Dubai Red Dunes: Desert Safari, Quad Biking & Al Khayma BBQ

Summary

Red dunes, quad bikes, camels and smoky barbecue in Dubai’s desert

You’ll ride across Dubai’s red dunes by 4x4 and quad bike, try sandboarding (or just laugh at yourself trying), meet camels at Al Khayma camp, and end with a smoky BBQ dinner under open sky. It’s not just adventure — it’s those small moments you’ll keep replaying long after you’re back in your hotel room.

What’s the experience like?

“Hold on tight!” That’s what our driver, Farid, said right before the 4x4 shot up the first dune outside Dubai. I could feel my stomach drop — not in a bad way, just that weird thrill you get when you’re somewhere totally new. The city faded behind us after about 45 minutes, replaced by this endless orange sand that looked almost fake under the sun. I kept brushing sand off my shoes (should’ve worn sneakers), but honestly, I didn’t care much once we stopped for quad biking. The engine buzzed through my hands and the wind tasted like dust and something sweet — maybe dates? Hard to tell with all that adrenaline.

After the quad bikes, we piled back into the Land Cruiser for dune bashing. Farid laughed when I yelped at a sharp turn — apparently he’s been doing this for years and “no one’s ever gotten sick on his watch.” Not sure if that was supposed to reassure me or not. There was this moment where we paused at the top of a huge dune; everything went quiet except for someone’s scarf flapping in the wind. I tried sandboarding next (awkwardly), and got more sand in my mouth than anything else. But hey, it made everyone laugh.

Later on at Al Khayma camp, they greeted us with rose water and Arabic coffee — which smells almost floral if you really pay attention. Some local sweets too; I probably ate more than I should’ve. The camels looked bored but patient as we took turns riding them out past the tents (I still think about how soft their noses felt). Dinner was a smoky BBQ spread — grilled chicken, veggie stuff too — while dancers spun fire around like it was nothing special. My friend tried henna painting; I chickened out after seeing how ticklish she got.

The drive back to Dubai was quiet except for someone softly snoring behind me. There’s something about leaving all that space behind — you know you’ll remember it differently than any photo could show.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and camp activities

• Pick up from hotel
• Drive 45 minutes to desert
• Use restroom and relax
• Optional short Quad Bike ride
• Dune bashing for 40-45 minutes
• Sand surfing down dunes
• Camel ride in open desert
• Enjoy soft drinks and Arabic tea
• Arrive at Al Khayma camp
• Welcome with rose water and Arabic coffee
• Optional camel riding across dunes
• Participate in camel feeding and falconry
• Enjoy henna painting and shisha
• Watch entertainment shows
• Have BBQ dinner at camp
• Drop off at hotel

Top questions

How long does the Dubai red dunes desert safari last?

The standard tour lasts about 7 hours including pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Dubai.

Is quad biking included in every booking?

Quad biking is available if you select that option during booking; otherwise it's not automatically included.

What food is served at Al Khayma camp?

A BBQ dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes is served at the camp during the evening tour.

Are camel rides part of the desert safari?

Yes, short camel rides are included and can be repeated during your visit to Al Khayma camp.

Is hotel pickup included in this Dubai desert safari?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or selected location are included with shared 4x4 vehicle transport.

What should I wear for sandboarding or dune bashing?

Wear sports shoes for safe sandboarding; casual loose clothing is recommended, plus a jacket in winter months.

Can children join the dune bashing activity?

Dune bashing is not allowed for infants under 3 years old or anyone pregnant or with serious medical issues.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Unlimited water, soft drinks, Arabic tea or coffee with dates are provided throughout the experience.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel in Dubai by licensed driver, a ride out to the red dunes for quad biking (if selected), thrilling dune bashing and sandboarding sessions, short camel rides (repeatable), plus unlimited water and soft drinks along the way. At Al Khayma camp you'll be welcomed with rose water, Arabic coffee and sweets before enjoying activities like henna painting or falconry (evenings only), shisha smoking and a full BBQ dinner before returning to your hotel at night.