If you’re heading to Dubai and craving an authentic desert adventure with a touch of luxury, this desert safari ticks all the boxes. With a stellar 4.9-star rating from over 6,000 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this tour memorable and worth the price—just $25 per person for a truly comprehensive experience.
What we love about this safari is the balanced mix of adrenaline and relaxation: thrilling dune bashing, scenic sunset stops, and a delicious VIP BBQ dinner. Plus, the optional activities like quad biking and camel rides mean you can tailor the experience to suit your energy level and interests. One potential consideration is that quad biking is self-driven and at your own risk, so if you’re not comfortable with self-navigation or have young children, it’s worth planning accordingly. This tour suits those looking for a fun, authentic, and value-packed day out in the desert.
Key Points
- Affordable luxury: At just $25, this tour offers a lot of value, including transportation, activities, and entertainment.
- Well-organized experience: From hotel pickup to drop-off, the process runs smoothly with attentive guides.
- Variety of activities: Including dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, and optional quad biking—perfect for thrill-seekers and culture lovers alike.
- Authentic entertainment: Traditional shows like belly dancing and Tanura performances add a cultural touch.
- Flexible options: Choose between 4-hour and 7-hour tours, with the longer option adding a visit to a desert camp with VIP service, henna, and a BBQ dinner.
- Highly praised guides: Multiple reviews mention guides like Sohair, Malik, and Shahzad for their professionalism, friendliness, and local knowledge.
What to Expect from the Dubai Desert Safari
This tour starts with a hotel pickup in an air-conditioned 4WD vehicle, setting the tone for a comfortable journey. Whether you opt for the 4-hour or the extended 7-hour experience, the day begins with a scenic drive out to the Al Lahbab red dunes—a landscape famous for its striking, deep reddish sands.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dubai
Dune Bashing and Sunset Views
The core of the safari is the 40-50 minute dune bashing, an exhilarating ride that makes you feel like you’re on a roller coaster in the desert. Reviewers have praised guides like Shaukat and Najeeb for their skillful driving, making dune bashing both exciting and safe. One guest exclaimed, “Malik was awesome, he did great on dunes and also took great pictures,” highlighting how guides often double as photographers.
A sunset stop offers incredible photo opportunities, with many guests commenting on how gorgeous the desert views are as the sun dips. This is a perfect chance to snap some memorable photos—some guides even stop at “the perfect scenic spots” for capturing the moment.
Optional Quad Biking and Camel Rides
At the halfway point, you might choose to try quad biking, a self-driving activity that many reviewers say is a highlight. Participants can take control of their own quad bikes, with safety features in place—like roll bars, seat belts, GPS, and a first aid kit. However, quad biking is at your own risk and only suitable for guests over 3 years old (children under 3 are not permitted). Guides like Hammad and Shahzad are frequently praised for their friendly, professional approach, making sure everyone feels comfortable.
A camel ride is also often part of the tour, with many guests requesting multiple rides or henna tattoos. One reviewer mentioned that “you can repeat camel rides as per request,” and guides are happy to accommodate.
Sandboarding and Photo Opportunities
Before heading to the camp, expect a sandboarding session—a fun and unique way to experience the dunes. Many guests have described it as “harder than it looks” but ultimately very rewarding. Guides are attentive, helping with techniques and capturing photos, ensuring you leave with plenty of great shots.
More Great Tours NearbyDesert Camp Experience and Entertainment
The second part of the longer 7-hour tour takes you to a desert camp, where traditional Arabic coffee, Lugamat (a sweet), and henna tattoos await. The camp setting is often described as “a hidden gem,” providing a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline of the dunes.
Here, you can hop on a camel, wear traditional Arabic dress for photos, or simply relax. Many reviews highlight the friendly guides like Jabar and Shahzad, who make sure everyone’s needs are met—whether it’s a quick photo, a refreshing drink, or custom activities.
Enjoying two wheels? We've reviewed these other cycling options in Dubai
- Red Dune Safari With Quad Bike & Sandboarding
- Morning Dune Bashing With Quaid Bike And Camel Ride
- Dubai Desert Safari with Quad Bike, Camel Ride, Dinner and Shows
- Sunset Quad Bike Safari With Camel Trek, Live Shows and Dinner
- Sunset Quad Bike Tour Dubai (Deep desert ride , sunset in desert)
- Dubai Morning Desert Safari with Quad Biking & More Activities
VIP BBQ Dinner and Cultural Shows
The VIP dinner service is a standout feature, with guests enjoying private tables, unlimited soft drinks, and a variety of kebabs, hummus, and salads. The food is praised for its deliciousness and generous portions, often described as “better than expected” for the price.
