Desert Safari Tour, Quad Bike with BBQ Dinner & Show from Dubai

Imagine cruising over vast, golden dunes, feeling the rush of adrenaline from dune bashing, and then relaxing under a starry sky with a delicious barbecue and lively entertainment. That’s what this Dubai desert safari promises—and based on thousands of reviews, it mostly delivers. As someone who’s researched many desert tours, I’ll share what makes this experience stand out, along with tips to help you make the most of it.

What we love about this tour:
First, the skilled guides and drivers who make every moment fun and safe. Second, the chance to capture stunning sunset photos amid the dunes—Instagram-worthy for sure. And third, the variety of activities, from sandboarding to camel rides, keeps the experience lively and engaging.

However, one thing to consider is that the tour’s price is quite accessible, but optional extras like quad biking come at an extra cost, so if that’s a must-have for you, plan accordingly.

This tour is perfect for adventure-seekers, first-time visitors wanting a taste of desert life, or anyone interested in a well-rounded, authentic experience with plenty of photo ops and entertainment.

Key Points

• Expert guides and drivers ensure a safe and entertaining experience.
• Variety of activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and henna make it comprehensive.
• Beautiful sunset views and photo stops add a memorable visual element.
• Dinner and entertainment options elevate the experience into an enjoyable evening under the stars.
• Affordable price point offers excellent value for the range of experiences included.
• Flexible options for full-day or shorter tours, with optional extras like quad biking.

The Experience: An In-Depth Look

Starting with Pickup and Transport

Most travelers will appreciate the hotel pickup service, which is smooth and reliable, ensuring you’re collected comfortably in an air-conditioned 4WD Land Cruiser. From the moment you’re in the vehicle, your driver sets a friendly, professional tone, often sharing insights into Dubai’s landscape and culture—something noted by many reviewers. One traveler mentioned that their guide, Latif Jan, was not only attentive but also entertaining, helping ease any nerves about the off-road adventure.

The transfer takes about an hour from Dubai city, giving time to settle in and get excited for what’s ahead. Plus, shorter groups (around 6-8 in a vehicle, as some reviews suggest) make the experience more intimate and less chaotic.

The Dune Bash: High-Speed Adventure

The highlight for many is dune bashing—a 30- to 45-minute off-road ride over towering, golden dunes, led by a professional driver with impressive skills. Reviewers consistently praise their guides, like Mohammed Sajid and Ibrahim, for their safety-conscious yet exhilarating driving style. One reviewer called the dune bashing “an unexpected adventure,” emphasizing how the driver made it both exciting and secure.

Expect to climb and skid down dunes, feeling like you’re on a roller coaster. Many reviewers mention that the ride is fast-paced and fun, with some describing it as “insanely fun” and “superb.” A few noted that the timing is precise, ensuring you get the best views of the sunset and avoid delays.

Stopping for Sunset Photos and Sandboarding

After the initial adrenaline rush, the tour pauses for a photo stop at sunset, offering spectacular views of the desert illuminated by warm, glowing light. This is often a favorite moment for travelers, capturing those perfect desert vistas. One guest shared that their guide, Mohamed, took incredible pictures of everyone, making sure no one missed the stunning sights.

Next comes sandboarding, a highlight for thrill-seekers. There’s no limit on how much fun you can have sliding down the dunes—just be cautious, as one reviewer humorously mentioned injuring themselves during the activity. The thrill of gliding down the sands is universally appreciated, with many describing it as “so much fun” and “a great experience.”

Cultural and Leisure Activities at the Desert Camp

The tour then transitions to a desert camp, where you can enjoy a variety of cultural and leisure activities. Many travelers rave about the camel rides, which typically last 2-3 minutes but provide a unique perspective of the desert life. Several reviews emphasize that the guides and hosts are welcoming and attentive, making sure everyone feels comfortable.

You might also indulge in henna tattoo art or try on traditional costumes, adding an authentic touch to your trip. Reviewers appreciated the hospitality, with one noting that Latif Jan was particularly good at helping guests feel relaxed and entertained.

Dining and Evening Shows

For those who selected the full 7-hour experience, the BBQ dinner under the stars is a major highlight. Expect a live buffet featuring Arabic-style grilled meats, vegetarian options, and fresh dates, alongside Arabic coffee and soft drinks, all served in a relaxed camp setting.

The entertainment is lively and colorful, with Tanoura dancers, belly dancers, and fire shows creating a captivating atmosphere. Guests like Cristina B mention that the shows “went above and beyond,” and the timing was carefully managed to catch the sunset, dinner, and activities without feeling rushed.

Optional Extras and Personalization

Quad biking is available as an additional activity for around $41, but it’s not included in the base package. Several reviewers mention that the quad bikes are available nearby, and if you’re a fan of motorized fun, it’s worth booking in advance. However, based on reviews about the conditions of the quads, it might be a good idea to confirm availability and quality on the day.

Overall Value

With a price of $45 per person, this tour offers a lot. From dune bashing to cultural activities, dinner, and entertainment, the cost is quite reasonable—especially considering the positive reviews about quality guides and the variety of experiences packed into about 4 to 7 hours.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: Most users book about 22 days ahead, so secure your spot early, especially during peak seasons.
• Upgrade if you can: If quad biking or other extras interest you, check availability and budget accordingly.
• Dress comfortably: The desert can be hot during the day and cooler at night, so layered clothing is wise.
• Bring a camera: The sunset and dunes are picture-perfect—don’t forget your phone or camera.
• Stay hydrated: Water is provided, but bringing an extra bottle is never a bad idea.
• Listen to your guide: They often share interesting facts and tips, making the experience richer.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari caters perfectly to first-timers looking for a comprehensive desert experience, adventure lovers craving dune bashing and sandboarding, or anyone wanting a lively evening with local food and entertainment. It’s especially good for small groups who enjoy engaging guides and a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re after solitude or a luxury experience, this might not be the ideal choice—it’s designed for fun, socializing, and capturing memories.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most bookings include pickup and drop-off in a 4WD vehicle, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 7 hours, depending on the option you choose, with most experiences lasting around 4 hours.

Can I upgrade to include quad biking?
Quad biking is available upon request for an extra $41, but availability depends on the day. It’s best to book this in advance if interested.

Are vegetarian options available for the dinner?
Yes, the BBQ dinner includes vegetarian options, along with a buffet of grilled meats and fresh sides.

Is dune bashing safe?
Yes, guided by professional drivers who have been praised for their skill and safety awareness. The ride is fast and thrilling but managed carefully.

What entertainment is included in the evening?
You’ll see traditional Tanoura dancers, belly dancers, and fire shows, creating a lively and authentic desert vibe.

Final Thoughts

This desert safari tour from Dubai offers a well-rounded adventure that combines adrenaline, culture, and entertainment at a very reasonable price. The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and expertise, making even nervous first-timers feel at ease. The sunset views, sandboarding, and optional dinner and shows elevate the experience into a memorable evening under the stars.

Perfect for those who want a fun, authentic taste of desert life with plenty of photo opportunities and lively entertainment, this tour strikes a great balance between adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking your first desert experience or a lively night out, this safari ticks many boxes.

If you’re after a safe, engaging, and value-packed desert adventure, this tour is hard to beat. It’s a great choice for families, groups, and solo travelers alike—just be ready to get a little sandy and a lot of happy memories.