Desert Safari with Baab AL Shams Dinner

Planning a trip to Dubai and want to venture beyond the glitzy skyline? A desert safari with dinner at Bab Al Shams could be just what you need. This tour promises a mix of adrenaline, culture, and luxury, all wrapped into a single day. While the price of around $266 per person might seem steep, the value lies in the variety of activities included and the chance to experience Dubai’s desert heritage firsthand.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the combination of thrilling dune bashing, the authentic Arabian dinner, and the opportunity to see stunning desert landscapes. The tour is well-organized, with professional guides, and includes several traditional entertainment elements like belly dancing and henna painting. One possible consideration is that the tour length—about 9 hours—means you’ll want to be prepared for a full-day adventure, but most travelers find the experience worthwhile.

This tour suits those who seek an adrenaline-filled day coupled with culture. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, the variety of activities caters to different interests. If you’re after a relaxed day or want to explore Dubai’s luxury lifestyle without the desert adventure, this might not be the best fit. Overall, it’s a wonderful way to experience the desert’s beauty and tradition while enjoying modern comforts.

Key Points

• Authentic desert experience with dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding
• Luxury dinner in a top desert resort with live entertainment
• Cultural elements like henna painting and traditional dress photography
• Professional guides ensure safety and enhance the experience
• Stunning desert views perfect for photography and memorable moments
• Value for money considering the full day of activities, food, and entertainment

A Closer Look at the Desert Safari with Baab AL Shams Dinner

This tour begins with a convenient pickup from your Dubai hotel or residence around 2:30 pm, making it easy to fit into your afternoon plans. The transport is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is essential given Dubai’s warm climate. The journey to the desert, near Dubai International Endurance City, takes about 40 minutes, giving you time to relax before the adventure starts.

Dune Bashing and Desert Photography

The first major activity is dune bashing—a roller-coaster ride over the shifting sands, driven by a professional guide with a desert safari license. This part of the tour is often the highlight for thrill-seekers, with reviewers praising their guides like Kashif, who made everyone feel comfortable and safe. The sand dunes are a photographer’s dream, offering sweeping views and dramatic textures that are perfect for snapping memorable shots.

Camel Rides and Sandboarding

Next up, you’ll have the chance to try riding a camel, a classic desert activity that adds a touch of tradition. Sandboarding is also included, giving the more adventurous a fun way to slide down the dunes. These moments allow you to connect with the desert landscape in a relaxed, fun manner.

Sunset and Cultural Experiences

As the day winds down, you’ll witness a beautiful desert sunset, a perfect moment to capture the shifting colors of the sands. Many reviewers mention how the evening atmosphere is enhanced by the presence of henna painting and traditional attire photography, giving you authentic keepsakes of your trip.

Bab Al Shams – The Setting for Dinner

The dinner takes place at Bab Al Shams, a luxurious desert resort that looks like a traditional Arabic fort. Inside, shaded courtyards and water features create a cool, inviting environment, offering a soothing contrast to the sandy outdoors. The buffet dinner features both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, with an emphasis on BBQ, served in a setting that blends comfort with cultural charm.

Entertainment and Nighttime Fantasies

Post-dinner entertainment includes live belly dancing and Tanoura shows, complemented by a full light and sound display. These performances add energy and authenticity, making the evening both entertaining and atmospheric. Reviewers have highlighted the quality of these shows, noting how they transport guests into a different world.

The Return and Overall Value

After a night of fun and culture, you’ll be driven back to your Dubai accommodation, usually around 11 pm or later. Considering the full day of activities, multiple stops, meals, and entertainment, the cost of $265.95 seems reasonable, especially for those wanting a comprehensive desert experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the package are hotel pickup and drop-off, dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, traditional dress photography, a full buffet dinner, and live entertainment. Soft drinks and water are provided, but alcoholic beverages and quad biking are not included. The absence of alcohol might be a disappointment for some, but it keeps the focus on cultural activities and family-friendly fun.

How the Tour Feels in Practice

Most reviewers report a smooth, well-organized experience. Kashif, the guide, received praise for his friendliness and safety-conscious attitude. One reviewer even called the desert ride a “pura aventura,” translating to “pure adventure,” emphasizing the thrill of the dune bashing. Others appreciated the authenticity of the dinner and shows, especially the vibrant belly dance performances and Tanoura spinning.

Timing and Group Size

The tour operates with a maximum of about 200 travelers, but groups tend to feel intimate thanks to well-managed logistics and guides. Starting in the afternoon allows you to enjoy the sunset and evening activities without feeling rushed.

The Experience for Different Travelers

• Adventure lovers will enjoy dune bashing and sandboarding
• Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the traditional entertainment and dress photos
• Foodies will find the buffet dinner satisfying, with a variety of flavors
• Photographers will love the scenic desert views and sunset shots
• Families and couples will find the experience versatile and memorable

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Yes, for those seeking a full-day desert adventure combined with cultural entertainment, this tour offers excellent value. The mix of adrenaline, tradition, and luxury makes it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to tick off a quintessential Dubai experience. The guides’ professionalism and ability to create a relaxed atmosphere enhance the overall quality, making the day enjoyable even for those new to desert safaris.

That said, be prepared for a long day—packing some snacks and water might be wise, especially if you want to extend your enjoyment beyond the included soft drinks. If you’re after a more relaxed or exclusive experience, you might consider other options, but for a lively, authentic, and well-rounded desert outing, this tour hits many of the right notes.

In the end, this tour offers a fantastic way to see Dubai’s desert landscape while enjoying top-tier entertainment and a delicious dinner. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, fun-filled day that blends adventure with cultural flair.

FAQ

How long does the desert safari last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting around 2:30 pm and returning late evening, making it a full-day experience.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel, home, apartment, or residence anywhere in Dubai, with transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Are vegetarian options available for the buffet dinner?
Yes, the dinner includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, accommodating different dietary preferences.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcohol is not included in the package, so if you want drinks with your dinner, you’ll need to arrange separately.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the tour’s activities like dune bashing may not be suitable for very young children; always check with the provider if you have concerns.

This desert safari with Baab AL Shams dinner provides a balanced, immersive, and exhilarating way to experience Dubai’s desert environment. Combining adventure, tradition, and luxury, it offers a memorable journey into the heart of the UAE’s heritage and stunning landscapes.