Evening Desert Safari Dubai with Camel Riding & BBQ Buffet Dinner

If you’re dreaming of an evening in Dubai’s iconic desert, this tour promises a mix of excitement, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine—all packed into about six hours. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews, consistent ratings, and transparent itinerary make it clear that this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into desert life with plenty of fun activities and entertainment.

What we love most? The chance to see stunning desert sunsets, enjoy a variety of activities like camel riding and sandboarding, and indulge in a flavorful BBQ buffet under the stars. Plus, the live performances—belly dancing, fire shows, and traditional dances—add a lively, festive atmosphere. A potential snag? Some reviews mention that the duration of certain activities can be shorter than expected, or that optional extras can rack up costs, so managing expectations and knowing what’s included is key.

This tour seems best suited for travelers seeking an affordable, lively desert outing that balances thrill, culture, and good food. If you’re after a fun, reasonably priced adventure with plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $23.50 per person, this tour offers great value for a full evening in the desert.
• Diverse Activities: Camel riding, dune bashing, sandboarding, henna, shisha, and live entertainment deliver a well-rounded experience.
• Flexible Options: Extra thrills like dune buggy rides and ATV biking are available for those craving more adventure.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The Bedouin-style camp, Arabic costumes, and traditional shows create an immersive desert vibe.
• Group Size & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off included, with a large group capacity, making it easy to join a lively crowd.
• Mixed Reviews: While many rave about guides and activities, some mention shorter experiences and optional costs, so good planning helps.

Exploring the Dubai Desert with OceanView Tours

This six-hour tour offers a taste of Dubai’s desert landscape, combining adrenaline-pumping activities with cultural entertainment and a hearty BBQ dinner. For travelers in search of an affordable, engaging experience that captures the essence of desert life, this is a solid pick. Here’s what you need to know.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel or residence, typically around 2:30 pm, and a scenic 4×4 drive towards Lahbab, the renowned desert area outside Dubai famous for its high dunes. The journey itself is part of the fun, with the vehicle riding the undulating sands, offering fantastic views and a thrill for those new to dune bashing.

Dune Bashing and Desert Views

Dune bashing is the core adrenaline activity here, with a professional driver expertly maneuvering the vehicle over the high, sweeping dunes. Reviews highlight that this is a highlight for many, with one reviewer noting, “Safari on the sand is an authentic journey,” and praising their guide Zahid for taking special care of their group. The experience is smooth and safe, providing just enough thrill to excite without overwhelming.

Camel Rides and Sandboarding

Next, guests are encouraged to try a short camel ride—perfect for capturing those classic desert photos. Reviewers confirm that this quick ride, often just a few minutes, is a memorable highlight, especially under a beautiful sunset. Sandboarding, where available, offers a fun way to slide down the dunes and is suitable for both kids and adults. One guest remarked it was “super fun,” reinforcing the activity’s popularity.

Cultural and Relaxation Activities

At the Bedouin-inspired camp, you’ll find the chance to dress up in traditional Arabic costumes, get henna tattoos, or relax with shisha in designated smoking areas. The reviews indicate that guides like Akhdai and Zahid are attentive and professional, making sure guests feel comfortable and engaged.

Food, Entertainment, and Evening Showcases

The tour’s dinner is an international BBQ buffet, with vegetarian options—and many reviews highlight the quality and variety of the food. One reviewer said, “The food was good, and the camel ride under the sunset was amazing,” emphasizing the value of the included meal.

Live entertainment is a big part of the experience, with two belly dance shows, fire performances, and traditional Tanura and Arabic dance acts. While some reviews note that shows may not be available during Ramadan, most guests find the performances lively and engaging.

Extras and Optional Activities

For those craving more action, dune buggy rides or all-terrain bike rides are available at an extra cost, allowing guests to extend their adventure. These options are popular among thrill-seekers, as some reviews mention feeling pushed towards optional extras, which can significantly increase the total cost if not planned for.

The Downsides

While the majority of reviews are positive, a few guests report that the duration of certain activities, such as dune bashing or camel riding, can be shorter than expected, with some rides lasting just 5 minutes. Others mention that optional extras like VIP meals or additional rides can add up quickly, so it’s worth clarifying what’s included before booking to avoid surprises.

A small percentage of reviews describe poor hygiene or crowded camps, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. The key is to manage expectations and choose options that suit your preferred level of activity and comfort.

Practical Details

This tour is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and pickup available from many locations in Dubai. The tour operates most days, with a start time of 2:30 pm and a maximum group size of 500, ensuring a lively, social atmosphere without feeling too overwhelming. It does not include alcohol, but soft drinks and water are unlimited.

The price is quite competitive considering the number of included activities, food, and entertainment. However, be aware that additional costs for extras like dune buggies can quickly add up, so plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This desert safari caters well to travelers seeking fun and affordable activities that showcase Dubai’s iconic sands without breaking the bank. Families, first-time visitors, or groups looking for a lively, social experience will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also suitable for those interested in cultural elements like henna or Arabic dress-up.

However, if you’re after a luxury experience or longer, more private rides, this tour might feel a little rushed or crowded. Always read the small print about what’s included and optional extras so you can tailor the experience to your expectations.

Final thoughts

This Dubai evening desert safari offers sumptuous desert scenery, a variety of activities, and lively entertainment—all at a price that makes it accessible for many travelers. You get a taste of traditional Bedouin culture, adrenaline-filled dune bashing, and a feast for the senses with food and shows.

It’s a great choice for those wanting to blend adventure and culture without spending a fortune. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful sunset views, and authentic activities make for a memorable evening in Dubai’s sands—perfect for first-timers or anyone eager to check off a classic desert experience.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this tour?
Pickup begins around 2:30 pm, with the tour lasting approximately six hours, ending in the evening.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in the package, with transportation in a 4×4 vehicle from your hotel or residence.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the BBQ buffet dinner includes vegetarian choices, and they can accommodate most dietary preferences.

How long is the dune bashing?
The duration varies, but reviews mention that it can be as short as 10-15 minutes, so if you’re seeking longer rides, you might want to inquire about upgrades.

Can I participate in activities like sandboarding and camel rides?
Absolutely. Short camel rides and sandboarding are included, with the option to add extras like dune buggy rides for more adventure.

Are there cultural activities?
Yes, activities like henna painting, shisha, and traditional dances are part of the experience, adding a cultural touch to the evening.

Is alcohol served?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included or available during this tour.

What shows are included?
Live entertainment includes belly dancing, fire shows, Tanura dance, and traditional Arabic dances, most of which run twice during the evening.

How crowded is this tour?
With a maximum of 500 travelers, it’s quite lively but generally well-managed, offering a fun, bustling atmosphere.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy activities like henna and camel rides, though activities like dune bashing should be supervised, and some might find the duration too long for very young kids.

In summary, this Dubai desert tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment at a price that appeals to many. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a fun-packed evening with memorable photo ops, authentic activities, and delicious food—perfect for creating those Insta-worthy moments in the desert. Just remember to clarify what’s included and what optional extras might cost, so you can get the best value out of your experience.