Dubai: Al Khayma Camp Experience with BBQ Dinner

Traveling to Dubai offers endless possibilities, but few experiences capture the essence of Arabian desert life quite like the Al Khayma Camp Experience. This tour promises an evening filled with delicious food, cultural shows, and stunning desert views, all wrapped into a well-organized package. We’ve gathered insights from hundreds of reviews and firsthand descriptions to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What makes this experience stand out? Travelers love the knowledgeable guides, the authentic atmosphere of the camp, and the variety of activities packed into the evening. But a few point out that the tour duration includes pickup and drop-off, which can mean a longer day than expected. This trip suits those looking to combine a relaxed cultural outing with fun activities in a beautiful desert setting.

Key Points

• Authentic desert ambiance with traditional Arabic decor and facilities.
• Diverse activities including camel rides, falconry, henna, and star gazing.
• High-quality food served from a Michelin-rated restaurant, offering Emirati, Moroccan, and Arabian cuisines.
• Expert guides and attentive staff enhance the experience, making it more personalized.
• Value for money given the range of activities, entertainment, and included meals.
• Ideal for families, couples, and small groups seeking a culturally rich desert adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Al Khayma Camp Experience?

This tour takes you out of Dubai’s bustling cityscape and into the iconic red dunes of the desert. It’s designed to be a comprehensive evening, combining culture, entertainment, and scenic views, all in one package. The experience is facilitated by OceanAir Travels, a reputable provider with consistently high ratings (4.9/5 from 863 reviews).

The tour typically includes hotel pickup and drop-off (if you select the transfer option), making it a hassle-free outing. The journey to the camp offers a glimpse of Dubai’s desert landscape, punctuated by some off-road excitement, as many reviewers mention bouncing over dunes or enjoying a dune bash with their guides.

The Camp: Setting the Scene

Upon arrival, you’re greeted with refreshments and traditional Arabic hospitality. The camp itself is designed to evoke a Bedouin-style environment, with shaded tents, cozy seating, and welcoming staff. Many reviewers highlight the attentiveness of the staff and the authentic decor that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a traditional Arabian setting.

Guests often mention the welcoming atmosphere—drinking Arabic coffee, munching on Luqaimat (sweet dumplings), and taking in the ambient lighting. The camp is also praised for being environmentally friendly, adding a touch of eco-consciousness to the experience.

Activities in the Desert

Camel Rides and Feeding

One of the first activities many guests try is the camel ride, often described as fun and gentle. Reviewers mention riding camels with beautiful desert scenery around them, and some appreciate the chance to capture memorable photos. Camel feeding is also available, allowing visitors to interact with these iconic animals.

A reviewer noted that individuals with back problems, disabilities, or aged 60+ are advised against camel riding, so plan accordingly. Many guests also enjoy simply strolling around the camp and soaking in the peaceful, panoramic views of the dunes.

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Cultural Shows and Entertainment

Expect a night full of cultural entertainment, including live performances such as a Mega Fire Show, Arabian Horse Show, Traditional Yola dance, and Falconry demonstrations. Several travelers praised the fire show for its spectacle of flames and coordination, with one reviewer mentioning it as a highlight of the evening.

Music and dance create a lively atmosphere, and some guests choose to relax at the shisha station or participate in henna tattoo sessions. Many walk away with beautiful, temporary body art and memories of this traditional art form.

Star Gazing with a High-Power Telescope

One of the most unique features is stargazing, facilitated by a high-powered telescope. Many reviews mention the clear night sky, with some lucky guests able to spot bright stars and planets like Jupiter. A reviewer noted that while some felt the telescope was not as powerful as expected, others still enjoyed the opportunity to connect with the cosmos in such a dramatic setting.

The Food: A Culinary Highlight

Dining at Al Khayma Camp is a major selling point. Catered by the Michelin Bib Gourmand-rated Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant, the BBQ dinner features authentic Emirati, Moroccan, and Arabian dishes. Guests often rave about the quality and variety—from grilled kebabs and fresh salads to traditional rice dishes and flavorful spices.

One reviewer described the buffet as “out of this world,” emphasizing the delicious, well-prepared food. The dinner is served with unlimited soft drinks and mineral water, allowing you to indulge without worry. Many guests find this aspect worth the price, especially considering the entertainment and activities included.

Special Notes on Food

While the buffet caters to a broad range of tastes, some mention that food might run out quickly during busy times, so arriving early or informing staff of your preferences could improve your experience. Alcoholic drinks are not included, and you might need to purchase these separately if desired.

The Overall Experience: What Sets It Apart

Many reviews emphasize the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Guides like Amr Sharaf, Humayun, and Anthony are frequently praised for their helpfulness, local insights, and attentiveness. Their tips—like best photo spots or explaining cultural significance—add a lot of value.

Guests also appreciate the seamless organization—from the pickup to the camp activities—making the evening flow smoothly. The well-maintained facilities and attentive staff ensure you’re comfortable and cared for throughout.

The Pace and Duration

The tour duration includes pickup and drop-off, so expect a longer evening—generally around 6-8 hours. While some reviews mention long travel times, most feel the experience is worth the wait. If you’re short on time, consider the option with transfers to avoid logistical planning.

Price & Value

At $59 per person, this experience offers excellent value given the array of activities, meals, and entertainment. While it’s not the cheapest desert tour available, reviewers agree that the quality and authenticity justify the price. For families or couples wanting a full cultural night out, this trip hits many marks.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed yet immersive taste of desert culture. It suits those who enjoy food and live entertainment, as well as stargazing in a scenic environment. It’s great for families, couples, small groups, and anyone curious about traditional Arabian life without the adrenaline of a high-octane safari.

Travelers seeking adventure like dune bashing or luxury experiences might look elsewhere, as this tour leans more toward authenticity and culture. Also, those with mobility issues or back problems should consider the camel ride advisories.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Al Khayma Camp Experience offers a comprehensive, authentic evening in Dubai’s desert. The high-quality food, entertainment, and guides’ expertise make it a memorable outing, especially if you appreciate cultural touches and scenic views.

It’s a great value for what you get, with activities that appeal to a broad audience—from camel rides and falconry to live fire shows and star gazing. The friendly staff and well-organized setup ensure a smooth experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment.

For those looking to experience Dubai’s desert beyond just a quick photo, this tour provides a well-rounded evening that combines tradition, fun, and breathtaking landscapes in one package.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, if you select the transfer option, you’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, loose clothing for summer, and long sleeves or jackets during winter. Don’t forget sunglasses and sun hats for the daytime.

Are there any activities that aren’t suitable for everyone?
Camel riding is not recommended for people with back problems, disabilities, or those aged 60+. The tour is mainly suitable for most able-bodied travelers.

Can I buy alcohol during the tour?
Alcoholic drinks are not included. You may purchase them separately at the camp’s shisha station or nearby outlets.

How long does the tour last?
Including pickup and drop-off, expect around 6-8 hours, depending on your location and group size.

What is the cost of this experience?
The tour costs about $59 per person, offering a range of activities, entertainment, and a gourmet BBQ dinner.

In essence, the Dubai Al Khayma Camp Experience with BBQ Dinner provides a genuine taste of Arabian desert life in a friendly, scenic setting. It’s ideal for those wanting a fun, cultural adventure that doesn’t compromise on comfort or quality.

You can check availability for your dates here: