Desert Safari Trip, 6 Hour Fun, Friends & Family, Camel Ride & Dinner Included.

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the iconic Dubai desert, this 6-hour desert safari offers a little bit of everything: dune bashing, camel rides, a buffet dinner, and lively entertainment. While it’s budget-friendly at around $34 per person, it’s important to keep expectations in check, especially given the mixed reviews.

We love the opportunity to see Dubai’s desert landscapes up close in a relatively short time, the variety of activities included, and the authentic Bedouin-style campsite ambiance. But, be aware that some guests have encountered logistical hiccups and variable service quality. This tour seems best suited for families or groups looking for a fun, affordable desert experience with plenty of photo opportunities and entertainment.

Key Points

• Affordable price point makes it accessible for most travelers
• Multiple activities like dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and henna painting
• Entertainment options include belly dancing, fire shows, and tanoura performances
• Mixed reviews highlight inconsistencies in pickup timing and guide communication
• Food quality is generally appreciated, with a hearty BBQ buffet included
• Transport involves shared group transfers, which can sometimes be punctual or delayed
• Best for those wanting a lively, budget-friendly desert adventure with plenty of photo ops

Overview of the Desert Safari Experience

This desert safari, operated by Arabian Holidays, aims to give you a full taste of Dubai’s desert scene in about six hours. Starting at 3:00 pm, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from various points in Dubai and Sharjah, making it relatively flexible for city-based travelers. The activity is designed as a family-friendly, fun-filled outing, perfect for those who want to combine adventure, culture, and entertainment in a single afternoon.

The price of $34 per person makes it a popular choice among budget travelers, especially since it covers many features—dune bashing, camel rides, a BBQ dinner, and live performances. However, some reviews indicate that the experience can vary quite a bit depending on factors like guide professionalism and logistical organization.

What’s Included: A Closer Look

The package packs in numerous activities and amenities that contribute to its appeal:

• Pickup & Drop-off: Shared transfers from your hotel or designated points, which is convenient but can sometimes be subject to delays or early arrivals (some reviews noted drivers arriving 30 minutes early without warning).
• Dune Bashing: The hallmark of any Dubai desert trip, the 4×4 land cruisers tackle the sandy slopes with enthusiasm. Expect some adrenaline, as well as a chance for great photos.
• Camel Ride & Sandboarding: While the camel ride promises a traditional desert experience, some guests found it surprisingly short—about 2 minutes—and some reported high-pressure sales for souvenir photos. Sandboarding is available but typically as part of a package add-on.
• Photo Opportunities: Several scenic stops allow for memorable photos, especially around the camp and dunes.
• Entertainment: Four live shows are included—belly dance, fire show, and tanoura performances—which add a lively, vibrant atmosphere.
• Cultural Touches: Henna painting (for women) and sheesha smoking are available to enhance the cultural vibe.
• Food & Drinks: The BBQ buffet features vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, complemented by tea, coffee, water, and soft drinks. Reviewers frequently note the food as satisfying and plentiful.
• Additional Activities: For adults, flavored shisha is available at extra cost. Quad biking and VIP waiter services are available but not included in the base price.

How the Itinerary Unfolds

The tour starts with pickups in Dubai or Sharjah, typically around 3:00 pm, and heads straight into the desert. On arrival, you’ll begin with dune bashing, a rollercoaster ride over the sand dunes designed to thrill but also demanding a sturdy stomach—some reviews mentioned that the ride can feel too quick or rough for sensitive travelers.

Next, there’s usually a photo stop overlooking the dunes, perfect for snapping shots against the sunset backdrop. The camel ride, often a short 2-minute trek, is a cultural highlight, although some guests expressed frustration over the short duration and high-pressure photo sales.

The camp site is set up in a traditional Bedouin style, offering a chance to try henna painting, smoke flavored shisha (for adults), or simply relax on cushions and enjoy the performances. The live entertainment is a major draw—belly dancers, fire performers, and vibrant tanoura dancers work hard to entertain the crowd, with some guests describing the shows as “beautiful” and “magical.” It’s worth noting that some reviews felt the shows catered more to older audiences, with complaints about the timing and variety.

Finally, the BBQ buffet dinner wraps up the evening, with a hearty spread of grilled meats, vegetables, salads, and traditional sides. Several reviewers highlighted the quality and quantity of the food, describing it as satisfying after a day of adventure.

The Realities: Pros and Cons

While it’s tempting to focus on the fun parts, it’s important to consider the less-than-perfect feedback. Many reviews point out issues like delays in pickup or drop-off—some drivers arrived 30 minutes early, others were difficult to contact, leading to stress and confusion. A handful of guests also reported that they were asked to pay extra for activities like quad biking or professional photos, which can add up if you’re not prepared.

Guide communication was another mixed point; some guests appreciated the friendly guides who provided helpful tips and explanations, while others experienced silence or vague instructions—especially during the dune bashing and camel rides. The short duration of the camel ride and high-pressure photo sales were common complaints, so don’t expect a lengthy, authentic camel trek.

Regarding value for money, the tour offers a lot of activities for its price, but beware of extra costs that might not be obvious upfront. Still, many guests found this safari to be a fun way to spend an afternoon and evening, especially if you’re after a lively atmosphere and a variety of photo opportunities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This desert safari is ideal for families with young children, who can enjoy the short camel ride and vibrant entertainment without paying a premium. It’s also perfect for budget travelers wanting a quick, lively desert adventure that includes dinner and multiple activities. If you’re after a more authentic, tranquil experience or a longer camel trek, you might want to look elsewhere.

For those who enjoy cultural entertainment, lively shows, and a busy, social environment, this tour hits the mark. However, if punctuality and guide communication are critical for your experience, be prepared for some variability.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Book well in advance, as this tour is popular—on average, booked 62 days ahead.
• Manage expectations regarding timing; delays are common, so plan accordingly.
• Be prepared for additional costs if you want quad biking or professional photography.
• Dress comfortably, especially for the belly dancing and fire shows.
• Bring your camera and phone for the numerous photo opportunities, but be aware of high-pressure sales.

FAQs

Is pickup offered from my hotel? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from various points in Dubai and Sharjah, but confirm your pickup location when booking.

How long is the dune bashing ride? The exact duration isn’t specified, but guests report it’s quick—around 15 minutes—so don’t expect a lengthy thrill ride.

Are food and drinks included? Yes, a BBQ buffet with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, plus tea, coffee, and soft drinks are included.

Can I do quad biking? Quad biking is available at extra cost, usually at the camp site, and is not included in the base package.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, flavored shisha smoking and professional photos are usually extra.

Is the camel ride long enough? The typical camel ride lasts about 2 minutes; some guests found it too short, and there are high-pressure sales for souvenir photos.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing you to plan with confidence.

Final Thoughts

This Dubai desert safari offers a lively, affordable way to experience the desert’s magic without breaking the bank. With activities that suit families and groups, coupled with vibrant entertainment and a hearty BBQ dinner, it ticks many boxes for a fun afternoon and evening out.

However, the experience can be inconsistent—delays, guide communication, and short camel rides are common issues highlighted by reviewers. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic desert experience, or prefer punctuality and smooth logistics, consider other options. But for those seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment at a budget price, this safari delivers plenty of memorable moments.

In the end, it’s a good choice for travelers who don’t mind a bit of unpredictability and value a lively atmosphere over luxury.