Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner, Camel Ride, Sand Board & Live Show

Getting a taste of Dubai’s desert lifestyle through a desert safari is a must-do for many travelers, and this particular tour has garnered rave reviews for good reason. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the consistently perfect 5-star ratings and enthusiastic feedback tell a compelling story.

What makes this safari stand out? Firstly, the self-drive quad biking across the iconic red dunes offers a thrill for adventure lovers. Then, the mix of cultural activities like camel rides and Arabic costume photography adds an authentic flavor. And finally, the entertainment options—from belly dancing to fire shows—provide the perfect cap to a day packed with fun.

One point to consider is the tour’s duration—around 7 hours and 10 minutes—which means you’ll want to set aside a good part of your day. This experience caters best to those who love outdoor activities, culture, and lively evening shows. If you’re after a relaxed, luxury experience or if you have mobility concerns, this might not be the ideal choice. For energetic travelers eager to see the desert’s many facets, this safari hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• Adventure and culture blend seamlessly with dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional activities.
• Expert guides and friendly drivers like Islam and Hayat ensure a smooth, engaging experience.
• The BBQ dinner and live entertainment provide excellent value for a full evening of entertainment.
• The tour’s pricing at $40 per person offers a good balance of cost and variety of activities.
• Personalized experiences such as private guides and remote desert access are highlights.
• Well-organized logistics include hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and timely departures.

Introduction to the Dubai Desert Safari Experience

Imagine an experience that combines the thrill of driving across expansive red dunes with moments of traditional Arabian culture and lively entertainment. This desert safari, offered by the Desert Adventure Team, promises an adventure of around 7 hours, packed with activities that capture the essence of Dubai’s desert landscape.

The tour gets high praise for the expert guides, especially for personnel like Islam and Hayat, who are praised for their punctuality, friendliness, and thorough knowledge. With reviews highlighting their professionalism, you can expect a safe and informative journey. The overall price point—around $40—makes this a surprisingly accessible way to enjoy a full day of desert fun, especially considering the range of activities included.

While the tour is filled with highlights, the 7-hour duration means you’ll want to be prepared for a full day out. If you prefer more relaxed, less activity-heavy excursions, this might feel a bit intense. But for those craving adrenaline, cultural insights, and a taste of Arabic nightlife, this safari caters beautifully.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Pickup and Initial Transfer

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup—a stress-free start that sets the tone for a smooth day. The tour offers air-conditioned transport and is designed to accommodate up to 100 travelers, ensuring comfort and safety. Expect to be collected from your hotel or residence, with a typical pickup window depending on your location.

Lahbab Stop for Refreshments

After about an hour of travel, you’ll stop at Lahbab, a well-known stopover for desert safaris. Here, you can use the washrooms, stretch your legs, and grab some water or a quick cigarette break. It’s a good chance to gear up for the activities ahead, and reviews mention that guides like Islam are attentive, making sure everyone is comfortable.

Dune Bashing and Quad Biking

Next, the real excitement begins. You’ll spend approximately 45 minutes to an hour at the Lahbab dunes, engaging in dune bashing—a rollercoaster ride across the sand, often described as thrilling and bumpy, yet safe when guided by experienced drivers. For the more adventurous, quad biking is an optional activity allowing you to carve your own path through the dunes.

Travelers consistently praise the professionalism and friendliness of drivers like Hayat, who are noted for their helpfulness and safe driving. One reviewer mentioned that Hayat made the entire experience more enjoyable by patiently assisting throughout.

The Dubai Leisure Desert Camp

This is the heart of the safari. The desert camp offers a wide array of activities, all included in the ticket price:

• Camel rides, which are appreciated for offering a genuine taste of desert travel. Reviewers like Islam’s attentive guidance make this experience memorable.
• Sandboarding, a fun and fast-paced activity for all ages. Many mention how much they enjoyed the thrill of sliding down dunes.
• Henna tattoos for ladies, and Arabic costume photography—a perfect chance for memorable photos.
• Unlimited soft drinks, tea, coffee, and water keep everyone refreshed, especially during the hot days.
• The BBQ buffet dinner features both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with reviews praising the freshness and quality of the grilled food.