The evening shows—belly dancing and Tanura performances—offer a lively cultural touch. Reviewers like Ali and Zahoor rave about the professionalism and energy of the performers, adding to the overall festive atmosphere.
How Everything Comes Together
The tour’s efficiency and attention to detail have been widely appreciated. Guests mention the prompt hotel pickups, smooth transportation, and guides who share interesting insights about Dubai and the desert. For example, Sohair’s storytelling added extra value for many, making the drive out more engaging.
Duration and Flexibility
With options for 4 or 7 hours, travelers can choose a shorter, more budget-friendly adventure or go for the full experience with VIP treatment, camp activities, and a longer dinner. The 7-hour tour is especially praised for its immersive desert camp, where the combination of traditional entertainment and quality food creates a memorable evening.
Value for Money
At just $25 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—comparable or even better than many more expensive options. The reviews consistently mention “great value for the price”, especially considering the inclusion of activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, and the VIP BBQ dinner.
Many guests feel that the quality of guides like Malik and Shahzad elevates the experience, turning a fun day into a truly unforgettable adventure. The professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge of guides contribute significantly to the high ratings.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Comfortable clothes are recommended since you’ll be in the desert sun and sand.
- Quad biking is self-driven and not covered by insurance, so exercise caution if you’re new to riding.
- Children over 3 years can enjoy most activities, but kids under 3 aren’t permitted in quad biking.
- Luggage or large bags aren’t allowed, so pack light.
- Bring your camera or smartphone—the sunset, dunes, and camp performances are very photogenic.
- Optional activities like shisha smoking or larger henna designs may incur extra charges.
Summary: Who Is This Safari Best For?
This tour is an ideal pick for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a well-rounded desert adventure without breaking the bank. It suits adventure lovers who want dune bashing and sandboarding, as well as those craving cultural experiences with traditional shows and authentic food. The professional guides and seamless logistics** make it a reliable choice, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of the desert.
If you’re after a fun, engaging, and value-packed excursion that combines adventure, culture, and comfort, this safari offers all of that—and much more.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or selected location within Dubai.
What activities are available?
You can enjoy dune bashing, sandboarding, quad biking (if selected), camel rides, henna tattoos, and traditional shows.
How long does the tour last?
You can choose between a 4-hour or a 7-hour experience, with the longer option including a desert camp visit.
Is quad biking safe?
Quad biking is self-driven and taken at your own risk. Guides like Hammad and Shahzad are praised for their professionalism and safety-conscious approach.
Are there age restrictions for activities?
Children under 3 years aren’t permitted in quad biking. Other activities are suitable for most age groups, but always check specific requirements.
What’s included in the VIP BBQ dinner?
A private table with unlimited soft drinks, kebabs, hummus, salads, and traditional desserts like Lugamat.
Are shows and entertainment included?
Yes, traditional belly dancing and Tanura shows are part of the evening entertainment, especially on the longer tour.
Can I customize the experience?
Yes, you can opt to include or exclude activities like shisha, quad biking, and VIP services depending on your preference.
Is the experience suitable during Ramadan?
Government rulings may stop camp entertainment at any time, and no live entertainment or alcohol is available during Ramadan.
What should I bring?
Wear comfortable, lightweight clothes, and bring your camera. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are also recommended.
This desert safari from Dubai provides a thorough, authentic taste of what makes desert adventures special—thrilling activities, cultural entertainment, and incredible views—all packed into an affordable, well-organized experience that’s highly praised by travelers. Perfect for those wanting a memorable day in the sands without the hassle or excessive cost.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Safari Adventures in Dubai
More Private Tours in Dubai
More Tour Reviews in Dubai
Still browsing? Here are more Dubai experiences we've covered recently
- Dubai Photographer
- Dubai: Marina Sightseeing on Yacht with Breakfast
- Dubai: Instagrammable Yacht Tour with Drinks & Ain/JBR Views
- Dubai: Full-Day Private Car and Driver Hire
- Dubai Marina Yacht Tour: Ain Wheel, JBR & Harbour in 1 Hour
- Dubai: Desert Flying Dress Photoshoot
- Dubai: Madame Tussauds Adult General Entry Ticket
- Dubai: Desert Safari, Quad Bike, Camel Ride and Sandboarding
- Dubai: The Lost Chambers Aquarium Atlantis Diving Experience
- Dubai City: Full Day Private Tour
- Dubai: Private Dune Buggy, Camel Ride, and Sand Boarding!
- From Dubai: Full Day City Tour, Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan