Dubai Red Dunes Safari with Sunset, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner

Summary

Desert Adventure in Dubai: Quad Biking, Camel Rides & Bedouin Camp

If you want real adventure mixed with local culture, this Dubai red dunes safari is hard to beat. You’ll get wild dune rides, sunset views, camel time, live shows and a proper feast—all wrapped up in one evening.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the quiet—just the hum of our 4x4 as we left the city behind. Our guide, Khalid, chatted about old Emirati stories while we watched the sand change color in the late afternoon sun. The air felt dry and warm, but not uncomfortable. When we reached the dunes, he let some air out of the tires (apparently that’s key for dune bashing). Then it got wild—up and down those red slopes, sand flying everywhere. My stomach dropped a couple times but honestly, it was a blast. We stopped at one of the tallest dunes just as the sky started to turn orange. I grabbed my phone for photos—everyone did—but nothing really captures that light or how soft the sand feels under your feet.

After catching our breath (and brushing off half the desert from my shoes), we headed to a Bedouin-style camp. There was this sweet smell of shisha smoke and grilled meat in the air. A short camel ride gave me a whole new view of the landscape—camels are taller than you think! Inside the camp, there were little stations for henna painting and even a falcon handler letting us pose for photos. I tried Arabic coffee for the first time—tiny cup, strong flavor—and watched as dancers spun in colorful skirts. The fire show got everyone cheering. Dinner was a big buffet: kebabs, salads, fresh flatbread. By then, it had cooled off and you could hear music mixing with laughter all around.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert Safari and Bedouin Camp Experience

• Pickup in air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle
• Dune drive and sandboarding
• Sunset photos at highest dunes
• Camel ride
• Explore Bedouin camp activities
• Watch live performances
• Enjoy buffet dinner

Top questions

Is quad biking included or extra?

Quad biking isn’t included by default—it’s usually available as an optional add-on at the camp for an extra fee.

What should I wear for this desert safari?

Light clothes and closed shoes work best. Bring a jacket if you’re going in winter months; evenings can get chilly.

Are vegetarian options available at dinner?

Yes! The buffet always has several vegetarian dishes along with salads and bread.

Can kids join this tour?

Kids can join but dune bashing might be intense for very young children or anyone who gets carsick easily.

What’s included

You’ll get picked up in an air-conditioned 4x4 from your hotel or meeting spot. Dune bashing (30-45 min), sandboarding, camel rides, henna painting, shisha tasting, falcon photo ops—all included. Plus live performances (tanoura dance, belly dancing, fire show) and a full BBQ buffet dinner with Arabic coffee and tea.