Dubai Red Dunes: Desert Safari, ATV, Camel Ride & BBQ

Summary

Red Dunes adventure with ATV rides camel moments live shows and BBQ

You’ll ride ATVs over Dubai’s Red Dunes, try sandboarding (and maybe tumble), meet camels face-to-face, then unwind at a Bedouin camp with live dance shows and a BBQ feast. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off so you can just let go for an evening—and maybe find yourself smiling at something small you didn’t see coming.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the sand to be so soft—almost like flour slipping through my fingers. We’d barely left Dubai behind when the city haze gave way to these wild red dunes out on Hatta Road. Our driver, Ahmed, had this easy laugh and kept pointing out little things I would’ve missed—the way the dunes change color as the sun moves, or how the wind carves patterns overnight. He handed me a headscarf at our first stop (I tried tying it myself but needed help—he just grinned and fixed it for me). The air smelled faintly sweet and dusty, and there was this low hum from other groups revving their ATVs nearby.

I’m not really an adrenaline person but dune bashing in the 4x4 was… well, I clutched the seat more than once. The kids in our group cheered every time we slid sideways down a dune. At one point we stopped right at the top—wind whipping around—and Ahmed just said “look.” The view stretched forever; I still think about that silence before everyone started taking pictures. After that came sandboarding (I fell twice), then we all tried riding camels. They’re taller than you think up close. My friend Li laughed when I tried to say thank you in Arabic—probably butchered it.

The desert camp felt almost unreal after all that sun and sand. Lanterns everywhere, soft carpets underfoot, music drifting between tents. There was henna painting (the artist’s hands moved so fast) and people lining up for photos in long robes. Dinner was this huge spread—BBQ chicken, rice, sweet dates—and someone handed me a tiny cup of spiced tea while dancers spun in circles under the lights. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed sitting there with strangers who suddenly felt familiar somehow. Maybe it was just being out there together in that weirdly peaceful dark.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert Safari with Activities and Dinner

• Pick up from your location
• Drive 1 hour to Red Desert
• 30-minute rest stop and shopping
• Self-drive ATV experience
• Dune bashing and sandboarding
• Photo stop in desert
• Drive to Bedouin camp
• Camel ride at camp
• Enjoy live entertainment shows
• Arabic vegetarian and BBQ buffet dinner
• Return drop off to your location

Top questions

How long does the Dubai desert safari last?

The full experience takes about 6-7 hours including pickup and drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included for the Red Dunes safari?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or location are included by air-conditioned 4x4 SUV.

Can I ride an ATV during the desert safari?

Yes, there is an optional self-drive ATV/quad bike ride available during a stop in the desert.

What kind of food is served at the Bedouin camp BBQ?

The buffet includes international dishes with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian BBQ options plus sweets and fresh fruit.

Are live performances part of this Dubai desert tour?

Yes, you’ll see belly dance, tanoura dancing, fire shows, and more at the camp.

Is sandboarding included on this Dubai Red Dunes trip?

Yes, sandboarding on the dunes is included as part of your activities.

Are alcoholic drinks available at dinner?

Alcoholic drinks can be purchased separately at the camp; they’re not included in the main price.

Is this tour suitable for young children or infants?

Infants can join free on laps; specialized infant seats are available upon request.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel by air-conditioned 4x4 SUV, all entry fees for activities like dune bashing and sandboarding on Dubai’s Red Dunes, an optional self-drive ATV ride if you want extra thrills, repeated camel rides if you fancy another go, henna tattoos and traditional costumes for photos at the Bedouin camp, plus a full international buffet dinner with BBQ (vegetarian options too), fresh fruit, tea or coffee—and live entertainment all evening before heading back into town.