6 Hours Desert Safari Dubai Tour with BBQ Dinner & Live Shows

Exploring the Dubai Desert in 6 Hours: An Honest Review of the Desert Safari Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the iconic Dubai desert, a 6-hour desert safari might be just what you need. This tour, offered by Like Tourism, promises a mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment—all wrapped up in one affordable package. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a well-rounded experience that appeals to many travelers.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the thrilling dune bashing over the towering Red Sand Dunes of Lahbab creates an adrenaline rush and stunning photo ops. Second, the authentic Bedouin camp experience, complete with camel rides and Arabic sweets, offers a glimpse into traditional Emirati life. Lastly, the live entertainment and BBQ dinner ensure your evening ends with laughter, music, and delicious food.

One thing to consider is that, while the tour includes a full lineup of activities, some may find the pace a bit hurried, especially on a tight schedule. It’s ideal for those seeking a comprehensive, fun-packed experience rather than a leisurely day. Perfect for adventure lovers, families, or anyone eager to explore Dubai’s desert landscape with a touch of culture and entertainment.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $40 per person, this tour offers good value considering the variety of activities.
• Action-Packed Itinerary: From dune bashing and sandboarding to camel rides and live shows, there’s plenty to keep everyone engaged.
• Authentic Cultural Touches: Traditional Arabic sweets, henna tattoos, and Arabic costume photos enhance the cultural experience.
• Stunning Views: The sunset photo point and panoramic desert vistas are highlights.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off in 4×4 vehicles make it hassle-free.
• Family-Friendly Options: Quad biking and dune buggies are suitable for kids, adding an adventurous element for all ages.

A Detailed Look at the Dubai Desert Safari Experience

Pick-up and Initial Drive

Your adventure begins with hotel pickup in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle, usually around 2:00 pm. The group size can go up to 500 people, but the vehicle is designed to provide a smooth ride to the desert. This early start means you’ll get to see the desert in daylight, allowing for some spectacular photos.

Lahbab Dunes & Dune Bashing

The first major stop is the Lahbab Desert, known for its tall, red dunes—the highest in the UAE. Here, your guide will take you on dune bashing, a rollercoaster ride over the sandy peaks that promises both thrill and fantastic views. Reviewers mention the driver’s care and skill, with one noting, “The driver cared all the time, making it a good party in the safari.”

Before hitting the dunes, there’s a special rest stop for refreshments, bathroom breaks, and some quick photos. This is where you’ll also find quad biking and dune buggy rides, suitable for both kids and adults. The option to self-drive adds a layer of excitement, especially for those craving more than just sitting in a vehicle.

Bedouin Camp and Camel Rides

Next, the tour takes you to the Atlanta Tourism Bedouin camp at Al Awir, a top-ranked desert camp that combines traditional and modern touches. Once there, you’ll be welcomed with Arabic tea and sweets, such as luqaimat, giving a taste of local hospitality.

The camel ride is a highlight for many, offering a traditional way to explore the desert landscape. Reviewers mention the camel ride as a must-do, with one describing it as “the traditional way of travel by Emirati people,” adding to the authenticity of the experience.

Cultural Activities & Relaxation

Post camel ride, there’s time to relax at the camp. You can take photos in traditional Arabic costumes or get a henna tattoo—a favorite for those looking to add a memorable souvenir. Reviewers appreciated these authentic cultural touches, which allow for fun and meaningful photos.

Evening Entertainment & BBQ Dinner

As evening approaches, the camp transitions into a lively scene. Live entertainment kicks off with belly dancing, fire shows, and Tanoura dancers, creating a festive atmosphere. The BBQ dinner features unlimited options, including chicken, mutton, and a variety of salads and desserts. Guests have raved about the quality and variety of the food, noting that the dinner includes over 15 different dishes.

During dinner, the entertainment continues with fire and Tanoura dance shows, adding a vibrant, colorful backdrop. Guests often mention how the lights go down during performances, making the shows more dramatic and immersive.

Return Journey

After a full evening of adventure and entertainment, your driver will drop you back at your hotel around 9 pm. The tour lasts about 6 hours from pickup to drop-off, making it a manageable yet packed experience for travelers keen to maximize their time in Dubai.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

The combination of adventure, culture, and entertainment makes this safari uniquely appealing. The dune bashing over the stunning Red Dunes offers unforgettable views and a rush of adrenaline. The visit to a traditional Bedouin camp allows you to connect with Emirati heritage, while the live shows and BBQ dinner ensure a fun, social atmosphere.

At just $40, the tour is quite accessible for many travelers. The inclusion of hotel pickup/drop-off, dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and live entertainment means you’re getting a comprehensive experience without surprises or hidden costs—except for optional activities like quad biking.

The reviews are largely positive, with guests praising the care of the driver, the spectacular sunset views, and the authentic cultural activities. One reviewer, Laura_M, summed it up as “Enjoyed every minute,” highlighting the overall satisfaction with the tour’s flow and activities.

Who is this tour best suited for?

It’s perfect for families with children, thanks to kid-friendly activities like quad biking and camel rides. Adventure seekers will love the dune bashing and sandboarding, while those interested in cultural experiences will appreciate the camp’s authentic touches. It’s also a great option if you’re on a budget but want a full, fun-packed afternoon and evening in the desert.

Final Thoughts

This 6-hour desert safari in Dubai offers a well-balanced mix of thrills, culture, and entertainment. Its affordability and inclusive itinerary make it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to tick off Dubai’s desert experience with ease and fun.

While it’s not a slow-paced, luxury experience, it hits the right notes for travelers craving excitement and authentic cultural glimpses. The positive reviews, stunning views, and vibrant entertainment confirm this tour offers good value for your money.

If you’re looking for a lively, memorable adventure that combines adrenaline with culture, this safari will likely meet your expectations—and maybe even surprise you with some unexpected delights.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off in 4×4 vehicles, dune bashing, sunset photo opportunities, camel rides, sandboarding, welcome drinks, henna tattoo options, Arabic dress photography, a BBQ dinner with over 15 dishes, and four live shows.

What activities are available at the desert stop?
You can enjoy dune bashing, quad biking, dune buggy rides, and exploring the Red Sand Dunes. There’s also a special stop for refreshments and photos.

Is there a minimum age for activities like quad biking?
Yes, quad biking is suitable for kids as there are specially shielded tracks and smaller bikes designed for young riders.

How long is the drive from the hotel to the desert?
The pickup starts around 2:00 pm, and the drive to Lahbab Desert typically takes about an hour, depending on your location.

Are drinks included during the tour?
Yes, you’ll be offered welcome tea/coffee and cold drinks at the rest stop before entering the desert.

What should I wear for the desert activities?
Comfortable, modest clothing suitable for warm weather is best. Don’t forget sunglasses and a hat for sun protection, especially during dune bashing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for refunds.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size is large, but solo travelers often find it easy to connect and enjoy the shared adventure.

What makes this tour stand out from other desert safaris?
Its affordable price, rich variety of activities, cultural authenticity, and positive guest reviews make it a top pick for those wanting a lively, comprehensive desert experience.

To sum it up, this Dubai desert safari offers a fun, affordable way to experience the sands of the UAE. Whether you’re after adrenaline, cultural insights, or simply stunning desert vistas, this tour packs a lot into a manageable 6 hours. It’s a solid choice for families, adventure lovers, and curious travelers eager to enjoy Dubai’s iconic desert landscape with a splash of entertainment.