Abu Dhabi: Desert Safari with BBQ, Belly & Tannura Dance

Experiencing a desert safari outside Abu Dhabi is often high on travelers’ wish lists, and based on reviews, this tour from Emirates Tours & Safari offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Arabian adventure. From the adrenaline rush of dune bashing to cultural entertainment under the stars, it’s designed for those seeking both excitement and a glimpse into local traditions.

What really makes this experience shine are the knowledgeable guides who keep safety and fun in mind, the stunning sunset views, and the delicious BBQ dinner that comes with a variety of performances. The only thing to consider? The tour lasts long enough to require comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing—so pack accordingly. This trip suits anyone eager for adventure, culture, and a good value night out in the desert.

Key Points

• Excellent Value: At $80 per person, this tour packs in a lot — from thrilling dune bashing to cultural performances.
• Authentic Experiences: Camel rides, henna painting, traditional attire, and falcon photo ops make it more than just a thrill ride.
• Skilled Guides: Reviewers praise drivers like Faisal, Rashid, and Unni for their professionalism and friendliness.
• Stunning Scenery: Sunset views over the dunes are frequently highlighted as a breathtaking highlight.
• Live Entertainment: Belly dancing, Tanoura dance, and fire shows add an authentic cultural flavor.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make it easy, plus the camp offers good facilities and a relaxing atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on this Desert Adventure

This full evening tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup, often praised for punctuality, which sets the tone for a well-organized experience. From there, your group heads into the desert for the star of the day: dune bashing. Expect an adrenaline-pumping 4×4 ride over the towering dunes, with drivers like Faisal, Rashid, or Sultan showing impressive skill—reviewers mention their professionalism, friendliness, and ability to adjust for comfort and safety. One guest noted, “Faisel was our guide who was very friendly and experienced in desert driving… I have seen such driving skills over the desert in movies only,” highlighting how the drive feels both exciting and safe.

Along the way, you’ll pause to take photo opportunities that showcase the vastness of the desert and capture the breathtaking sunset views. Many reviewers loved the chance to snap pictures in the golden hour, describing it as “mind-blowing” and “beautiful.”

Next, the tour visits a camel farm, where you can learn about these majestic animals, a favorite for many guests. You’ll also have the option for a short camel ride, which is often described as fun and authentic. Sandboarding on the dunes is included too, providing a chance for some playful, adrenaline-filled moments. Reviewers frequently mention how much fun they had, with one describing it as “such a funny and entertaining activity that I could do it for hours.”

The Bedouin Camp: Cultural and Culinary Highlights

The highlight for many guests is the camp experience. Once you arrive, you’ll be welcomed with traditional Arabic coffee, tea, dates, and snacks, setting a warm, hospitable tone. The camp atmosphere is often described as clean, well-arranged, and comfortable, with facilities that make it easy to relax after the more energetic activities.

Here, the experience gets more cultural. You can try henna painting, which is a favorite for those wanting a keepsake of the trip. Many reviewers enjoy dressing in traditional Arabian attire for fun photos, adding a playful and immersive touch. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a chance to pose with a falcon, which is often described as a memorable photo opportunity—subject to availability, of course.

As the evening progresses, a BBQ buffet dinner is served under the stars, often praised for its quality and generous portions. Guests often mention that the food exceeded expectations, with some describing it as “delicious” and “better than expected,” including options like grilled meats, salads, and local delicacies. The live entertainment, including belly dancing, Tanoura spinning dance, and a fire show, elevates the atmosphere, making it more than just a meal.

Many guests find it relaxing to smoke shisha while star gazing, with peaceful desert nights creating a perfect backdrop. The performances are generally highly praised, with reviewers noting how energetic and lively the shows are, adding an authentic touch of Arabian culture.

Extra Activities & Personal Touches

For those wanting to add even more thrill, optional quad biking is available at an additional cost. Some reviewers mention enjoying quad biking as a great way to zoom over the dunes at high speed, although it’s not included in the base price.

The tour’s small group size and the attentive guides, like Nassim, Gino, and Ikbar, are consistently praised for their professionalism and friendliness. Guests feel well looked after, and many mention how these guides go out of their way to accommodate special requests and ensure safety.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour costs around $80 per person, which many reviewers agree offers great value considering the variety of activities, dinner, and entertainment provided.
• The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, with pickup and drop-off included, making it a convenient all-in-one evening.
• Weather-appropriate clothing is essential — think long pants, closed-toe shoes, and layers for chilly desert nights.
• For those prone to motion sickness, reviewers suggest bringing remedies, as dune bashing can be quite bumpy.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or heart conditions, based on safety advisories.
• Ramadan may restrict belly dancing performances, so check ahead if this is a key part of your experience.

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Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews

Guests frequently highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides. One reviewer said, “Razak was our guide for the day, and I enjoyed the ride a lot,” while another appreciated the safe and skillful driving of Faisal. This personal touch makes a difference, especially when navigating the dunes or explaining local customs.

Many also emphasize the quality of the food at the camp, describing it as “really good” and “better than expected,” which is impressive given the outdoor setting. The entertainment is another standout, with guests mentioning fire shows and dance performances that kept everyone captivated.

The photos taken during sunset or with traditional costumes often become keepsakes, as guests enjoy capturing the vibrant desert scenery. Several mention how the desert night sky is perfect for star gazing, adding a peaceful ending to an action-packed evening.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Abu Dhabi desert safari offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation at a very reasonable price. The activities are accessible for most, but it’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers can all find something to love here.

The price point is attractive considering the full range of activities, entertainment, and food included. If you’re looking for a fun, authentic, and well-organized desert experience, this tour delivers on multiple fronts.

However, remember that it’s quite a long evening, so patience and comfort are advisable. Dress for the desert climate, and be ready for a mix of adrenaline and relaxation — it’s a well-rounded night out that truly captures the spirit of Arabian hospitality and adventure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off provided?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which many guests found very convenient and saved them from logistical worries.

What should I bring for the desert safari?
Long pants, weather-appropriate clothing, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Bringing a jacket for chilly desert nights and motion sickness remedies if prone to dizziness is also advised.

Can I participate in quad biking?
Quad biking is available at an additional cost. It’s a popular optional activity for guests wanting to experience even more excitement on the dunes.

Are there any cultural activities included?
Yes, you can try henna painting, dress in traditional Arabic attire, and take photos with a falcon—all designed to enhance culture.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience generally lasts around 6 hours, including pickup, activities, dinner, and entertainment.

Is this tour suitable during Ramadan?
Belly dancing is usually unavailable during Ramadan, but other parts of the experience like dune bashing and dinner typically proceed as usual.

What is the value for money like?
Most guests agree that at $80, the tour offers excellent value considering the range of activities, food, and entertainment packed into the evening.

Final Words

For anyone visiting Abu Dhabi looking for a fun-filled, culturally rich, and value-packed adventure, this desert safari ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for those eager to experience the desert’s thrill, enjoy delicious food, and soak up traditional performances—all within a comfortable, well-organized setting.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a cultural explorer, or just in search of a memorable night under the stars, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Arabian hospitality and desert charm. Just remember to come prepared for an evening of fun, adventure, and a few moments of quiet awe at the desert’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: