Desert Safari, 60-Min Self-drive ATV, Camel ride, Shows, Dinner

If you’re looking for a desert adventure that combines adrenaline, culture, and entertainment, this Dubai desert safari offers just that. From the moment you start, you’ll find yourself in a world of golden dunes, vibrant performances, and authentic cuisine—all wrapped into one packed experience. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a well-rounded option that balances thrill with culture.

What makes this safari stand out? First, the self-drive ATV experience promises the chance to take control of your adventure. Second, the live shows—featuring belly dancing, Tanura, and fire dancing—add a lively, authentic atmosphere. Lastly, the dining experience offers a generous buffet with barbecue, salads, and desserts, perfect for winding down under the stars. That said, it’s not without some considerations; for example, the camp experience can vary depending on the day, and some reviews mention the importance of choosing your camp carefully.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a mix of adventure and cultural entertainment in one go. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or someone eager to experience Bedouin traditions, this experience offers flexibility and fun—ideal for those eager to maximize their time in Dubai’s desert.

Key Points

• Self-drive ATV rides provide a sense of independence and thrill in the desert.
• Multiple activities like dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding keep the experience lively.
• Live entertainment adds cultural flavor with belly dancing, Tanura, and fire shows.
• High-quality food options with barbecue, salads, sweets, and beverages make for a satisfying meal.
• Guides and safety are emphasized, with trained instructors and safety standards.
• Flexibility in itinerary and options allows customization to suit different preferences.

An In-Depth Look at the Desert Safari Experience

A Well-Structured Itinerary That Balances Adventure and Culture

This tour spans approximately 6 to 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day in the desert. It kicks off with a pickup service from anywhere in Dubai or Sharjah, which is a big plus for convenience. Once in the desert, the first stop is a 30-minute dune bashing in a 4×4 SUV, where the driver skillfully navigates the high dunes, providing a roller coaster ride with plenty of adrenaline. The reviews note that this is a highlight for many, with guests like Vikas A praising the “great sand bashing” and the friendly staff.

The next phase is the self-drive ATV experience, which allows guests to cruise over the dunes at their own pace. This is a significant selling point—reviewers repeatedly mention the difference between true open desert riding versus circuit drives. One guest emphasized that “In the open desert, not a circuit” makes all the difference, offering genuine thrill rather than a repetitive loop. Options include 10, 20, 30, or 60-minute rides, providing flexibility based on energy levels and interest.

Authentic Bedouin Camp and Activities

After the adrenaline rush, the adventure moves to a luxurious Bedouin-style camp called The Majlis, situated in the middle of the desert, reachable only via 4×4 jeeps—no roadside setups here. The camp features traditional seating, henna painting, camel rides, and sandboarding. Guests can also enjoy hookah (shisha), which some reviewers found to be a relaxing addition, and others appreciated the chance to try henna designs.

Reviewers appreciate the authenticity of this camp, especially the fact it’s the only one built in the middle of the desert, providing an immersive experience free from roadside distractions. However, some mention that the experience can feel somewhat touristy, which is typical in desert safaris, but the quality of the shows and food helps compensate.

Live Shows and Cultural Entertainment

The evening is packed with captivating performances, including belly dancing, Tanura spinning, and a fire dance show. One guest noted that the “sounds of traditional Arabic music” and the vibrant dance performances create a lively atmosphere. The shows are scheduled to entertain until dinner, ensuring a lively environment that captures the essence of Bedouin hospitality.

The reviews commend the professionalism of the performers, noting that the belly dancer, in particular, was engaging and interactive. The fire show and Tanura dance add a spectacular visual element, and many comments mention how these performances top off the adventure with cultural flair.

Dinner and Refreshments

A key part of the experience is the buffet dinner, which features barbecue, salads, desserts, and Arabic snacks like chicken shawarma and falafel. The menu caters to vegetarians and omnivores alike, with unlimited mineral water, soft drinks, and hot beverages like tea and coffee. Reviewers like Mollie S call it a “super fun and well-organized” meal, emphasizing how the food surpasses expectations for a desert safari.

Guests can enjoy their meal in the Majlis camp or outdoor seating, with many appreciating the chance to relax after a busy afternoon. The ambiance under the stars, combined with traditional music, makes for a memorable dining experience.

