Evening Desert Safari Dubai: Quad Biking, Dune Bashing & BBQ

Summary

Red Dune Adventure & Traditional Camp Experience in Dubai

If you want real Dubai adventure—quad biking over red dunes, wild dune bashing, camel rides at sunset, and a lively camp with food and shows—this evening safari is hard to beat. You’ll get thrills and local flavor in one unforgettable night.

What’s the experience like?

The city faded behind us as our 4x4 rolled out toward the red dunes. I remember the AC humming, but you could still feel the desert warmth sneaking in through the windows. Our driver, Khalid, pointed out the last bits of city lights before the sand took over—he said the best sunsets happen right here, just before the dunes swallow the sun.

Pulling up to the edge of the desert, the quad bikes were already lined up, engines purring. I’d never ridden one before, but after a quick safety chat and a helmet that smelled faintly of sunscreen, I was off—sand spraying behind me as I followed the group. The wind whipped past my face, and I caught a whiff of something sweet—maybe dates?—from a nearby vendor’s stall.

After the rush, we slowed things down with a short camel ride. The camels looked half-asleep, but they plodded along steadily. I snapped a few photos with the sun dipping low, painting everything in gold and orange. Then came dune bashing—honestly, I gripped the seat tighter than I’d admit. Our guide handled the 4x4 like he was born to it, weaving up and down the dunes while we all laughed and shouted. Sandboarding was a blast too; I wiped out twice, but that’s half the fun.

The camp was a welcome sight after all that action. Lanterns flickered along the entrance, and someone handed me a tiny cup of cardamom tea. There was a faint smell of charcoal in the air from the BBQ grills already heating up. I wandered over for henna painting (the artist worked fast), tried on a headscarf for a photo, and watched as kids played near the shisha corner.

As night settled in, music started up and performers took the stage—belly dancing, fire spinning, and a whirling Tanoura dancer that made everyone stop talking for a minute. The buffet opened with heaps of grilled meats, veggie dishes, fresh salads, and sticky sweets. I went back for seconds. When it was time to leave, I felt like I’d squeezed a whole week’s worth of adventure into one evening. The ride back was quiet—most of us dozed off under the soft hum of the car.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening Desert Safari Adventure

• Pickup from hotel and drive to red dunes
• ATV quad bike ride on dunes
• Camel ride
• Dune bashing and sandboarding
• Arrival and refreshments at desert camp
• Henna painting and photo opportunities
• Live shows and BBQ dinner
• Return to hotel

Top questions

Is quad biking safe for beginners?

Yes! The guides give clear instructions and safety gear before you start. Even if you’ve never tried it before, you’ll be fine.

Are vegetarian options available at dinner?

Absolutely. The BBQ buffet has both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes plus salads and desserts.

Can kids join this desert safari?

Kids are welcome! There are special seats for infants in the vehicles. Just note that some activities may not be suitable for very young children or those with health concerns.

What should I wear for this tour?

Lightweight clothes work best—think t-shirts and loose pants. Closed shoes are good for sand activities. Bring a jacket; evenings can get breezy out in the desert.

What’s included

Your tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off in a comfy 4x4 vehicle, 30 minutes of quad biking (with all safety gear), dune bashing with an expert driver, sandboarding fun, a short camel ride, henna painting, shisha at camp, live dance shows (including fire and belly dance), unlimited water and soft drinks, Arabic sweets and fruit, plus a big BBQ buffet with veggie options. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure!