Dubai: Sunset Camel Trek, Al Khayma Camp, Stargazing & BBQ

Trying to capture the essence of Dubai’s desert in just a few words is tough, but this Sunset Camel Trek and Bedouin Camp experience might just be one of the most authentic and enjoyable ways to do so. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the extensive reviews and detailed itinerary paint a vivid picture of what you can expect. From the scenic camel ride to the lively camp activities, it’s clear this experience offers a well-rounded taste of desert traditions mixed with the comforts of modern hospitality.

What really grabs us about this tour? First, the long, scenic camel trek at sunset promises stunning desert views. Second, the variety of cultural activities—like henna, falcon photos, and Arabic dress-up—keep things lively and interactive. Lastly, the delicious BBQ dinner with live entertainment rounds off the evening in style. The only possible hitch? The tour’s popularity means you’ll want to book well in advance—on average, it’s booked about 50 days ahead.

This tour is best suited for travelers eager for a cultural experience combined with natural beauty, those who enjoy outdoor activities, and anyone wanting a fuss-free way to enjoy Dubai’s desert without worries about logistics. If you’re after an authentic, fun, and visually stunning desert adventure, this might be just the trip for you.

Key Points

• Beautiful sunset camel ride across Dubai’s dunes.
• Interactive camp activities like henna, falconry, and dress-up.
• Authentic Bedouin-style camp with a lively barbecue dinner and entertainment.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off from Dubai hotels and ports.
• Great value for money considering the variety of included experiences.
• Well-reviewed guides and friendly staff enhance the overall experience.

How the Tour Begins: Hassle-Free Pickup and Transport

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the door-to-door service. OceanAir Travels offers hotel and port pickups, so you won’t need to worry about arranging transport or finding your way to a desert location. Expect to be picked up from your hotel or specified location within 45 minutes of your chosen departure time. The transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort even if you’re traveling during Dubai’s hotter months.

The drive to Al Khayma Camp takes roughly 45-50 minutes, a perfect window to relax, enjoy some music, or get excited for what’s ahead. The journey itself is scenic, offering a glimpse of Dubai’s outskirts and desert landscapes.

The Camel Ride: A Scenic Sunset Adventure

Arriving at the camp, the highlight for many is the camel trek. You’ll typically enjoy around 40 minutes riding a camel or horse across the dunes. As one reviewer, Jan_M, put it, the camel ride was “great,” and many found it to be the perfect way to connect with desert tradition. The timing at sunset makes for particularly remarkable photos—think wide-open skies painted in shades of orange and pink.

While the ride itself is leisurely and family-friendly, some reviewers, like Matthew_S, mentioned that the overall experience can feel busy or touristy. Still, the stunning scenery and the opportunity to see the desert in a calm, peaceful moment outweigh these concerns for most.

Exploring the Bedouin Camp: Culture and Activities

After the camel ride, guests are welcomed into the Al Khayma Desert Camp, which is shared with other travelers but feels authentic. Here, the real charm begins: you can sip Arabic coffee (Gahwa), nibble on dates, and enjoy Henna painting, a favorite for women and girls, as Heidy_L noted.

One of the standout features of the camp experience is the opportunity to dress in traditional Arabic attire—a fun photo moment that adds to the immersion. Several reviews highlight the entertaining guides, with one reviewer praising the “funny and energetic” camel guide, Shams, who made the experience even more memorable.

Other activities include falconry photos, camel feeding, and the chance to smoke shisha (also called a hookah). The live entertainment varies depending on the season and religious holidays—during Ramadan, for example, the shows might be limited to Tanoura and fire performances, as per UAE law.

Culinary Delights: BBQ Dinner and Entertainment

The highlight for many visitors is the barbecue open buffet dinner, which offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The food is described as “delicious” and abundant, with reviewers noting the quality and variety. Frank_C mentioned the great value of the meal, which is part of why this tour is considered a good deal for the overall experience.

Along With food, you’ll enjoy live shows, including Tanura dance and Ladies Khaliji dance, adding a lively cultural touch. During Ramadan or religious holidays, the entertainment is adjusted to comply with local laws, but the overall atmosphere remains festive.

Stargazing and Nighttime Magic

As night falls, the camp becomes a prime spot for stargazing. OceanAir Travels offers telescopes to better appreciate the clear desert sky, and many reviewers, like Stephen_S, found the experience to be “simply amazing.” It’s a peaceful, almost magical way to end the evening, especially if you’re a fan of celestial views.

How Long Does It Take?

The entire tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including pickup, travel, activities, and drop-off. This makes it a full but manageable evening out—perfect if you’re looking to combine culture with leisure. The tour typically starts with a pickup around mid-afternoon and returns to your hotel or port by early evening, giving you plenty of time for other Dubai adventures.

Authenticity and Variety: Unlike some more commercialized desert safaris, this experience emphasizes cultural activities like henna, falconry, and traditional dress-up, adding depth to your visit.

Quality and Value: With a price tag of $88 per person, the tour delivers a lot—long camel ride, camp activities, dinner, and entertainment—making it a good value, especially considering the positive reviews about the food and guides.

Scenic Sunset Views: The timing and setting mean you’ll get a stunning sunset backdrop, ideal for memorable photos.

Convenience: The included hotel and port transfers remove logistical headaches, letting you relax from start to finish.

This tour is perfect for culture enthusiasts who want more than just a picture in front of the dunes. If you’re seeking a family-friendly adventure with lots of interactive activities, it fits well. Travelers who enjoy good food, live entertainment, and authentic traditions will find plenty to love. It’s also ideal for those pressed for time but eager to experience Dubai’s desert in a meaningful way.

However, if you’re after adrenaline activities like dune bashing or prefer a more exclusive, less touristy vibe, this might not be your top choice. Also, keep in mind that some parts are busy, so patience and a sense of humor are handy.

This Sunset Camel Trek and Bedouin Camp experience offers a well-rounded, culturally rich look at Dubai’s desert. The combination of a scenic camel ride at sunset, interactive activities like henna and falconry, and a lively BBQ dinner makes it a compelling option for many travelers. The tour’s emphasis on tradition, comfort, and entertainment ensures an engaging evening that feels both authentic and fun.

Pricing is reasonable considering the range of experiences included, and the reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and delicious food. It’s especially suited for those who want to enjoy Dubai’s desert in a relaxed, immersive way, without sacrificing comfort or cultural insight.

Overall, if you’re after a memorable desert adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and engaging activities, this tour checks all the boxes. Just remember to book early—this popular experience fills up quickly!

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel and port pickup within 45 minutes of your selected departure time, making it very convenient.

How long does the camel ride last?
The camel or horse ride typically lasts around 40 minutes, allowing ample time to enjoy the dunes and sunset views.

What activities can I expect at the camp?
You can participate in henna painting, sample Arabic coffee and dates, enjoy falconry photos, feed camels, and try shisha. Live entertainment such as Tanura dance and Khaliji performances are also included.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the barbecue buffet dinner caters to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences.

Is the tour suitable during Ramadan?
During Ramadan and religious holidays, certain shows like Khaliji dance may be restricted, but Tanoura and fire shows are still available in the desert camp.

What should I wear?
Casual, loose-fitting clothing is recommended, especially in summer. A jacket might be needed in winter or during cooler evenings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this experience good value for money?
Absolutely. Considering the included activities, dinner, transportation, and guide service, many reviewers find it a worthwhile investment for an authentic desert adventure.

This tour captures a memorable slice of Dubai’s desert life while offering comfort and variety. Whether you’re seeking cultural insight, scenic beauty, or just a fun night out, it’s a well-reviewed choice that balances all those elements beautifully.