Dubai Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner & Shows from Ras Al Khaimah: A Complete Guide
If you’re looking to escape the city’s glitter and explore the vast, golden sands of the desert, this Dubai Desert Safari from Ras Al Khaimah offers a well-rounded, immersive experience. From exhilarating dune bashing to cultural shows and a delicious BBQ under the stars, it promises a memorable evening at a reasonable price.
What makes this tour stand out? We particularly appreciate the comprehensive activities, the authentic Bedouin atmosphere, and the value for money considering all the included entertainment and food. The only potential consideration? Since it’s a shared group experience, some travelers might find the timing or group size less private than private tours. Still, it’s perfect for those eager to enjoy a full desert adventure with minimal hassle.
This tour is ideal for travelers craving a balance of adventure, culture, and entertainment—especially since it’s suitable for most age groups and includes convenient hotel pick-up. If you’re after a lively, fun-filled desert outing with plenty of photo opportunities, this could be your perfect match.
Key Points
- All-in-One Experience: Combines dune bashing, camel rides, live shows, and a BBQ dinner.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Enjoy Bedouin traditions with henna painting, shisha, and traditional performances.
- Convenience: Hotel pick-up and drop-off make it easy to join without planning transportation.
- Value for Money: At $93 per person, it offers a full evening of entertainment and activities.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with children needing to be accompanied by adults.
- Booking Ahead Recommended: Most travelers book about 19 days in advance, indicating high demand.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
Starting the Journey: Pickup and Transportation
The adventure begins at 1:30 pm with hotel pickup from Ras Al Khaimah, delivered via shared 4WD vehicle. This mode of transport is practical, especially since it allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive without worrying about navigation. With most bookings made about 19 days ahead, it shows a consistent popularity, and booking early is advisable to secure your spot.
Dune Bashing: Thrills in the Red Dunes
Once you arrive at the desert, the highlight for many is dune bashing—an adrenaline-pumping ride over the steep sands in a 4WD. This activity isn’t just about the thrill; it offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially at sunset. According to reviewers, the ride can be exhilarating, with some sharing stories of the driver, Mohammad, who expertly handled the vehicle, making sure everyone felt safe while enjoying the thrill.
Sunset Camel Ride: A Serene Perspective
After the dune bashing, you’ll be offered a short camel ride at sunset—an iconic desert activity that adds a touch of tradition and tranquility. Reviewers mention that this ride can be repeated if desired, allowing you plenty of time to take photos and soak in the serene desert views. It’s a relaxing contrast to the adrenaline of the dune bashing, giving you a moment to breathe and enjoy the landscape.
Activities at the Desert Camp
As the sun dips below the horizon, guests are transported to a desert camp. Here, the experience gets more cultural, with options like henna painting and shisha smoking. While the opportunity to dress in local costumes for photos was unavailable at the time of some reviews (due to COVID-19 protocols), the other activities still provide authentic touches.
Live Shows: Belly Dancing, Tanura, and Fire Performances
The camp features lively live entertainment—belly dance, Tanura spinning, and fiery fire shows. Guests frequently praise the quality and energy of these performances, which add a festive, almost magical vibe. One reviewer specifically called the organization and entertainment “perfect,” despite some weather challenges during a desert stop, highlighting the professionalism of the performers.
Dinner Under the Stars
The evening concludes with an abundant buffet dinner, featuring both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The BBQ is self-service, and unlimited soft drinks, tea, coffee, and water are included, providing excellent value. Guests appreciate the casual, relaxed atmosphere of dining outdoors with starry skies overhead, making it a fitting end to a day of adventure.
What’s Included and What to Consider
The package covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, dune bashing, camel rides, henna, shisha, live shows, and the buffet dinner—offering a comprehensive experience at a fair price. Extra activities like quad biking are available at an additional cost, so if you’re craving even more adventure, booking ahead is recommended.
The tour operates on a shared basis, which keeps costs down but may mean less privacy. Most travelers find the group size manageable, with a maximum of around 200 participants.
Notes on Timing and Flexibility
The start time at 1:30 pm provides ample time to enjoy the activities without feeling rushed. The tour runs approximately seven hours, meaning you’re back around 8:30 pm, leaving plenty of time to continue exploring Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah afterward.
Weather and Cancellation Policies
Since the experience depends on weather conditions, poor weather might result in cancellations—something that has happened in the past (like heavy rain and hail). However, the policy offers full refunds or the chance to reschedule, which adds peace of mind. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.
Authentic Insights from Reviewers
The glowing feedback—rated 5.0/5 by 30 reviews—reflects high satisfaction. One guest called it “Muss man erlebt haben” (“a must-have experience”) and praised the organization and food. Even weather hiccups, like a storm during a quad stop, didn’t detract from the overall positive experience, with reviewers emphasizing the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, especially Mohammad.
Another reviewer appreciated the authenticity of the cultural shows and the beautiful sunset views, which add a memorable touch. The buffet dinner is often highlighted as “perfect,” with a good variety of options and a casual, outdoor setting.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This desert safari from Ras Al Khaimah offers a mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment, making it particularly suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers who want a full desert experience without the hassle of planning multiple activities separately. It’s an ideal choice for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, stunning scenery, and authentic traditions, all bundled into one affordable package.
While not a private tour, the well-organized nature ensures most travelers will find the experience fulfilling and fun. If you’re after a value-packed, lively desert adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and entertainment, this tour checks all the boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Ras Al Khaimah hotels via shared 4WD.
What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 1:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the activities.
How long does the safari last?
The whole experience lasts approximately 7 hours, ending around 8:30 pm.
Are children allowed?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.
Can I do a private transfer instead of shared?
Yes, private VIP or upgraded transfers are available if you contact the provider in advance.
What activities are included?
Dune bashing, sand boarding, sunset camel ride, henna painting, shisha smoking, and live shows like belly dance, Tanura, and fire acts.
Is dinner included?
Yes, a buffet BBQ dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options is included, along with unlimited soft drinks, tea, and coffee.
What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing suitable for outdoor activities, and consider bringing a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.
Are quad bikes part of the package?
No, quad biking is available at extra cost and requires advance booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled later, the full amount is non-refundable.
To sum it up, this Dubai desert safari from Ras Al Khaimah strikes a wonderful balance between adventure, culture, and entertainment at an accessible price point. Whether you’re after thrill, tradition, or simply a memorable outdoor evening, it’s worth considering—just be sure to book early and come prepared for a lively night under the stars.