Camel Ride, Dune Bashing & Live Shows with BBQ Dinner in Dubai

Travelers craving a taste of the Dubai desert will find this tour offers a well-rounded adventure packed with thrills and authentic cultural touches. From exhilarating dune bashing to relaxing camel rides, and ending with captivating live entertainment and a hearty BBQ dinner, this experience hits all the right notes.

What we particularly love about this tour is its blend of adrenaline and leisure, the knowledgeable guides who really make the trip special, and the stunning sunset views that provide perfect photo opportunities. The price of $75 per person feels reasonable given the variety of activities and inclusions, especially when you consider the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

However, a possible consideration is the tour’s duration—about 6 and a half hours—which might be long for travelers on a tight schedule. Still, for those looking for a complete desert experience, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers eager to explore Dubai’s iconic desert landscape in a safe, engaging way.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Includes dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and live entertainment.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubai or Sharjah.
• Cultural Touches: Traditional desert camp with BBQ dinner and authentic performances.
• Guided Adventure: Knowledgeable guides help ensure safety and fun.
• Valuable Price Point: At $75, the tour offers a lot for the price.
• Limited Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages are available at extra cost, but not included.

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

The Itinerary – From Thrills to Chills

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Dubai or Sharjah around 3:00 pm, making it easy to start without hassle. Once transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll head straight to the desert, where the adventure begins.

Dune Bashing is the headline act—lasting about 30 minutes—where expert drivers like Akbar Ali and Salam take the wheel of a Toyota luxury 4×4, navigating the towering dunes with skill and a dash of daring. Reviewers mention these guides go “out of their way” to make the ride memorable and ensure safety, which is reassuring when you’re bouncing over those sandy hills at speed. Expect sensations that range from stomach-flipping to exhilarating, a hallmark of Dubai’s desert safaris.

Camel riding follows—lasting around 30 minutes—giving you a chance to slow down and soak in the desert’s natural beauty. Reviewers particularly appreciated the opportunity to photograph the scenery during the camel trek, with one mentioning how the guides help you “photoshop in the middle of the desert,” suggesting some fun photo ops at sunset.

Next, you’ll have a chance to try sandboarding—a fun, snowboarding-inspired activity that lets you slide down dunes. While not everyone may master it on the first try, the experience is described as “crazy awesome” by previous guests, adding a playful element to your desert adventure.

Sunset & Scenic Views

One of the most cherished moments is the sunset stop at the high dunes. Here, you’ll witness the sun dip behind the dunes, casting warm hues across the landscape. Reviewers highlight that this view is “breathtaking” and makes for perfect photos. It’s a peaceful, reflective pause in the midst of all the excitement.

The Desert Camp & Evening Entertainment

The journey ends at a traditional desert camp where, after sunset, you’ll indulge in a BBQ dinner buffet. Options include both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, ensuring there’s something for all. The food quality is generally praised as “delicious,” especially after a day of adventure.

The camp is alive with live entertainment—two belly dance shows, a Tanoura dance, and a fire show—that add a cultural flair to your evening. Reviewers find these performances mesmerizing, with one noting that guides “explain everything verby,” enriching the experience. You can relax, eat, and enjoy the atmosphere, making it a fitting end to an action-filled day.

Practical Considerations

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, making long drives comfortable, and a mobile ticket for easy access. While alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, they are not included in the price, so those seeking a drink should plan accordingly.

The tour is priced at $75 per person, which covers most activities, dinner, entertainment, and logistics. Comparing this with other desert tours, the value is quite competitive, especially given the personalized guide service and the variety of activities packed into the roughly 6.5-hour window.

The Real Experience: Authentic, Fun, and Well-Organized

The reviews reveal that guides like Mujahid Hussain and others go beyond just driving—they are engaging, informative, and attentive to guests’ safety and enjoyment. Many travelers note how guides “explain everything verby,” making the experience more enriching.

A frequent praise point is stunning views—both of the dunes and the sunset—making for memorable photos and peaceful moments amidst the thrill. The live shows and camp ambiance add a layer of cultural authenticity that elevates this from just a desert safari to a truly memorable experience.

Additional Tips

• The tour starts at 3:00 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
• For those interested in quad biking, rentals are available at an extra cost ($41 for 30 minutes), but this isn’t included.
• Group sizes are capped at 100, but the actual feeling is usually more intimate, especially with guides who pay personal attention.
• The cancellation policy is flexible—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance—ideal for travelers with uncertain schedules or weather concerns.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour hits the sweet spot for those wanting a balanced mix of adventure, cultural entertainment, and relaxation. Families will appreciate the variety of activities suitable for all ages, while couples will enjoy the romantic sunset and stunning desert scenery. Solo travelers can meet like-minded explorers, and everyone benefits from the knowledgeable guides and well-coordinated logistics.

If you’re after an immersive, fun day that captures the essence of Dubai’s desert, offers good value, and provides plenty of photo-worthy moments, this tour is a strong contender.

The Sum Up

This Dubai desert experience provides an energetic yet authentic day out. With activities like dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and captivating live shows, it offers a full spectrum of desert adventures in a single package. The addition of a traditional BBQ dinner and sunset views makes it a memorable, well-rounded outing.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of safety, entertainment, and cultural authenticity. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise are often highlighted in reviews, ensuring you feel confident and well-informed throughout.

While it’s a long day, the variety and quality of experiences make it excellent value. It’s best suited to travelers looking for a lively, engaging way to appreciate Dubai’s desert landscape, especially those who want a mix of adrenaline and culture in one trip.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 3:00 pm, so plan to be ready for pickup around that time.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your Dubai or Sharjah hotel are part of the package.

How long does the dune bashing last?
Dune bashing lasts approximately 30 minutes, with experienced guides ensuring safety and fun.

Can I participate in sandboarding?
Absolutely. Sandboarding is included, and many guests find it a fun addition, even if it takes a few tries to master.

Are vegetarian options available for dinner?
Yes, the BBQ dinner buffet includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

What live entertainment is included?
You’ll see two belly dance shows, a Tanoura dance, and a fire show, all designed to showcase local culture.

Is alcoholic beverage included?
No, alcohol is available for purchase at the camp but is not included in the tour price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for outdoor activities; don’t forget sunglasses and a hat for sun protection.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families, but check with your guide if you have young kids.

This desert adventure in Dubai promises a lively, memorable day—one that captures both the thrill and beauty of the region. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or seeking a peaceful sunset, you’ll find something to love here.