Abu Dhabi Desert Safari Tour with Shows & Buffet Dinner

Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi and craving an authentic desert adventure? This Abu Dhabi Desert Safari promises to be a full-fledged experience, combining adrenaline, culture, and entertainment—all rolled into one. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve taken this tour to give you a well-rounded picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the value for money is impressive — at just $60 per person, you get a mix of exciting activities, cultural elements, and a buffet dinner with live performances. Second, the guides and staff are often praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, making the trip smoother and more engaging. Third, the diverse activities—from dune bashing to sandboarding, camel riding, and traditional shows—cater to a wide range of interests.

However, a potential consideration is the length and pace. With many stops packed into around 6-7 hours, expect a busy schedule that might feel a bit rushed at times. Also, some reviews mention that transportation could be less comfortable if you’re expecting a private or more luxurious ride.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, fun-packed desert experience without breaking the bank, especially those interested in a mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $60, it offers good value with plenty of included activities.
• Authentic Experiences: Camel rides, traditional performances, and a Bedouin-style camp make it culturally enriching.
• High-Quality Guides: Guests often praise guides like Mansoor, Zayed, and Sayed for their friendliness and professionalism.
• Diverse Activities: Dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and photo stops provide variety.
• Good Food: A 10+ course buffet dinner with BBQ options, plus snacks and drinks, satisfies most appetites.
• Rich Entertainment: Live belly dancing, Tanoura, and fire shows add excitement to the evening.

Detailed Review: What to Expect from the Abu Dhabi Desert Safari

Seamless Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned 4×4, making for a comfortable start. This aspect is crucial because it removes the hassle of finding your way and adds a touch of convenience, especially after a long day of sightseeing. The drivers are generally attentive, with several reviews noting their helpfulness and friendliness. One traveler from the reviews mentioned that their driver was “attentive and informative,” which hints at the personal touch the guides try to bring.

The journey from your hotel to the desert is about an hour, depending on your location, and while some reviews have noted that the vehicle can be a bit cramped, most found it acceptable given the overall experience. Be aware that the tour is conducted on a shared basis, so group size can be up to 500 travelers, which might lead to busy moments but keeps the experience lively and social.

Adventure at the Dunes: Dune Bashing and Sandboarding

The highlight for many is the dune bashing over the towering sands of Al Ajban. The powerful 4×4 vehicles race across the dunes, providing that exhilarating, rollercoaster feeling. This activity is perfect for thrill-seekers or those wanting a taste of adrenaline, with many reviewers describing it as “adrenaline-pumping.” One guest expressed their excitement, noting the “electric” feeling of racing across the dunes.

Sandboarding is also part of the package, where you can glide down the dunes and feel a sense of surfing on sand. Guided sandboarding sessions are included, giving you a chance to try this fun activity with minimal fuss. The experience is straightforward and suitable for most, with some reviewers mentioning that they relished the rush of sliding down.

Sunset Photo Stop: Capture the Desert’s Golden Hour

A designated sunset photo stop allows guests to snap pictures of the desert bathed in a warm, golden glow. Reviewers consistently praise this moment as one of the most picturesque parts of the tour. The natural beauty of the desert at sunset creates stunning photo opportunities, and travelers love having this peaceful yet dramatic backdrop.

Bedouin-Style Camp and Cultural Experiences

The evening continues at the Adventure Gate Desert Camp, where traditional Arabic hospitality takes center stage. As the sun dips below the dunes, guests are welcomed with refreshments and the chance to ride camels — a brief ride that many find charming and memorable. One reviewer mentioned that the camel ride is quick but fun, and for those wanting more, an optional longer ride can be purchased for 20 AED.

The camp boasts a 10+ course buffet, featuring grilled chicken, kebabs, salads, rice, pasta, and hummus. Multiple reviews note the food as “tasty” and plentiful, with some calling it “good value” for the price. Guests also appreciate the variety, including vegetarian options and unlimited drinks, from soft drinks to tea and coffee.

Live Entertainment and Nighttime Shows

The desert evening is lively with live performances, including belly dancing, Tanoura spinning, and a fire show. Many reviewers highlight the quality of these shows, describing them as “mesmerizing” and adding cultural authenticity to the experience. The performers are skilled, and their acts are set against the starry desert night, which adds magic to the scene.

One reviewer, Mirtha_M, praised the helpfulness of the guides, noting that Johnny was particularly friendly and accommodating throughout the tour. Our research indicates guides like Mansoor and Zayed receive similar praise for their professionalism, making the experience more personal and engaging.

Return and Final Remarks

After the evening festivities, the group is transported back to your hotel or residence, typically about an hour away. The return journey is smooth, with most guests feeling satisfied with the day’s adventures. Some reviews mention that the organization could improve slightly, but overall, the experience remains highly rated, with a 4.9/5 from over 140 reviews.

Analyzing the Value

For $60 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes transportation, a variety of activities, cultural experiences, and a hearty buffet. When you consider the inclusion of dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and live entertainment, the price point becomes quite reasonable. Many travelers note that the quality of food and entertainment exceeds expectations at this price level.

However, if you’re seeking a luxurious or private experience, this tour might not be ideal, as it is designed to accommodate large groups. The vehicle comfort and organization may vary, but most find the experience engaging and worthwhile.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and fun without a hefty price tag. Families, first-time visitors, and those interested in experiencing the desert’s natural beauty alongside traditional performances will find it especially appealing. It’s also suitable for travelers who are happy with a busy schedule and appreciate lively, social atmospheres.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re looking for a value-packed, authentic desert experience. The combination of dune bashing, cultural activities, and lively entertainment makes for a memorable outing. It’s suitable for those who want a full day of adventure that includes both thrills and cultural insights.

The guides and staff are often highlighted for their friendliness, which enhances the overall experience. The delicious buffet dinner and live shows add a festive touch, making the evening feel special without the high price tag.

While it might not suit travelers seeking luxury or private experiences, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to see the desert, enjoy local hospitality, and have fun in a vibrant setting.

FAQ

How does the pickup work?
You’ll be picked up from your hotel or residence in an air-conditioned 4×4, which is included in the tour. Pickup times start around 2:00 pm.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including pickup, activities, dinner, and return.

What activities are included?
Dune bashing, short camel rides, sandboarding, sunset photo stops, and cultural performances. Quad biking is available at an extra cost.

Is the buffet dinner vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, the buffet offers both vegetarian and omnivore options, with a variety of salads, grilled dishes, and more.

Are live entertainment shows suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest the shows like belly dancing, Tanoura, and fire performances are family-friendly, but parents should decide based on their children’s sensitivities.

Can I take photos during the sunset stop?
Absolutely. The sunset point is perfect for photos, with stunning views of the dunes.

What’s the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 500 travelers, so expect a lively group atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring flexibility.

Is transportation comfortable?
While most travelers find the ride acceptable, some mention that the vehicle can be tight, especially with larger groups.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 27 days in advance, but spots might be available closer to the date depending on demand.

In essence, this Abu Dhabi Desert Safari offers a well-rounded, enjoyable adventure suited to those seeking fun, culture, and value.