Desert Safari BBQ dinner, Camel ride & sandboarding from Dubai

Dubai’s desert isn’t just a backdrop for luxury hotels and towering skyscrapers—it’s a landscape of adventure, beauty, and culture. The Desert Safari with BBQ dinner, camel ride, and sandboarding promises to be an all-in-one experience that blends adrenaline-pumping activities with traditional Middle Eastern hospitality. We’ve gathered insights from real travelers to paint a detailed picture of what you can expect, helping you decide if this is the desert adventure for you.

What we love about this tour are the stunning desert views, the diverse activities that suit both thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts, and the delicious barbecue dinner under the stars. A possible consideration is that part of the experience can feel somewhat commercial, especially for those seeking a more secluded, boutique style outing. Still, for most travelers looking for a fun, value-packed day in the desert, this tour hits many of the right notes.

This tour is best suited for adventurers eager for a mix of activity and culture, travelers who want value for money, and those who appreciate comfort and convenience. If you’re after an authentic yet lively desert experience, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines thrill activities like dune bashing and sandboarding with cultural experiences like henna and traditional shows.
• Great value: At around $39, offers a comprehensive 6-hour experience with multiple activities.
• Comfortable transportation: Includes pickup, drop-off, and unlimited refreshments during the drive.
• Authentic touches: Henna painting, traditional performances, and Arabic dress-up create a cultural connection.
• Crowd factor: With a maximum of 100 travelers, it’s lively but can be busy; some reviews mention the mass tourism feel.
• Photogenic moments: Dune bashing, camel rides, and the sunset views offer fantastic photo opportunities.

A Deep Dive Into the Desert Safari Experience

Starting Point: Lahbab and the 4×4 Dune Bash

The adventure kicks off around 2:30 pm in Lahbab, a desert area known for its impressive dunes. The highlight here is the dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle, which is described as exhilarating and offers breathtaking views of the vast sands. One traveler noted, “Our guide Awar was very polite and punctual, and the dune bashing was definitely the most exciting part.” The driver’s skill is crucial here for a smooth yet adrenaline-fueled ride, and most reviews praise the professionalism and friendliness of the guides.

For those craving an extra thrill, there’s an option to rent a quad bike for an additional fee. This allows you to take control of your own adventure over the dunes, adding a layer of excitement for the more adventurous.

The Camel Ride: A Touch of Tradition

After the adrenaline rush, the tour settles into a more peaceful activity—a camel ride. This isn’t just a quick hop; it’s a chance to slow down and enjoy the landscape from a traditional perspective. Travelers often mention enjoying the serene experience, with some remarking on how it offers a more authentic connection to desert life. It’s a gentle way to appreciate the desert’s quiet beauty after the high-energy dune bashing.

Sandboarding: Gliding Down Golden Slopes

Sandboarding is another highlight, especially for those who love trying something new or are simply looking for fun. Whether you’re an experienced boarder or a complete novice, the slopes are forgiving enough to enjoy the thrill of sliding down the sands. Several reviews mention how unexpectedly fun sandboarding can be, with one traveler saying, “I had never done it before, but it was surprisingly easy and addictive.”

Cultural Activities: Henna and Photo Stops

The tour doesn’t forget its cultural roots. You’ll have the chance to get a henna tattoo, which adds a personal souvenir to your experience. Reviewers have appreciated this touch, describing it as a relaxing activity amidst the adventure. Plus, dressing up in traditional Arabic clothing and taking photos has been a favorite for many, giving a chance to capture unique, memorable moments.

Sunset and Traditional Entertainment

As the tour progresses into the evening, the desert transforms with a stunning sunset view. This is a perfect moment for photos, as the light casts a warm glow over the dunes. Once settled at the desert camp, guests are treated to traditional performances such as Tanoura and fire shows. These cultural displays are often described as mesmerizing, with some reviews noting that the performances are a highlight of the night.

The BBQ Dinner: Savoring the Flavors Under the Stars

The night wraps up with a barbecue dinner served under the open sky. The menu typically includes a variety of grilled meats, salads, and sides, offering a satisfying end to the day. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the food, describing it as tasty and plentiful. One guest mentioned, “The food was surprisingly good, especially considering the price. It felt like a real feast after a long day of activities.”

Drop-Off and Final Impressions

The experience concludes with a comfortable drop-off back at your hotel or designated location. The overall duration of about six hours makes it a full but manageable day trip, especially given the rich mix of activities included.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Looking at some real traveler feedback, a common theme is the professionalism of the guides, with “Awar being praised for being polite and punctual.” The dune bashing and photo opportunities are consistently mentioned as highlights, with some travelers wishing for a tad more time at the photo spots.

One critique points out that some parts of the experience might feel crowded or overly commercial, especially at the desert camp, which tends to accommodate large groups. However, many still found the experience fun and worthwhile, especially given the excellent value for the price.

Other Practical Details

• Price Point: At just over $39 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the range of activities and inclusions.
• Duration: Around 6 hours, making it suitable for a half-day adventure.
• Transportation: Pick-up and drop-off are included, with unlimited refreshments during the drive, ensuring comfort and hydration.
• Group Size: Limited to 100 travelers, balancing a lively group experience without feeling overly crowded.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book around 54 days ahead, indicating high demand.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This desert safari is ideal for those who want a lively, all-in-one adventure that mixes adrenaline with cultural touches. It’s perfect for travelers on a budget who want maximum value in a concise timeframe. The combination of dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and a delicious BBQ dinner provides a well-rounded taste of desert life.

If you’re the type who enjoys lively group experiences, stunning sunset views, and traditional performances, you’ll find this tour engaging and memorable. The tour’s focus on comfort, with hotel transfers and unlimited refreshments, makes it accessible for families, couples, or groups of friends.

However, if you’re seeking a more secluded or bespoke desert experience with fewer crowds, this tour might feel a bit busy or commercial. Its high popularity indicates it appeals broadly, but that also means some areas may be crowded.

Overall, it offers a fantastic introduction to Dubai’s desert landscape—offering thrills, cultural insights, and hearty food, all in one accessible package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered as part of the experience, enhancing convenience and comfort.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Are refreshments provided?
Yes, unlimited refreshments are available during the drive, helping you stay hydrated in the desert heat.

Can I opt for quad biking?
Quad biking is available at an additional cost, allowing you to explore the dunes on your own.

What activities are included?
The tour features dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, henna painting, traditional performances, and a BBQ dinner.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 100 travelers can join this tour, creating a lively but organized environment.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable for families, especially those eager for adventure and cultural activities, but always check specific age restrictions with the tour provider.

In essence, this desert safari from Dubai offers a well-balanced mix of adventure and culture, all at an accessible price point. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a culture lover, or someone looking to tick a desert experience off your bucket list, this tour provides plenty of memorable moments.