Desert Safari Dubai with Buffet Dinner

Dubai Desert Safari with Buffet Dinner: A Realistic Look at the Experience

Planning a trip to Dubai and craving a taste of the desert’s wild side? The Desert Safari Dubai with Buffet Dinner promises a packed six-hour journey that combines adrenaline-pumping activities with cultural entertainment—and all for just around $24 per person. We’ve gathered all the info, including honest insights from past travelers, so you can decide if this experience is worth your time and money.

What we love about this safari is its variety of activities, the inclusive nature of the experience—from dune bashing to dinner—and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The live entertainment, especially the belly and fire shows under the stars, adds a touch of magic. However, some reviews hint at disappointments like transportation issues and mismatched expectations, so it’s worth knowing what to expect beforehand.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a quick, lively taste of desert adventure without breaking the bank. If you’re after authentic cultural touches, multiple activities in one trip, and a chance to unwind with a buffet under the sky, this is a solid option. But if you’re seeking a more exclusive or luxurious experience, you may find others that suit your style better.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: Around $24 per person for a 6-hour adventure.
• Multiple Activities: Dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and desert photography.
• Cultural and Entertainment Highlights: Belly dances, Tanoura shows, fire shows, and henna tattoos.
• Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off with air-conditioned transport.
• Food and Drink: International buffet with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, plus unlimited beverages.
• Variable Reviews: Some travelers report disappointment or logistical issues, so manage expectations accordingly.

An In-Depth Look: What to Expect from the Desert Safari Dubai with Buffet Dinner

The Pickup Experience

The tour begins at 2:30 pm with hotel pickup offered from Dubai, Sharjah, or Ajman. The pickup is via air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle, though a handful of reviews mention that some guests, expecting a larger vehicle, were taken in a mini-van instead. If you’re particular about the type of vehicle, it’s worth confirming this with the operator beforehand. This particular point seemed to cause some initial disappointment among travelers who hoped for a more “luxurious” or rugged vehicle experience.

Dune Bashing and Desert Views

Once in the Lahbab desert area, the core thrill begins with dune bashing in a 4×4 car. This high Dune drive is where adrenaline meets scenery, as the driver navigates the red sands with skill and speed. Expect moments of gentle cruising mixed with sudden climbs—an exhilarating way to get your heart pounding and your camera ready.

Travelers have commented that the dune bash is lively and fun, although some felt the drive was too short, especially considering the trip’s cost. If you’re a vehicle enthusiast or looking for a more intense experience, this still offers a snapshot rather than an all-day adventure.

Sandboarding and Photography

After the dune bashing, you’ll get a chance to try sandboarding. This activity, while simple, gives you a fun way to connect with the sands and snap great photos, especially at the viewpoint of the desert. With no prior experience required, most guests find sandboarding easy to pick up, though it’s not lengthy.

The viewpoint is worth noting—some travelers appreciated the opportunity to take sunset photos as the sky turns warm hues, elevating the aesthetic of the experience. But it’s worth keeping in mind that the focus remains on the activities rather than extended scenic exploration.

Camel Ride and Bedouin Activities

Next comes a short camel ride, typically a few minutes long. As one reviewer pointed out, this is a “short” ride, but enough for a quick Instagram shot or a taste of traditional desert life. The henna tattoo, offered for women and children, is a thoughtful touch, adding a personal souvenir to your adventure.

Guests can also try on Arabic costumes for photos, which can be fun and help you get into the cultural spirit. These activities are straightforward, but some reviewers note that they may feel somewhat rushed or superficial if you’re seeking a more immersive experience.

The Desert Camp & Entertainment

The evening sets the scene for the dinner and live shows at a shared desert camp. The international buffet includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with a barbecue element that guests have found tasty and filling. Soft drinks, tea, Arabic coffee, and water are unlimited, making for a relaxed dining experience under the stars.

The live entertainment is a highlight. Expect belly dancing, fire shows, Tanoura dance, and traditional Arabic performances. One reviewer noted that the fire show repeats twice, which adds energy and liveliness. The dance performances are lively and engaging but are relatively short, so don’t expect a full evening of continuous entertainment.

Final Hours and Return

The entire experience wraps up around 8:30 pm with a return transfer to your hotel. Travelers have appreciated the smooth logistics and the comfort of air-conditioned transport, though some reviews mention delays or miscommunications, like one person noting their reservation wasn’t recognized at dinner.

This highlights the importance of confirming your booking and arriving on time, especially for the dinner portion. Be aware that alcoholic beverages aren’t included and are generally not available, matching local customs.

What We Think: The Pros and Cons

Pros

• Great Value for Money: For around $24, you get a good mix of activities, dinner, and entertainment.
• Variety of Experiences: From dune bashing to cultural shows, the tour offers a well-rounded taste of desert adventure.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, plus unlimited drinks, make it easy and relaxing.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children and includes activities like henna tattoos and costume photo opportunities.

Cons

• Logistical Variability: Some reviews mention issues like vehicle type discrepancies and reservation mix-ups.
• Brief Activities: The short duration of the camel ride, sandboarding, and shows may leave some guests wanting more.
• Potential for Disappointment: If you’re expecting a luxurious or highly personalized experience, this isn’t it. Some guests felt the experience was somewhat superficial or mis-sold.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This safari is perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking for a fun, quick desert adventure that combines adrenaline, cultural elements, and entertainment without a hefty price tag. It’s also suitable for families or small groups wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free outing.

However, if you’re after a luxurious or exclusive experience, or if you prefer longer, more in-depth activities, you might want to consider options with more personalized service or longer durations.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is included, and transfers are in air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles. Keep in mind some guests noted that the vehicle type might differ from expectations.

What activities are included?
You’ll experience dune bashing, sandboarding, a short camel ride, henna tattoos, and the chance to wear traditional costumes for photos. Unlimited tea, coffee, soft drinks, and water are also included.

What entertainment is provided?
The camp hosts live shows including belly dancing, fire shows, Tanoura dance, and Arabic performances. Shows are performed twice during the evening.

Are vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available?
Yes, the international buffet includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, often with barbecue elements.

Is alcohol available during this tour?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included or available at the camp, respecting local customs.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately six hours, from 2:30 pm pickup to around 8:30 pm return.

Are there any reviews I should consider?
Some guests reported dissatisfaction due to vehicle types and reservation issues, while others enjoyed the variety of activities and performances. It’s worth managing expectations regarding the scope and depth of each activity.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Final Thoughts

The Dubai Desert Safari with Buffet Dinner offers a lively, budget-friendly way to enjoy a slice of desert life with plenty of activities and entertainment. It’s well-suited for those who want a quick, fun, and mix of adventure and culture, especially if they’re traveling with family or on a tight schedule.

While some aspects could be better—like vehicle quality and longer activity durations—the tour’s inclusions and lively atmosphere make it a solid choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a taste rather than a deep dive into Dubai’s desert world. To get the most out of it, arrive on time, confirm your bookings, and keep expectations realistic. This experience won’t disappoint if you’re after a fun, lively evening with plenty of photo opportunities and entertainment under the stars.

Note: Always double-check details like booking confirmations and pickup instructions to avoid common pitfalls mentioned in reviews. A little preparation can turn this lively adventure into a memorable part of your Dubai trip.