Desert Safari Dubai BBQ Dinner, Camel Ride & Dune Bashing

If you’re considering a desert safari in Dubai, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of what the sands have to offer — from adrenaline-pumping dune bashing to cultural moments and a delicious BBQ dinner. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a solid choice for travelers looking for value, fun, and memorable sights in a single package.

What we love about this experience are the knowledgeable guides, the stunning sunset views, and the inclusive nature of food and entertainment — making it a hassle-free adventure. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s a group tour, so if you prefer complete privacy or luxury, this might not be the best fit.

This tour suits travelers who want an active, fun-packed day with plenty of photo opportunities, cultural insights, and a good dose of adrenaline. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive desert adventure without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Combines dune bashing, camel riding, cultural shows, and a BBQ dinner, offering good value for the price.
• Comfortable Transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, saving you the hassle of navigating Dubai’s busy streets.
• Engaging Guides: Guides are not only experienced drivers but also attentive to guests’ needs, making the journey smoother.
• Photogenic Moments: Stops at scenic vistas and sunset views make for memorable photographs.
• Family-Friendly: Activities like camel rides and sandboarding appeal to all ages.
• Weather-Dependent: Cancellations due to bad weather are possible, but you’ll be offered alternatives or full refunds.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Lahbab Desert — A Picturesque Sunset Scene

The adventure kicks off at Lahbab Desert, famous for its red dunes and ideal terrain for dune bashing. Here, you’ll get your adrenaline fix as an expert guide takes you on exciting rides across the sand. Reviewers mention the “skillful drive” and “safe experience” offered by guides like Waqas, who is frequently praised for his professionalism and friendly demeanor.

The sunset view here is particularly spectacular. As the sun dips, the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges and reds, perfect for those still shots that will make your friends jealous. One reviewer even noted how the “fiery descent of the sun” created a magical atmosphere for photos and peaceful moments alike.

Stop 2: Al Awir Camp — Cultural Encounters & Sand Fun

After sunset, the journey continues to the Al Aweer camp, a true highlight for those interested in cultural activities. Here, guests can climb aboard camels, don traditional Arabic costumes for photos, and enjoy the starter snacks that keep spirits high. Reviewers love how attentive and kind the staff are, making everyone feel comfortable and cared for.

This stop also offers sandboarding, which provides an exhilarating thrill — one guest mentioned how “the car ride in the dunes is really fun” and that sandboarding adds a layer of excitement. The blend of culture and physical activity keeps this segment engaging and varied.

Stop 3: Nazwa — Evening Shows & Dinner

As the evening deepens, guests gather at Nazwa for a series of live performances. These include a mesmerizing fire show, a storytelling dance, and short cultural acts that capture the region’s traditions. Expect about 15 minutes of captivating entertainment that helps you unwind after the day’s adrenaline.

Then, a full international BBQ buffet awaits. Reviews consistently mention the delicious variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, which means everyone finds something to satisfy their hunger. Many note the generous portions and great quality of the food, with some reviewers mentioning that it’s quite a value for money given the overall experience.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour includes SUV 4×4 transfers for both pickup and drop-off, making the logistics straightforward. The maximum group size is around 99 travelers, which means you get a lively, sociable atmosphere without feeling overcrowded. Guests have praised the guides, like Waqas and Shan Afzal, for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, often helping with photos and making sure everyone feels safe and entertained.

Duration & Price

Spanning approximately 6 hours, the tour strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation. The cost is about $55.82 per person, which is quite reasonable considering everything included—from transfers to the full dinner and entertainment. Reviewers repeatedly mention that the value for money is excellent, especially when factoring in the professional guides and the variety of activities.

The Guides & Service

Many reviews highlight Waqas and Shan Afzal as exceptional guides—attentive, friendly, and skilled drivers who know how to keep the group safe while adding fun to the experience. Waqas’s efforts in taking fantastic photos and making everyone feel comfortable have been particularly praised, with one reviewer noting he “made the trip memorable”.

Scenic Views & Photographic Moments

The stops at Lahbab Desert and sunset viewing spots create a beautiful setting for photographs. Travelers often comment on how “extraordinary” the views are, especially during sunset, making it perfect for those looking to capture stunning pictures.

Cultural and Physical Activities

From camel rides to sandboarding, the tour offers a well-rounded mix of cultural engagement and outdoor excitement. Guests mention how donning traditional costumes and posing with camels enhances the experience, while sandboarding adds an adrenaline rush.

Food & Entertainment

The BBQ buffet is consistently rated highly; reviewers mention the variety of dishes and good quality, along with the live dance shows like fire performances and storytelling dances that entertain throughout the evening. These added elements turn an outdoor adventure into an immersive cultural evening.

• Book in advance: The tour is often booked around 11 days ahead, indicating its popularity.
• Dress comfortably: Bring layers for the desert, as temperatures can fluctuate between day and night.
• Photography: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone for the sunset vistas and lively performances.
• Timing: The tour runs mainly in the evening, so plan your day accordingly.
• Weather: Be aware that bad weather can lead to cancellations, but you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This experience is ideal for those wanting an active day in the desert with a mix of adventure and cultural moments. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking good value and memorable sights. If you enjoy photo opportunities, live performances, and hearty food, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if you prefer luxury or a completely private experience, you might find this group setting too lively or casual.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubai, making logistics convenient and stress-free.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities is recommended. Consider layers for the desert’s temperature changes and bring sunglasses and sunscreen.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the buffet includes vegetarian dishes, along with non-vegetarian options, catering to different dietary preferences.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour is approximately 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, activities like camel rides and sandboarding are family-friendly, making it a good choice for travelers with kids.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This Dubai desert safari offers a well-rounded adventure packed with thrilling rides, cultural displays, and a hearty BBQ dinner. The professional guides and stunning sunset vistas elevate the experience, making it a great value for money at about $55. Keep in mind the group nature of the tour, which fosters a lively atmosphere and opportunities to forge new friendships.

Whether you’re after thrilling dune bashing, photo-worthy sunsets, or authentic entertainment, this tour has plenty to offer. It’s especially suited for those wanting a diverse, fun-filled day that captures the essence of Dubai’s desert landscape. Just remember to book early, dress appropriately, and bring your camera!

This tour provides a memorable taste of Dubai’s sands, perfect for those seeking adventure with a side of culture and delicious food.