Premium Desert Safari Dubai with BBQ and ATV

Dubai’s desert landscape is iconic, and a desert safari is often at the top of travelers’ bucket lists. This particular tour, offered by Royal Planet Tourism, promises a blend of adventure, culture, and culinary delights—all rolled into one approximately 6 to 8-hour experience. While we haven’t personally joined, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-organized, authentic adventure that’s hard to beat for the price—just over $34 per person.

What makes this tour stand out for us? First, the diverse range of activities—from adrenaline-pumping dune bashing to relaxing camel rides. Second, the live cultural entertainment in the camp, including belly dancing and Tanoura spinning. Third, the value factor—all of this, plus a tasty BBQ dinner, at an accessible price point. On the flip side, it’s worth considering that alcoholic beverages and quad biking aren’t included**—for some, that might be a downside if they’re looking for a fully VIP experience.

Designed for adventure seekers, culture lovers, and budget-conscious travelers, this tour suits those who want a comprehensive desert outing without breaking the bank. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of what Dubai’s desert has to offer—whether you’re first-timers or looking to add some excitement to your trip.

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Key Points

Affordable price point offers excellent value for a full day of activities.
Experienced guides and staff are frequently praised for their professionalism and friendliness.
Variety of activities: dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and more.
Authentic cultural entertainment with belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and fire shows.
Includes a traditional BBQ dinner, with options for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.
Customization options like traditional costumes and henna painting enhance the cultural feel.

A Balanced Look at the Dubai Desert Safari Experience

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The Itinerary: From Dunes to Dinners and Dances

This tour kicks off at Lahbab, a well-known desert area famous for its towering dunes. The main thrill here is the 4×4 dune bashing—a rollercoaster ride over the golden hills that promises to get your adrenaline pumping. Reviewers like those who traveled in June mention that even in the hotter months, it’s not overly oppressive, thanks to the early start and the breeze from the vehicle.

After the dust settles, you’ll get to try sandboarding, a fun activity that simulates surfing on the dunes. It’s suitable for beginners, and many find it adds an extra layer of excitement. One reviewer shared, “It’s like surfing, but on the dunes,” which captures the vibe perfectly.

Next, the camel ride offers a slower, more traditional way to experience the desert. Reviewers like the ones quoting Naveed, the guide, mention how peaceful and scenic this part of the tour is, providing a nice contrast to the high-energy dune bashing.

As the sun dips, it’s time for some great photo opportunities. The desert’s sunset views are widely praised, with one reviewer mentioning, “the views and the experience itself was amazing.” Expect golden hues and wide-open skies that make for memorable snapshots.

The Bedouin-Style Camp & Cultural Entertainment

Arriving at the authentic camp, you’ll notice the cozy, traditional setup that mimics Bedouin life, offering a genuine cultural vibe. Here, the focus shifts from adrenaline to entertainment.

Guests often mention the live belly dancing and Tanoura spinning shows, which add a hypnotic, lively atmosphere. One reviewer describes the performances as “nicely dance,” emphasizing the skill and energy of the performers. The fire show is another highlight, with flames dancing under the stars, creating a dramatic backdrop for your evening.

Food and Additional Activities

The BBQ dinner is a key part of the experience. Featuring a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, it provides plenty of options to satisfy different tastes. Reviewers frequently praise the food quality, noting it’s flavorful and well-prepared, with some mentioning the dishes are “very good” and “delicious.”

Beyond the meal, the camp offers a variety of additional experiences. Guests can try henna painting with skillful artists, relax with shisha in designated areas, and don traditional Arabic costumes for photos. These small touches elevate the cultural authenticity of the tour.

The Guides: Who Makes It Special?

Many reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. Naveed, in particular, gets multiple shout-outs for his helpfulness, fluency in English, and photography skills. One reviewer remarked that Naveed was “accommodating and a professional photographer,” which means you’ll likely come away with some great souvenirs. Other guides, like Sajjad and Mudassar Hussain, are also praised for their kindness and attentiveness, often making guests feel like family.

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Price & Value

At just over $34 per person, this tour provides a remarkable amount of value. For that price, you get a full day of exciting activities, cultural entertainment, a hearty dinner, and professional guides. This makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive desert experience without splurging on premium packages that might include alcohol or luxury accommodations.

Practical Tips & Considerations

Timing: The tour starts at 1:00 pm. Arriving on time ensures you get the full experience, including sunset photos.
Group Size: With a maximum of 400 travelers, expect a lively, social atmosphere but also ample opportunities for personal attention.
Inclusions & Exclusions: Alcoholic beverages and quad biking aren’t included, so if you want to add these, consider doing so separately.
Weather: Confirmations are weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.
Accessibility: The pickup service makes it easier for travelers staying in central Dubai, and the tour is suitable for most ages.

Why We Think This Tour Is a Great Deal

This desert safari strikes a good balance between adventure, culture, and relaxation. The dune bashing and sandboarding are perfect for thrill-seekers, while the camel rides and camp performances satisfy those craving a taste of Arabian traditions. The value for money is evident, especially given the variety of included activities, delicious food, and the professionalism of guides like Naveed and Sajjad.

The reviews consistently praise the friendly guides and the stunning scenery, which makes this tour stand out. Many guests mention how their guides went beyond expectations, with some even offering professional photography tips, ensuring you leave with not just memories but also quality pictures.

If you’re looking for an authentic desert experience that won’t drain your budget, this tour offers a comprehensive, fun-filled day with plenty of opportunities for great photos, delicious food, and cultural insight.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This safari is ideal for first-time visitors to Dubai, families, and groups wanting a combination of adventure and cultural exposure. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a full-day experience that’s both fun and meaningful. Budget travelers will appreciate the affordability without sacrificing quality, while those seeking a lively, authentic desert night will find the entertainment engaging.

People who love guided experiences, friendly staff, and a variety of activities—like henna painting, shisha, and belly dancing—will find this tour hits the right notes. It’s also suitable for those who want to avoid the hassle of planning multiple activities separately, as everything is organized for you in one package.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes dune bashing in a 4×4, sandboarding, camel rides, sunset photography, traditional costumes for photos, henna painting, shisha, cultural entertainment (belly dance, Tanoura dance, fire show), and a BBQ dinner.

Are drinks like alcohol included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour.

Can I try quad biking?
Quad biking is not included in this package, but it might be available as an optional extra outside of this tour.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 1:00 pm, so plan to be ready for pickup around that time.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable for children, especially since it offers a mix of gentle activities and exciting rides. However, parents should supervise children during dune bashing and other active parts.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts roughly 6 to 8 hours, depending on group size and weather conditions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, modest clothing suitable for warm weather, with layers if you’re visiting in winter. Don’t forget sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.

Final Thoughts

This desert safari by Royal Planet Tourism offers a lively, authentic taste of Dubai’s desert life at an accessible price. With a mix of adventure, culture, and great food, it’s well-suited to those wanting an all-in-one experience. The guides, especially Naveed, elevate the journey with their friendliness and professionalism, making guests feel well cared for.

While it doesn’t include luxury extras like alcohol or quad biking, the overall value and variety of activities make it a solid choice for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike. Whether you’re after stunning sunset photos, a fun ride over the dunes, or a taste of Bedouin culture, this tour delivers with a warm, lively atmosphere.