Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner & Live Shows

If you’re considering a desert adventure in Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner & Live Shows seems to offer a well-rounded experience. With over 795 reviews giving it a perfect 5-star rating, this tour has earned a reputation for fun, value, and authentic desert sights. From the thrill of dune bashing to the relaxing cultural performances and delicious food, it promises an evening filled with diverse activities.

What makes this safari appealing? We love the combination of adrenaline and laid-back cultural entertainment, the convenience of hotel pickup, and the quality of the included BBQ dinner. At the same time, it’s worth noting some travelers have expressed concerns over extra charges or the varying quality of some activities. This tour suits travelers who want a lively, all-in-one desert experience that balances adventure with cultural flavor, especially for those short on time or looking to celebrate a special occasion in style.

Key Points

• Value for money: At $60 per person, the tour offers a packed 6-hour experience.
• Safety and convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected Abu Dhabi hotels.
• Diverse activities: Dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, henna, and live entertainment.
• Authentic cultural moments: Belly dancing, fire shows, and traditional performances.
• tasty BBQ dinner: End the night with a buffet that generally impresses, but some reviews note small portions.
• Potential extras: Extra charges for photos, falcon encounters, or additional activities are common, so be prepared.

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup and Initial Journey

Your adventure begins with a professional driver collecting you from your hotel. Many reviewers mention smooth pickups and friendly drivers, like Zohaib, who made the journey enjoyable from the start. You’ll be transported to the desert in an air-conditioned vehicle, often accompanied by a group of up to 200 fellow explorers, making it lively but not crowded.

Dune Bashing: The Heart-Pumping Highlight

Once in the desert, the real excitement kicks in. Dune bashing in a 4×4 is the star activity, with drivers navigating the towering sand dunes at exhilarating speeds. Many reviewers, including experienced travelers, found this part to be the most memorable and fun — “Dune bashing was so much fun,” says Patricia. It’s a rollercoaster ride across shifting sands that will leave you laughing and slightly breathless.

However, it’s not for everyone. Abigail mentioned she was surprised by how intense the ride was, and some might find it a little frightening or physically demanding. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer calmer activities, you might want to consider that this segment is quite lively.

Camel Rides and Sandboarding

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll get the chance to try camel riding—a short, circular walk in the desert. Several reviews note that the camel ride is quick, with some saying it’s just a minute or two, and sometimes an additional fee might be asked for longer rides. Still, many find it a charming cultural touch and perfect for photos.

Sandboarding is often included, offering a fun way to glide down the dunes. The views during sunset make for fantastic photo opportunities, which many travelers cherish. It’s a more laid-back activity that balances the earlier thrills.

Cultural Shows and Live Entertainment

As the evening progresses, you’ll enjoy live belly dancing, fire shows, and other performances. Reviewers like Lindsay appreciated the “great scenery and experience,” and Fiona noted the talent of the performers, who added authenticity and vibrant energy to the night. Be aware that performers are often backed by a lively, somewhat pushy environment where vendors may approach for tips or extra services.

The BBQ Dinner and Final Acts

The tour concludes with a buffet-style BBQ dinner, which most reviewers find delicious and satisfying. The food typically includes grilled meats, salads, and drinks, although some mention portions can be small or that extra charges for drinks or table service might apply. Fiona appreciated the “excellent meal and entertainment,” and Patricia praised the friendly staff who helped make everyone feel like VIPs.

The dinner scene can sometimes be delayed, with reviewers noting that waiting around after activities is common, especially in the heat. Still, the overall quality of the food and the lively atmosphere make it a fitting end to the night.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration & Group Size: The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, making it suitable for an evening outing. The tour hosts up to 200 travelers, which can mean a lively environment but also potential for crowded moments, especially at the camp.

Pricing & Value: At $60 per person, this safari packs in multiple activities, shows, and a meal, giving good value for those wanting a comprehensive desert experience. Some reviews highlight the tour’s affordability compared to standalone activities, although extras like photo sessions or falcon encounters typically cost additional fees.

Pickup & Drop-Off: Included in the package, with most reviews confirming smooth transfers from Abu Dhabi hotels, making it a hassle-free experience.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable shoes are advisable. If you’re interested in photos, it’s worth budgeting for extra charges for professional pictures, as some reviewers mention vendors actively promote these.

What the Reviews Reveal

A mix of opinions offers a balanced picture. Many travelers praise the professional guides and stunning desert views, with some highlighting the exhilaration of dune bashing and the quality of the evening shows. Food and entertainment generally receive positive feedback, though some mention small portions or pushy vendors. A handful of reviews describe feeling rushed or overcharged for extras, so it’s wise to clarify prices beforehand.

For instance, one traveler appreciated the knowledgeable guides who explained activities clearly, and another loved the photography opportunities during sunset. Conversely, a few reviews express frustration over extra charges for activities like falcon photo ops or camel rides.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is ideal for adventure seekers looking for a mix of thrills and cultural entertainment in one evening. It’s also a good choice for families or couples wanting a memorable night out in the desert. If you’re keen on photos and lively shows, this package delivers.

However, if you prefer quieter, more exclusive experiences or dislike being approached by vendors, you might find parts of this tour a bit overwhelming. Also, those with limited mobility should note the activities are mostly on sand and may not be suitable for everyone.

Final Notes on Value and Authenticity

This tour offers a solid package for a very reasonable price, creating a fun and visually stunning desert adventure. The dune bashing, live performances, and delicious BBQ make it a memorable outing that encapsulates the essence of desert nights in Abu Dhabi.

If you’re after a comprehensive experience that hits the highlights—adventure, culture, and cuisine—this safari ticks most boxes. Just be prepared for some upselling, and consider your comfort level with the more energetic activities.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers stress-free pickup and drop-off from a selection of Abu Dhabi hotels, making logistics easy.

How long does the entire experience last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, giving enough time to enjoy all activities without feeling rushed.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Some activities, like photos with a falcon or longer camel rides, might incur extra charges. Also, drinks or table service at dinner could be additional.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers, including families with kids, participate, but note that dune bashing might be intense for very young children or those sensitive to motion.

What kind of food is served at dinner?
A BBQ buffet featuring grilled meats and sides. The quality is generally good, though some reviews mention small portions or extra charges for drinks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What should I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended. Be prepared for possible heat during the day and cooler temperatures after sunset.

Is the dune bashing safe?
The ride is conducted by professional drivers who know the dunes well, but the activity can be intense. If you have concerns or health conditions, consider your comfort level.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Activities on sand and some performances might not be suitable for those with mobility challenges. Check with the tour provider for specific concerns.

Is it worth doing this tour for a one-time visit?
Most reviewers agree it offers excellent value for its price and provides memorable moments—perfect for a first visit or special occasion.

To sum it up, the Abu Dhabi Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner & Live Shows offers a lively, diverse night in the desert with plenty of picture-worthy moments, exciting activities, and cultural performances. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting an all-in-one desert adventure that combines thrill with tradition, especially if you’re on a budget and want a memorable evening with friends or family. Just be ready for some upselling and energetic vendors, and you’ll have an experience to remember.