Dubai Desert Safari

Travelers seeking a taste of Arabia’s vast and golden sands often turn to Dubai’s renowned Desert Safari tours. With a stellar rating of 5.0 based on 14 reviews, this adventure is clearly a favorite for many. Offered by Cutie Pie Tourism at around $61 per person, the experience promises a well-rounded mix of adrenaline, culture, and entertainment—all packed into roughly six hours. Whether you want a group outing or a private escape, this tour has flexible options that appeal to a wide range of visitors.

What really catches our eye are the professional guides who make sure every moment is safe and fun, the thrilling dune bashing that leaves even seasoned travelers wide-eyed, and the delicious BBQ dinner at the camp site with lively performances. But, it’s also worth noting that ATV rides and buggy adventures are not included in the base price, so if you’re craving that extra dose of adrenaline, you’ll want to budget for it.

While the value for money is high—especially considering the variety of activities, transport, and entertainment—the tour does have some considerations. For example, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness, and is not recommended for very young children or seniors over 80. If you’re after an authentic, comprehensive desert adventure with a dash of luxury, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with pickup, drop-off, and transport
• Multiple activities including dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and cultural performances
• Delicious BBQ dinner with live shows, catering to veg and non-veg guests
• Optional ATV and buggy rides for adventure lovers
• Expert guides ensure safety and entertainment
• Great for families and groups seeking a mix of excitement and culture

Overview of the Dubai Desert Safari

The Dubai Desert Safari with Cutie Pie Tourism offers a full 6-hour journey through some of the most captivating landscapes in the Arabian Desert. It balances adrenaline-pumping activities with cultural experiences, making it suitable for those wanting both adventure and relaxation. The tour’s consistency and high praise from previous travelers suggest a level of professionalism that’s hard to beat.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Lahbab – The Heart of Dune Bashing

The adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel, chauffeur-driven in an air-conditioned vehicle. The first stop, Lahbab, is where the real fun kicks off. It’s here that the dune bashing occurs—an activity that involves driving a 4×4 over steep, soft dunes, creating moments of thrilling acceleration and sharp turns. Reviewers rave about how skilled the guides are, with one saying, “Shakeel Chahal is not only the best desert photographer but also the best 4*4 user,” indicating both technical expertise and a friendly demeanor.

During this part of the tour, there’s a quick photo stop on the dunes, perfect for capturing that iconic desert shot. Expect about 2 hours here, which allows plenty of time for fun on the dunes and some relaxed photo moments.

What’s in it for you? Travelers often mention how the dune bashing is the highlight, with reviews saying “it was an exciting adventure,” and that guides make sure everyone’s safety is prioritized. The landscape is stunning—vast, shimmering sands that seem to stretch forever—ideal for those Instagram-worthy shots.

Stop 2: Al Awir – The Cultural Camp Experience

Following the adrenaline, you’ll head to a more relaxed setting, the Al Awir campsite. This is where the Arabian hospitality shines. Expect a delicious BBQ dinner buffet, with options catering to vegetarians and non-vegetarians. The food is described as “big spread” and “great,” reflecting the value of this included meal.

During this 3-hour stop, you will be entertained by live performances—from Tanoura dance and belly dancing to fire shows. Reviewers highlight the professionalism of the entertainment, with one mentioning “the fire show was amazing.” Plus, you can enjoy henna painting, try on traditional costumes, or relax with free-flow soft drinks, water, coffee, and tea.

The setting is lively and colorful, with performers from diverse backgrounds adding to the multi-cultural ambiance. Many reviews emphasize how organized and smooth the entire experience is, often mentioning punctuality and the attentive staff.

Stop 3: Javid Buggy – The Adventure Opt-in

For thrill-seekers, the optional ATV rides and buggy experiences are the cherry on top. At the buggy camp, you can choose from various quad bikes and buggies depending on your preference. The reviews are glowing—many mention how Shakeel took great care of them and how the dune bashing was “amazing.”

