Dubai Red Dunes: Desert Safari, Sandboarding & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Sandboarding thrills camel rides and sunset BBQ deep in Dubai’s red dunes

You’ll race over Dubai’s famous red dunes in a 4x4, try your luck at sandboarding, and see the desert from atop a camel before relaxing in a premium camp with BBQ dinner and live shows. Expect laughter, new friends, and little moments you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Someone handed me a tiny cup of cardamom coffee before I’d even taken off my shoes. The air at the Lahbab Desert camp was thick with sweet smoke from the grills, and I could hear laughter bouncing between the tents. Our guide, Ahmed—who somehow knew everyone’s name by the first stop—had already warned us that dune bashing wasn’t for the faint-hearted. He was right. My stomach did somersaults as we flew over those red dunes in the 4x4. Honestly, I grabbed onto the seat like my life depended on it (maybe it did for a second). The sand outside looked almost pink in the late afternoon light—never thought sand could look soft.

Afterwards, we all tumbled out of the car laughing and brushing sand off our clothes. There was this quiet moment when I tried to balance on a sandboard at the top of a dune—wind whipping my hair into my mouth, sun still warm on my neck. I fell twice before I got it right (Ahmed cheered anyway). Then came the camel ride—awkward but kind of peaceful, with nothing but sky and shifting dunes all around. Some kids waved at us from another group; their camels looked just as unimpressed as ours did.

Back at camp, someone pressed dates into my hand and gestured for me to try henna painting. The artist grinned when I flinched at how cool the paste felt on my skin. Later there was a swirl of music and color—belly dancers spinning so fast their skirts blurred—and people clapping along without really knowing the rhythm (me included). We ate grilled lamb and salads under string lights while someone tried to teach me “shukran” for thank you—I probably butchered it but got a smile anyway. Can’t say I’ll ever forget that taste of smoky meat with desert dust still on my lips.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and cultural experience

• Pick up from Dubai location
• Drive to Lahbab Desert
• Dune bashing in 4x4 vehicle
• Camel ride in desert
• Sandboarding on red dunes
• Take desert photos
• Arrive at Premium Desert Camp
• Welcome with Arabic coffee and dates
• Relax in majlis seating
• Henna painting session
• Dress in traditional Arabic attire
• Enjoy gourmet BBQ dinner
• Watch belly dance and Tanoura shows
• Relax in shisha lounge
• Return to Dubai location

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Dubai red dunes safari?

Yes, shared 4x4 SUV hotel pickup and drop-off are included from your location in Dubai.

What activities are part of this Lahbab Desert safari?

The tour includes dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, henna painting, traditional dress-up, live shows, shisha lounge access, and a gourmet BBQ dinner.

Are there vegetarian options at the BBQ dinner?

The dinner features grilled meats as well as fresh salads and desserts; vegetarian options are available among salads and sides.

How long does dune bashing last?

The dune bashing session lasts approximately 35-40 minutes.

Is this desert safari suitable for children or seniors?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or heart issues.

Can I get henna tattoos during this Dubai desert tour?

Yes, complimentary henna painting is offered by skilled artists at the camp.

Are drinks provided during the experience?

You’ll be welcomed with Arabic coffee and dates; other drinks may be available for purchase at camp.

What’s included

Your day includes shared hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned 4x4 SUV from anywhere in Dubai. You’ll experience dune bashing across Lahbab’s red sands, try sandboarding down soft slopes, ride camels through open desert, enjoy traditional Arabic coffee with dates on arrival at a premium camp where you can relax with shisha or get henna tattoos painted by local artists. Dinner is a full gourmet BBQ with salads and desserts before returning to your hotel that evening.