Dubai Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner and Abu Dhabi City Tour ( 2 Days Tour)

Traveling through the United Arab Emirates offers a fascinating mix of ultramodern cityscapes and timeless desert landscapes. This two-day small group tour promises to give you a taste of both worlds, with an exhilarating desert safari in Dubai and a cultural day exploring Abu Dhabi’s highlights. Having reviewed numerous desert safaris and city tours, we’re here to share what makes this experience stand out — and what to keep in mind.

What we love about this tour:
First, the expert guides and drivers truly make a difference—they add local insights and safety that elevate the experience. Second, the combination of adventure and cultural stops ensures your trip feels well-rounded, from dune bashing to visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Lastly, the value for money is notable, considering the included activities, meals, and transfers.

One consideration worth noting is that the tour is quite packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely, unhurried pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those eager to maximize their time and see the highlights, it’s a solid pick.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Dubai’s desert and Abu Dhabi’s culture without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s perfect for first-timers, groups, or anyone interested in an active, engaging experience that covers a lot of ground in just two days.

Key Points

• Well-rounded experience combining desert adventure and city sightseeing
• Includes multiple cultural and entertainment stops, like the Grand Mosque and desert shows
• Small group size (max 15) enhances personalized attention
• All activities and meals are taken care of, providing convenience
• Guides and drivers are praised for their skill and local knowledge
• Value-oriented pricing offers a lot of activities for the cost

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Dubai Desert Safari Experience

The day kicks off with an approximately 6-hour evening desert safari designed to showcase Dubai’s iconic dunes. The adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel, ensuring a smooth start. The vehicle takes you to the desert where the real fun begins with dune bashing—a high-energy ride where your driver expertly skids, slides, and plows through the sands. Reviewers describe the dune drive as “adrenaline-pumping” and “fully enjoyable,” with one particularly noting that Sohail’s friendly approach and music selection made the ride memorable.

Next, you’ll see falcons and stop for a spectacular sunset photoshoot—a highlight for many who love capturing the desert’s shifting light. As evening falls, you arrive at a traditional Bedouin-style camp, where the experience shifts from adrenaline to culture. Here, you’ll be welcomed with Arabian coffee and dates, setting a warm tone.

At the camp, you’ll find a range of entertainment options: Tanura dance shows, belly dancing, and a fire show. These performances are lively and authentic, often appreciated for their energy and skill. For a more immersive experience, you can opt for a traditional henna tattoo or smoke shisha, which many reviews mention as enjoyable cultural touches.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try camel riding, which is described as a relaxing contrast to the dune bashing. For photo enthusiasts, there are traditional Arabian costumes available for photos, and some travelers have enthusiastically recommended capturing moments with Arabian falcons (additional charges apply).

All of this is complemented by a gourmet barbecue dinner—a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options—served under a starlit sky. Reviewers mentioned the quality and variety of the BBQ, making it a fitting end to the desert adventure.

Day 2: Abu Dhabi City Highlights

The second day takes you on a scenic 2-hour drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, passing through the Jebel Ali Free Zone, which is interesting for those curious about the UAE’s industrial side. Upon arrival, the day is dedicated to cultural and luxurious sightseeing.

The first major stop is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, widely praised for being the third largest mosque in the world and a true architectural marvel. Reviewers say the mosque’s white domes and intricate details are even more stunning in person, and guides often share fascinating insights about Islamic architecture and cultural significance.

Next, you’ll visit the Dates Market, giving you a taste of local produce and an idea of everyday life in Abu Dhabi. It’s a lively place, and many appreciate the chance to shop for souvenirs or enjoy fresh dates.

The tour wraps up with a visit to Emirates Palace, one of the most expensive hotels worldwide, famous for its gold-adorned interiors and opulent design. While you may not stay overnight, photographing this luxury hotel and learning about its grandeur provides a sense of Abu Dhabi’s lavish lifestyle.

Throughout the tour, professional guides and drivers ensure a smooth and informative experience. The group size of up to 15 travelers fosters a personal atmosphere, and many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. As one reviewer said, “Mr. Nawaj made the trip entertaining”, highlighting the importance of a good guide.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics effortless. Included are dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, plus Shisha and henna painting—all topped with unlimited soft drinks, water, coffee, and tea. The BBQ dinner under the stars is included, along with entertainment shows like belly dance, Tanura dance, and fire performances.

However, some extras are available for purchase, such as falcon photos, souvenirs, and alcohol (the latter not included but available). Gratuities are optional, and the tour’s cost—$120 per person—appears quite competitive considering the extensive list of activities.

How about the timing?

The desert safari runs in the evening, around sunset, offering stunning lighting for photos and a cooler climate for the activities. Day two is primarily sightseeing in Abu Dhabi, with flexible timings based on the group’s pace.

What Reviewers Say

Feedback consistently highlights the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, with reviewers praising Naveed and Sohail as particularly memorable drivers. One reviewer shared that Sohail’s music and friendly vibe made the dunes even more enjoyable, while others appreciated how well-informed the guides were about the local sites.

The desert show performances received high marks for their authenticity and energy, and many noted that the BBQ dinner was a delicious, filling highlight. The cultural stops in Abu Dhabi like the mosque and the Emirates Palace were described as breathtaking and worth the trip.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress comfortably and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites like the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
• The small group size means you’ll want to arrive promptly and be ready to move efficiently.
• If photo opportunities with falcons or in traditional costumes interest you, prepare extra cash for those additional charges.
• The desert safari’s late evening timing makes it ideal for cooler weather, but pack sunscreen and a hat if you’re sensitive to sun earlier in the day.
• Consider bringing a camera with a good zoom or wide-angle lens to capture the desert sunset and mosque architecture.
• The tour is quite active, so wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for some physical activity like sandboarding and camel riding.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This two-day experience is perfect for travelers eager to see the highlights of Dubai’s desert life and Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks without the hassle of organizing multiple bookings. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, small groups, or anyone wanting a well-organized, fun-packed trip that balances adventure, culture, and entertainment.

If you love authentic performances, scenic drives, and cultural experiences, this tour offers all that in a convenient package. The inclusion of meals, entertainment, and guided visits adds value, especially for those who want a worry-free experience.

Final Verdict

This tour packs a lot into just two days, making it a cost-effective way to see both Dubai’s desert and Abu Dhabi’s highlights. The reviews confirm that knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences elevate the trip beyond just ticking boxes.

While it’s quite full-on and might feel rushed for some, the combination of dune adventures, cultural stops, and luxury sights makes it an excellent choice for those who want a comprehensive, fun introduction to the UAE.

With friendly guides, stunning views, and a good mix of adventure and culture, this tour offers great value for the price. Perfect for curious, active travelers who want to cover a lot of ground and come away with memorable stories and photos.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start and end your day without extra hassle.

What activities are included in the desert safari?
The safari features dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, shisha, henna painting, and cultural shows like belly dance and fire performance.

Are meals provided?
Yes, the tour includes multiple meals, including a barbecue dinner under the stars at the Bedouin camp.

Can I take photos with falcons or in traditional costumes?
Yes, photo opportunities with falcons and in local costumes are available for an extra charge.

What are the main sightseeing stops in Abu Dhabi?
You’ll visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Dates Market, and Emirates Palace.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps maintain a personalized experience.

This 2-day tour balances adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it a memorable way to experience the UAE’s most iconic sights and traditions.