The 1-hour slot for this activity isn’t included in the base price, so if you want to add it, be prepared for extra costs. Travelers say it’s absolutely worth it if you crave more adrenaline, with one reviewer describing it as “a fun-thrilled activity.”

What’s Included and What’s Not

The core package includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and a lineup of classic desert activities such as dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and a cultural experience with henna, costumes, and soft drinks. The BBQ dinner and live entertainment are highlights, creating a well-rounded evening.

However, alcoholic beverages, VIP tables, and souvenirs like sand art or photos from the camp photographer are not included. ATV rides are optional and extra, which travelers often recommend budgeting for in advance to maximize adventure.

Transport and Group Size

The tour uses comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, with a maximum of 24 travelers per group. This smaller group size ensures a more personalized experience, especially during activities like dune bashing and dinner. Reviewers consistently mention how timely pickups and professional guides enhance the experience, making it smooth from start to finish.

Tour Duration and Timing

The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, generally from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. or later, depending on the season. The flexible hours and Monday to Sunday operation mean you can plan accordingly. The tour is available from mid-morning, allowing you to fit in other activities later in the day.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

What sets this safari apart are reviews from actual travelers. Many praise Shakeel for his friendly attitude, expert dune driving, and photography skills—so if you’re into capturing the perfect shot, he’s your guy. One reviewer emphasizes how the timing and careful driving made the experience enjoyable, even for those who aren’t usually thrill-seekers.

The BBQ dinner is often highlighted as a standout feature, with one guest describing the food as “great” and the fire show as “amazing,” showing how the tour combines good eats and entertainment.

Travelers also appreciate the professionalism of the guides and staff, noting that everything runs smoothly and on schedule. For families and groups, the VIP options—such as private cars and clean, well-maintained tents—add a layer of comfort and exclusivity.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

At $61, this tour offers excellent value considering the wide variety of included activities, transport, food, and entertainment. The professional guides and well-organized schedule** ensure a seamless adventure that caters to different interests. The optional activities like ATV riding allow for more adrenaline if you’re craving it, though they do come at an extra cost.

The tour’s flexible nature, combined with positive reviews, makes it suitable for families, couples, and groups looking for a balanced mix of excitement, cultural exposure, and relaxation. It’s especially appealing for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive desert experience that hits all the highlights without breaking the bank.

For those who want to capture stunning photos, enjoy live performances, or simply revel in the desert’s beauty, this safari delivers on all fronts. The emphasis on safety, professionalism, and entertainment has clearly resonated with travelers, making it one of Dubai’s most recommended desert adventures.

What is included in the Dubai Desert Safari?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting, a BBQ dinner buffet, and live entertainment.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, from pickup in the morning to drop-off in the early afternoon.

Is there an option for adventure activities?
Yes, ATV rides and buggy experiences are available but are not included in the base price. They can be booked separately at the camp site.

Can I customize the experience?
While the core tour runs on a fixed itinerary, you can opt for private experiences or add activities like ATV riding for additional costs.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a BBQ dinner buffet with veg and non-veg options is included, along with soft drinks, water, coffee, and tea.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 24 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While generally suitable for families, participation in activities like dune bashing and ATV riding requires moderate physical fitness and may not be recommended for very young children or seniors over 80.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, outdoor clothing suitable for warm weather, and closed-toe shoes for dune activities are recommended.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private options are available and are perfect for those wanting a more exclusive experience.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Dubai Desert Safari by Cutie Pie Tourism offers a well-rounded adventure with an emphasis on safety, fun, and cultural experiences. From the adrenaline rush of dune bashing to the relaxing ambiance of the camp with lively shows and a hearty BBQ, it appeals to a wide range of travelers.

Whether you’re a first-timer eager for iconic desert photos, a family wanting a day of fun, or an adventure lover craving extra thrills, this tour provides a reliable and memorable escape into Dubai’s defining landscape. Its combination of professionalism, authentic storytelling, and excellent value makes it a top choice for many visitors eager to discover the sands of Arabia.