Evening Abu Dhabi Desert Safari & BBQ Dinner- Standard Tour

Setting out on a desert safari in Abu Dhabi is a highlight for many travelers seeking an authentic taste of the UAE’s vast sands and vibrant culture. This particular tour, offered by Arabiers, promises a well-rounded experience that combines adventure, tradition, and entertainment in a single evening.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the expert guides lead the way, ensuring safety and sharing insights that enrich the journey. Second, the stunning desert vistas during sunset and stargazing sessions bring a touch of magic to the experience. Lastly, the variety of activities—from dune bashing to sandboarding—keeps the adventure lively and engaging.

A possible consideration is the nature of the shared transport—while it keeps costs lower, it might not suit travelers looking for privacy or a more exclusive experience. This tour is especially suited for those eager to enjoy a comprehensive desert outing without the fuss of planning every detail themselves. If you’re after a fun, authentic night in the desert with plenty of photo ops and entertainment, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of adventure and culture in a 6-hour experience.
• Professional guides who explain what you see and ensure safety.
• Activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding for thrill-seekers.
• Dinner and entertainment, including BBQ and traditional dances.
• Stargazing provides a peaceful end to the night.
• Cost-effective at $99, with many options for added fun like quad biking (if requested).

What to Expect from the Tour Experience

This Abu Dhabi desert safari offers an accessible yet exhilarating way to explore the iconic sands. Starting at 3:00 pm, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation in a fully insured, rollover-protected 4×4. The vehicle and guide are provided by Arabiers, a company with solid reviews for their knowledgeable and friendly staff. The group size is capped at around 30 travelers, which strikes a good balance between camaraderie and comfort.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Camel Farm Stop and Photo Session:
Your adventure kicks off with a visit to a camel farm, where the herd of camels leisurely roams beside you. This is a genuine photo opportunity, capturing the timeless desert image. Some guests, like Luisa, have found her guides — like Abdul — to be super communicative, making each moment informative and fun. She mentions that Abdul “explains what you see on the way,” which adds depth to the experience.

Dune Bashing and Desert Drive:
The highlight for many is the dune bashing — a 4×4 adventure up the slopes of the Maga dunes, with some reviewers describing it as “a little extreme” but thrilling. If you’re uneasy about high-speed rides, it’s good to know you can choose how intense the ride is — though most reviews suggest it’s a fun, adrenaline-pumping activity. The sunset views over Al Khatim Desert are spectacular, offering perfect photo moments and a peaceful backdrop after the bumpy drive.

Traditional Desert Camp and Activities:
Arriving at the camp, you’ll be welcomed with hot beverages, soft drinks, and dates, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The camp hosts activities like camel rides, sandboarding, and dish dash (a traditional game), all included in the package. Reviewers have appreciated the well-trained guides and the opportunity for short camel rides for photos, which are often highlights.

Cultural Entertainment:
As evening settles, you might catch belly dancing and tura dance performances (subject to availability), adding lively entertainment to the night. Many travelers, including Luisa, have praised the quality of the shows as some of the best they’ve seen.

BBQ Dinner and Dessert:
The mixed grilled buffet offers a hearty tasting of Arabic meats, bread, rice, and more. Guests note that the meal is “good” and satisfying, especially after a day of adventure. For dessert, expect sweet treats to round off the meal. The cost of $99 per person reflects a decent value considering the included activities, dinner, and entertainment.

Stargazing and Nighttime Calm:
After dinner, you’ll enjoy a stargazing session in the silence of the desert, a peaceful way to end an active day. This tranquil moment is often highlighted by guests as a magical experience that makes the trip memorable.

What’s Not Included and Optional Extras

While the tour covers most essentials, some extras aren’t included, such as alcoholic beverages and quad bike rides (which can be booked if requested). If you’re interested in a more adrenaline-heavy addition, make sure to coordinate with your guide or tour operator beforehand.

Transportation and Group Size

The pickup is shared, starting at 3:00 pm, which helps keep costs lower but means you’ll be traveling with other guests. The max group size of 30 ensures a lively yet manageable experience. The vehicles are insured and rollover-protected, offering peace of mind during the dune bashing.

Value and Pricing

At $99 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that balances adventure, culture, and comfort. When you factor in the dune bashing, camel rides, dinner, entertainment, and stargazing, the cost looks reasonable. Compared to more exclusive options, this tour provides excellent value, especially considering the expert guides and well-maintained vehicles.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers who want to experience the desert’s thrill without spending a fortune. It’s also well-suited for those interested in cultural activities and traditional entertainment. However, if you prefer private, luxury experiences or dislike sharing, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s lively atmosphere and group setting are perfect for travelers eager to meet others and enjoy a fun, authentic desert night.

Final Thoughts

The Evening Abu Dhabi Desert Safari & BBQ Dinner offers a wonderful introduction to the region’s desert landscapes, combining thrilling dune bashing, cultural activities, and a tasty barbecue in a single evening. The knowledgeable guides and stunning sunset and starry sky make it a memorable outing for most travelers.

While it’s not a luxury experience, the lively atmosphere and variety of activities make it a great choice for adventurous souls who want to get a taste of desert life without breaking the bank. The well-organized schedule and authentic touches, like henna art and traditional costumes, add to the genuine feel of this tour.

If you’re after a fun, well-rounded desert trip that combines thrills with cultural charm, this tour ticks most of those boxes comfortably. Just be prepared for the shared transportation and some optional activity upgrades if you want to push the adventure further.

FAQs

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes shared pickup from Abu Dhabi hotels or preferred locations, starting at 3:00 pm.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

What activities are included?
Expect camel farm visits, camel rides, dune bashing, sandboarding, and traditional desert camp activities like henna and dancing.

Is dinner provided?
Yes, a BBQ mixed buffet dinner with desserts is included, offering Arabic meats, rice, bread, and sweet treats.

Are there entertainment options?
Yes, you might see belly dancing and Tura dance performances, depending on availability.

Can I book additional activities like quad biking?
Quad biking is not included but can be booked separately if requested during your booking or at the camp.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind that dune bashing can be intense, and sharing the ride may not suit everyone, especially young children or those seeking quiet experiences.

To sum it up, this desert safari delivers a well-rounded, fun-filled evening rich with adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes — ideal for travelers wanting a memorable taste of Abu Dhabi’s desert side without overcomplicating things.