ramadan), and an international buffet BBQ dinner with vegetarian options before drop-off back at your accommodation.