Desert Safari : free Sandboarding, Camel Riding,BBQ Dinner + Live activities

When it comes to unforgettable experiences in Dubai, a desert safari often tops the list. This particular tour, rated 5.0 out of 5 from 10 reviews, promises an authentic blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation—all wrapped into a roughly six-hour journey. Whether you’re craving adrenaline-filled dune bashing or a peaceful sunset over the sands, this safari offers a well-rounded taste of desert life.

What we love about this experience is its affordability at just $45 per person, the comprehensive itinerary that covers everything from camel rides to fire shows, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. That said, the tour’s large group size (up to 15 travelers, with a maximum of 500 participants overall) might mean you’ll need to be flexible about scheduling or sharing space in the vehicle.

This tour is perfect if you want a full-package desert experience without breaking the bank. It suits travelers seeking adventure, culture, or simply a fun evening out in the dunes. If you’re looking for a more exclusive or quiet experience, this might feel a bit bustling—but for most, it hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and live entertainment.
• Great Value: At $45, it includes pickup, activities, dinner, and more—making it a budget-friendly way to explore the desert.
• Cultural Touches: Henna painting, Arabic dress photos, and optional falcon and sheesha experiences add local flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Most travelers can participate, and the tour caters to a wide age range.
• Operational Details: About six hours long, with pickup from Dubai or Sharjah, and an emphasis on group safety and professionalism.
• Reviews: Consistently high ratings, with comments highlighting the fun activities and the friendly guides.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Start Point & Timing

The tour begins at 2:00 pm, giving enough time to fully enjoy the sunset and evening activities. Pickup is offered from hotels, apartments, private villas, or residences in Dubai and surrounding areas, making logistics straightforward. For those staying outside Dubai, be aware that the pickup is limited to Dubai and nearby locations.

The Journey to Lahbab

Once aboard a comfortable land cruiser, you’ll head toward the Lahbab desert, known for its high dunes and scenic beauty. The drive itself is smooth, with you likely to be greeted by a professional desert guide—whose expertise ensures both safety and fun during the activities.

Dune Bashing & Photo Stops

Dune bashing is the adrenaline highlight for many: a skilled driver will navigate the high sand dunes in a 4×4, offering thrilling spins and dips. The photo stop on a high dune provides a perfect backdrop for capturing the fiery sunset against the golden sands—a moment most reviewers find memorable.

Desert Camp & Cultural Activities

Arriving at the desert camp, you’ll be welcomed with tea, drinks, and traditional sweets. The camp offers opportunities for henna painting and photography in traditional Arabic dress, adding a cultural layer to your experience. Several reviewers note that the henna artist was skilled, and many enjoyed dressing up for photos.

Optional Activities & Live Entertainment

A key aspect of this tour is the variety of optional activities: camel rides (which can be repeated), fire shows, sheesha, and possibly even falcon displays. These add authentic touches, although they’re offered as optional extras, so you can choose whether to participate.

Sunset & Evening Live Shows

As the sun dips below the dunes, you’ll have time to capture sunset photos—a favorite moment for many travelers. The camp features a live fire show, where performers spin and dance, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

The Feast: BBQ Buffet Dinner

Come dinnertime, the international BBQ buffet takes center stage, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The quality and variety of food are generally appreciated, especially considering the tour’s price point. Expect a lively setting with stage lighting and sound, enhancing the atmosphere. The live belly dance and Tanoura dance shows turn the dinner into an entertaining event, giving a taste of local culture.

Return & Drop-off

After an evening of fun and food, your guide will transfer you back to your hotel or residence, concluding the roughly six-hour tour. The timing generally allows for a relaxed yet action-packed experience.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

One reviewer, Youyou, noted: “Nice experience, would do it again but I hate the fact that in the list of the stuff that are included they’re not cleared about the activity.” This highlights how some activities are optional, and clarity about what’s included and what’s extra can enhance your expectations.

Another key point from reviews is the overall positive vibe and professionalism of the guides, who ensure safety during dune bashing and entertain during the shows. The friendly atmosphere and diverse activities make it ideal for first-timers who want a comprehensive desert adventure.

Some travelers appreciated the value for money, especially with the inclusion of dinner, live shows, and multiple activities. However, others mentioned that larger group sizes could result in a slightly crowded experience, so it’s best to arrive with an open mind and a sense of adventure.

Practical Details & Tips

• Pricing: At $45 per person, this safari offers significant value considering the inclusion of activities, dinner, and transportation.
• Duration: About six hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling half-day adventure.
• Pickup & Drop-off: Included in the price, with pickups from Dubai and Sharjah. Ensure your location is within the coverage area.
• Age Suitability: Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you have young children or mobility concerns.
• Clothing & Gear: Wear comfortable clothes suitable for sand and possibly cooler desert evenings. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Optional Extras: Activities like falconry, sheesha, or additional camel rides are available at additional cost—budget accordingly.
• Booking in Advance: The tour is most often booked 14 days ahead, so plan your Dubai itinerary early.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This desert safari is ideal for adventurers seeking a quick yet immersive desert experience without the expense or time commitment of more exclusive tours. It’s a fantastic choice for first-time visitors wanting a taste of traditional Bedouin culture alongside thrilling activities. Families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a fun, lively evening will find plenty to enjoy here.

If you’re after a relaxed sunset with some cultural flavor and a hearty BBQ, this tour hits the mark. Those seeking a more private, quiet experience may prefer to look for smaller, specialized options.

The Sum Up

This Dubai desert safari offers a well-rounded adventure at a budget-friendly price. Combining exciting dune bashing, cultural activities, and vibrant live entertainment, it caters to a variety of interests, making it a great introduction to the Arabian desert. The inclusiveness of activities like sandboarding, camel riding, and henna painting ensures that everyone leaves with memorable moments.

The professional guides, plentiful photo opportunities, and lively camp atmosphere make it a dependable choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive desert outing. The addition of a delicious BBQ dinner and cultural shows ensures the experience feels festive and authentic.

While large group sizes might reduce some intimacy, the overall energy and variety of activities make this a fun, value-packed option. Whether you’re visiting Dubai for the first time or returning for more, this safari offers a lively and fulfilling way to experience the desert’s magic.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, provided you’re within Dubai or Sharjah. The tour uses a comfortable land cruiser for transportation.

What activities are optional?
Camel rides, falcon displays, sheesha, and quad bike options are available as extras, so you can customize your experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately six hours, starting at 2:00 pm with the return usually by evening.

Can I participate if I have young children?
Most travelers can, but it’s best to check with the provider if you have very young kids or mobility concerns, as some activities involve walking or physical activity.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the BBQ buffet includes vegetarian dishes alongside non-vegetarian options, catering to various dietary preferences.

Is there any age restriction?
Most travelers are suitable, but always verify if you have specific health or age considerations, especially for dune bashing.

This desert safari offers a lively, packed schedule that balances adventure, culture, and culinary delights—all at a very reasonable price. It’s a solid choice for those looking to tick off a quintessential Dubai experience with minimal hassle and maximum fun.