Dubai Desert Safari with Camel Ride, Show, BBQ and Transfers

Planning a trip to Dubai often involves imagining the glittering skyline and luxurious malls, but the desert offers a completely different type of adventure—and it’s widely praised for good reason. This Dubai Desert Safari tour promises a blend of thrill, tradition, and relaxation, all packed into about six hours of memorable experiences. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned desert explorer, this tour aims to deliver a well-rounded taste of what Dubai’s vast sands have to offer.

What makes this tour stand out? We’re talking about thrilling dune drives in a 4×4, authentic camel rides, spectacular sunset views, long-standing live performances, and a plentiful BBQ dinner. All of this is wrapped up with the convenience of hotel transfers, making it a hassle-free way to experience the desert without the need for planning. The fact that it’s rated 5.0 based on 46 reviews and recommended by 96% of travelers speaks volumes about its popularity and quality.

That said, consider that the experience is designed to be quite full and lively. The group size is limited to around 30 travelers, ensuring personalized attention but still maintaining a lively atmosphere. If you’re not a fan of active outdoor experiences or if you prefer more time for each activity, you might want to plan accordingly. But overall, this tour seems well suited for those eager to combine adventure, culture, and a bit of indulgence—all in one smooth outing.

Key Points

• Well-rounded experience blending adventure, culture, and entertainment
• Excellent value with diverse activities included at a competitive price
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insights and safety
• Beautiful sunset views over the dunes create perfect photo moments
• Delicious BBQ buffet with vegetarian options available
• Convenient hotel transfers add to the hassle-free experience

An Honest Look at the Dubai Desert Safari Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What’s Included and Why It Matters

This desert safari by ABC Tours is structured to give you a comprehensive taste of desert life and entertainment. Starting with hotel pickup, the experience is designed to be effortless—no need to worry about finding your way. The tour operates daily and begins with a light dune drive of about 3 kilometers on soft sands, giving you a gentle introduction to the dunes that will soon turn exhilarating.

One of the standout features is the Majlis Desert Safari Camp, where you’ll spend around three hours enjoying traditional Arabian hospitality. Here, the focus is on blending fun activities with cultural displays. Camel rides are a highlight, offering the chance to see the desert from a different perspective, and many reviewers—like the one praising a “perfect camel ride”—noted that this is a must-do. Sandboarding is also included, providing a thrill for those who like a bit of speed and skill on the sand.

The camp hosts three live shows—a belly dancer, Tanoura dance, and fire show—each adding to the festive, authentic atmosphere. Reviewers consistently mention how friendly and professional the staff are, which helps guests relax and enjoy every moment. Plus, there’s plenty of opportunity for photo ops in traditional Arabic costumes, making it a fun, memorable activity for groups and families alike.

The Sunset and Photo Opportunities

One of the most praised aspects? The magnificent sunset views over the dunes. As the sun dips behind the sands, the entire landscape is bathed in warm, golden hues—perfect for capturing those Instagram-worthy shots. Several reviewers have expressed that the sunset timing gives the experience a magical, almost surreal feel, making it a favorite moment for many.

Activities and Cultural Experiences

Beyond the dune drive and camel rides, the camp offers a henna painting station, where you can get traditional henna designs—a smaller detail that leaves you with a lasting souvenir. The shisha pipes are available for those who want to unwind with a flavored shisha, although these are available for purchase rather than included.

Regarding activities, some reviews mention that sandboarding was a little rushed, with guides offering only one chance per person to try it. This seems to be a minor point but good to keep in mind if you’re eager to master sandboarding.

The Dinner: A Tasty BBQ Feast

The BBQ buffet dinner is often highlighted as a major highlight, especially given the quality and variety of dishes. The menu includes pure vegetarian options and traditional Middle Eastern flavors, with sharwarma and falafel counters adding to the variety. Reviewers mention the food is delicious and abundant, with some noting that the fire-eater show is a standout entertainment element.

An important note: beverages like soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee are included, but alcohol isn’t—purchasing alcohol is available but not part of the package. This makes the evening suitable for a broad audience, including those who prefer to avoid alcohol.

The Evening Shows and Cultural Entertainment

The live performances are a crucial part of the experience. The belly dancer and Tanoura dance are traditional and lively, while the fire show adds an exciting, daring touch. Reviewers frequently emphasize how professional and engaging the performers are, creating an authentic, festive atmosphere.

Practical Considerations

The tour operates from March to September with pickup times between 4 pm and 5 pm, aligning with sunset hours. The dress code is smart casual, and travelers should have moderate physical fitness—the activities involve some walking, camel riding, and sandboarding.

Pricing at $59 per person offers excellent value when considering the variety of included activities, live shows, transportation, and dinner. Many reviewers noted that for what’s included, the experience is well worth the money.

Review Highlights: Authentic Feedback

Guest reviews echo a strong consensus about the professionalism of guides and smooth coordination. For example, one reviewer praised driver Ansar for being “professional and friendly,” while another appreciated Jabiz, the engaging guide who made everyone feel relaxed.

Multiple reviewers mentioned the timing and organization—with some pointing out that pickups were punctual and the entire experience felt seamless. On the downside, a few guests noted that sandboarding was a quick activity, but that’s typical given the packed schedule.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a well-organized, fun-filled evening with diverse activities, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to combine adventure with cultural entertainment. It also suits travelers on a budget who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning multiple activities independently.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Dubai Desert Safari offers a rich blend of thrilling dune drives, authentic cultural shows, and a delicious BBQ dinner, all wrapped in a convenient package. The guides and staff seem genuinely committed to creating a memorable experience, with many guests noting their professionalism and friendliness. The sunset views over the dunes and the variety of activities ensure there’s plenty to enjoy, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a culture enthusiast.

While some might find the sandboarding a bit rushed, the overall experience is full, lively, and packed with value. It’s a safe bet for those new to Dubai or looking for a classic desert adventure that balances fun, culture, and comfort.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from centrally located hotels in Dubai, making it very convenient.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including transfers, activities, and dinner.

Are vegetarian options available?
Absolutely. The BBQ buffet includes vegetarian dishes, and vegetarian options are clearly available alongside regular fare.

Can I upgrade to dune bashing?
Yes, there’s an optional upgrade to include dune bashing for an extra US$10 per person.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended; comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and moderate physical activity.

Is alcohol served on this tour?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included but can be purchased separately at the camp.

What activities are included?
Camel riding, sandboarding, henna painting, shisha, and live entertainment are part of the standard package.

Are photos with Arabic costumes included?
Yes, you can dress up in traditional costumes for photos at the campsite.

How many people typically join?
The experience is designed for a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a lively but intimate atmosphere.

What is the best time of year to go?
The tour runs daily but is especially enjoyable from March to September when sunset times align with the schedule.

In The Sum Up

This Dubai Desert Safari offers a well-crafted mix of adventure, cultural entertainment, and delicious food at a reasonable price. It’s especially great for travelers who want a hassle-free way to enjoy the desert’s beauty, with friendly guides and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking a memorable, authentic desert experience without the fuss, it’s a strong choice for anyone visiting Dubai.

Whether you’re eager to snap sunset photos, try sandboarding, or just relax with a delicious BBQ under the stars, this tour delivers. It’s a thoughtful, engaging way to see Dubai’s iconic sands and enjoy some truly spectacular Arabian hospitality.