Dubai Red Dunes: Quad Bike, Camel Ride, BBQ & Live Shows

Summary

Quad biking over red dunes, camel rides at dusk and BBQ in Dubai desert

You’ll feel every bump as you race across Dubai’s red dunes by quad bike, try your balance sandboarding, ride camels at sunset and relax with live shows plus a BBQ dinner in the cool desert air. Expect laughter, some sand in your shoes—and maybe even henna stains to remember it by.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how quiet it got once we left Dubai behind. Our driver (Ahmed, who had this dry sense of humor) picked us up right from the hotel in a 4x4—no fuss. Out past Sharjah, the city faded out and the desert just took over. The Lahbab Red Dunes looked almost painted in the late afternoon light. I remember gripping the seat as Ahmed started dune bashing—my stomach did flips on those steep drops. It’s loud inside the SUV but outside it’s just wind and that weirdly soft crunch of tires on sand.

I’d never driven a quad bike before and honestly thought I’d chicken out, but you get a quick run-through and then you’re off for about 25 minutes. Sand everywhere—in my shoes, mouth, hair—but it felt good to be messy for once. There was this kid from Germany ahead of me who kept waving like we were racing (we weren’t). After that, they handed us over to these gentle camels for a slow ride right as the sun started dipping low. The air cooled off fast; I could smell cardamom from somewhere nearby—maybe tea brewing at camp?

Later on, we tried sandboarding down one of those high slopes (I fell twice; no regrets). At camp there was this woman painting henna—she smiled when I asked for something simple because my hands are tiny. The live shows kicked off after dark: swirling skirts, fire spinning so close you could feel the heat for a second. Dinner was smoky grilled meat and salads under a sky that felt impossibly big. By then everyone was tired but happy—someone started singing quietly near our table and nobody shushed them.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert safari with activities and dinner

• Pickup by 4x4 SUV from hotel
• Dune bashing in 4x4 vehicle
• Camel ride at sunset
• Enjoy live traditional dance shows
• Savor authentic BBQ dinner
• Dropoff by 4x4 SUV to hotel

Top questions

How long is the Dubai dunes safari tour?

The experience typically lasts several hours including pickup and dropoff from your hotel or residence.

Is quad biking included in the Dubai desert safari?

Yes, there is a 25-minute self-drive quad bike experience included.

Are meals provided during the safari?

An international buffet dinner with BBQ (vegetarian & non-vegetarian options) is included.

What activities are part of this Dubai desert tour?

Dune bashing, quad biking, camel ride at sunset, sandboarding, henna painting, and live entertainment shows are all included.

Is pickup available from hotels in Sharjah?

Yes, pickup and dropoff by 4x4 SUV is available from locations in both Dubai and Sharjah.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

Are drinks included during dinner?

Tea, coffee, soft drinks and cold water are provided during your meal.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and dropoff by 4x4 SUV from anywhere in Dubai or Sharjah; a wild 35-40 minute dune bashing session at Lehbab Desert; about 25 minutes on a self-drive quad bike; time to try sandboarding or ride camels at sunset; intricate henna painting if you want; plus an international buffet BBQ dinner with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes alongside unlimited tea, coffee and soft drinks—all before heading back under night skies.