The Highlights That Keep Guests Coming Back

• Qualified Guides and Safe Activities: Safety is a priority, and guides like Abbas and Khalifa are praised for their hospitality and knowledge. The equipment, including quad bikes, is insured, and instructions are provided, making the self-drive experience accessible even for beginners.
• Flexible and Customizable Options: Guests can choose their ATV ride duration or opt out entirely. The flexibility to skip certain activities or be dropped directly at the camp is appreciated by many reviewers.
• Authentic Cultural Elements: From the Bedouin camp to live performances, guests enjoy a taste of traditional Emirati culture, which elevates the typical desert safari.
• Value for Money: With a price of just $28 per person, the tour offers a lot—dune bashing, ATV rides, camel rides, shows, dinner, and more. Reviewers repeatedly highlight how well the experience matches or exceeds expectations given the cost.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, a few guests mention issues like the camp selection—some felt it was more touristy or less authentic depending on the day. The importance of choosing a reputable camp is key, and the tour provider seems to have taken steps to ensure quality. Also, the timing of activities can vary, and some guests experienced shorter ATV rides than planned, often due to late arrivals or other unforeseen factors.

It’s also worth noting that the dinner and shows are only available during the evening, so if you’re looking for a shorter or morning trip, those options won’t include the same entertainment.

Practical Tips for Your Desert Safari

• Dress comfortably in light, casual clothes and closed shoes, especially if you plan to do activities like sandboarding or dune bashing.
• Bring a light jacket or woolen clothes if visiting between December and April, as desert temperatures can drop to around 9°C at night.
• Arrive early or on time to maximize your ATV and dune-bashing experience, as reviews indicate some rides may be cut short if delays occur.
• Opt for the open desert ATV ride if you’re seeking genuine excitement—circuit rides are more suitable for kids or less adventurous travelers.
• Coordinate seat arrangements if traveling with family or friends, as seating is on a sharing basis but can be adjusted upon request.
• Consider the optional activities—camel rides, henna, sandboarding, and self-drive ATV are included or available at no extra cost, making this a great value.
• Book well in advance—most guests book about 13 days ahead, reflecting high demand.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those wanting a well-rounded desert adventure, this tour ticks many boxes. It combines thrill-seeking activities like dune bashing and ATV riding with authentic cultural entertainment and delicious food. The guides and staff are praised for their professionalism and hospitality, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

If you’re after a cost-effective, fun-filled day in the desert with options for customization, this safari offers great value. The inclusion of live shows and a substantial buffet dinner makes it ideal for travelers eager to experience both adventure and culture in one go.

However, if authenticity and a quieter, less touristy experience are your priorities, you might find the camp and entertainment slightly curated for travelers. Still, the overall package delivers a memorable taste of Dubai’s desert landscape and Bedouin traditions.

This tour is best suited for adventure lovers, families, or cultural enthusiasts looking for a convenient, lively desert experience that offers a little bit of everything.

FAQs

What is included in this desert safari?
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from anywhere in Dubai or Sharjah, dune bashing in a 4×4 SUV, a self-drive ATV ride (with options for different durations), camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting, live shows, and a buffet dinner with drinks.

Can I choose to skip activities I don’t want?
Yes. Guests can opt out of certain activities, such as the roller coaster dune ride or ATV, or be dropped directly at the camp if preferred.

Is the ATV ride suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The ATV activity is supervised by trained guides, and no prior experience is necessary. You will receive instructions before riding.

What should I wear for the tour?
Light, casual clothing and closed shoes are recommended for comfort and safety. In colder months, bring light woollen clothes or windbreakers as temperatures can drop at night.

How long does the whole experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on the chosen activities and group size.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, the buffet includes vegetarian dishes, snacks, salads, and desserts suitable for different dietary preferences.

What safety measures are in place?
Guides are trained, equipment is insured, and safety instructions are provided to ensure a secure experience. Participants must sign indemnity forms, and the equipment follows safety standards.

In summary, this Dubai desert safari provides a lively, well-organized outing that balances adventure, culture, and cuisine. It’s a fantastic choice for visitors wanting a comprehensive, value-packed desert experience with plenty of photo opportunities, entertainment, and fun activities.