Evening Entertainment

The night concludes with live shows like belly dancing, fire shows, and Tanoura performances. Reviewers often highlight how the entertainment was consistent and engaging, making the desert experience feel complete. The lively atmosphere ensures everyone leaves with a smile, and many mention how the shows exceeded expectations.

Drop-off and Return

After a full day of adventure and entertainment, you’ll be transported back to your hotel or residence. Most reviews note the timely and safe return, adding to the overall positive impression of the tour.

The Value of This Desert Safari

Given the cost of $40 per person, this tour offers an incredible range of activities. Including dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, a BBQ dinner, and live shows, the value-for-money is evident. Travelers frequently mention the professional guides, especially Islam and Hayat, as key to making the day enjoyable and stress-free.

The flexibility of the experience—such as optional quad biking and the ability to upgrade seating—adds to its appeal. Many reviewers note that the guides go beyond expectations, offering detailed explanations and personalized care, creating a special atmosphere. The inclusion of sustainable practices and remote desert access ensures that this tour respects the environment while delivering a memorable experience.

Food and Entertainment

The BBQ dinner is often highlighted as a highlight, with reviews describing it as freshly grilled and satisfying. The live performances are praised for their consistency and energy, with belly dancers and fire performers keeping guests entertained well into the night. This aspect transforms the safari from a daytime adventure into a lively cultural celebration.

Transport and Group Size

The air-conditioned vehicles and organized logistics provide comfort, with a maximum group size of 100 travelers ensuring a lively but manageable environment. Many reviews specify that drivers like Islam and Hayat are punctual, friendly, and attentive, making the whole experience more enjoyable.

Tips for a Better Experience

• Book in advance: The tour is popular and often booked 48 days ahead.
• Dress appropriately: Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for sand and heat.
• Prepare for physical activity: Moderate fitness is recommended for dune bashing and sandboarding.
• Communicate dietary needs: Vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options are available—just specify during booking.
• Bring essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and perhaps a hat for daytime.

Who This Tour is Perfect For

This desert safari suits adventure seekers who want to combine adrenaline activities with culture. It’s ideal for families, thanks to the variety of activities that cater to all ages, especially the kids who loved the camel rides and sandboarding.

If you enjoy live performances and a lively atmosphere, this tour delivers big. It’s also excellent for solo travelers or couples looking for a structured, fun-filled day in Dubai’s desert.

However, if you prefer a luxury, relaxed experience, or have mobility concerns, you might want to explore other options. This experience is packed with activities and a lively environment, which might not suit those seeking a quieter, more sedate outing.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or residence, making the start of your adventure hassle-free.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes, including activities, dinner, and transportation.

Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
Yes, dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free are accommodated if specified during booking.

What activities are included in the package?
Camel rides, sandboarding, dune bashing, live entertainment shows, and a BBQ buffet dinner are all included.

Can I participate in quad biking?
Yes, quad biking is an optional activity available at Lahbab dunes during the stop, and it’s highly praised for its fun factor.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Reviews mention that children enjoyed camel rides, sandboarding, and the vibrant shows, making it family-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This desert safari offers a lively, authentic taste of Dubai’s sands without breaking the bank. The combination of adventure, cultural activities, and lively entertainment makes it a well-rounded experience for a wide range of travelers. The professional guides, especially Islam and Hayat, add a personal touch that elevates the day from just a standard tour to a memorable event.

While it’s packed with activities, the organization ensures that everything flows smoothly, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy each aspect. The value for money is undeniable, particularly considering the included dinner and entertainment.

This tour is best suited for those who want a fun, active day in the desert, with a lively evening vibe. If you’re after a mix of adventure and cultural experiences, and don’t mind a full day outdoors, this safari will likely be one of your highlights in Dubai.

References

• Viator Desert Safari Tour