Dubai Red Dunes: Quad Bike, Camel Ride & BBQ Desert Safari

Summary

Quad biking on Dubai’s red dunes plus camel ride and BBQ

You’ll race across Dubai’s red dunes by quad bike, try sandboarding or camel riding with a local guide, then settle into a premium camp for a BBQ dinner with live dance shows under desert skies. Expect laughter, new tastes, and moments that linger after you’re back in your hotel.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bouncing along in the 4x4 before I’d fully realized how far Dubai’s skyline had slipped away behind us. Our driver—Ali, who kept grinning in the rearview—pointed out where the sand started turning that rusty red, like paprika. The air felt drier than I expected, but not sharp. When we stopped for the quad bikes, I could smell engine oil and something sweet—dates maybe?—from a nearby stall. My helmet felt a bit too big but nobody seemed to mind.

I’m not sure what I thought riding a camel would feel like (definitely wobblier than horses), but our guide, Fatima, showed me how to hold on so I didn’t topple off. She laughed when my scarf blew into my face—“Desert fashion!” she said. The camels looked bored but patient. After that came dune bashing—forty minutes of sliding up and down those huge red dunes with Ali whooping louder than us half the time. Sand got everywhere; I’m still finding it in my shoes.

The sun was just starting to dip when we stopped for photos at the top of a dune. It wasn’t quiet exactly—the wind made this low whistling sound—but it felt big and empty all around us. At camp later, someone handed me sweet tea as soon as we arrived (I spilled some on my sleeve). There was henna painting if you wanted it—I did—and a chance to try on traditional robes for photos (I looked ridiculous). Dinner was smoky grilled meat and salads under strings of lights while dancers spun and fire performers did their thing. The air smelled like spices and charcoal; I remember thinking how different the stars looked out there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert adventure and cultural experience

• Pick-up from Dubai hotel
• Travel through city sights to red dunes
• Camel ride in Lahbab Desert
• Quad biking on red dunes
• Dune bashing in 4x4 vehicle
• Sandboarding on desert dunes
• Sunset photo stop on high dune
• Arrive at Premium Desert Camp
• Dress in traditional Arabic attire
• Enjoy BBQ dinner under stars
• Watch belly dance and Tanoura shows
• See fire dance performance
• Get henna painting
• Return to Dubai with drop-off

Top questions

How long is the Dubai Red Dunes Safari tour?

The main activities last an afternoon into evening, including pickup from Dubai and return after dinner.

Is quad biking included in the desert safari?

Yes, a 25-minute quad bike session across the red dunes is included.

Are hotel pickups provided for this tour?

Yes, shared 4x4 pickup from Dubai hotels or residences is included.

What kind of food is served at the desert camp?

A BBQ buffet dinner with grilled meats, salads, and traditional dishes is served at camp.

Are there live performances during dinner?

Yes, belly dancing, Tanoura spinning shows, and fire dance performances are included during dinner.

Is this tour suitable for young children or infants?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; specialized seats are available for an extra charge.

Do you need previous experience to ride the quad bikes?

No prior experience is needed; guides provide safety instructions before riding.

Can pregnant travelers join this safari?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers due to bumpy rides and physical activity.

What’s included

Your day includes shared hotel pickup by 4x4 from anywhere in Dubai out to Lahbab’s red dunes for quad biking, sandboarding, dune bashing with a skilled driver, and a short camel ride—all guided by locals. At sunset you’ll be welcomed into a premium desert camp for a BBQ buffet dinner with live dance shows plus options like henna painting and traditional dress photos before heading back to your hotel that night.