Planning a desert adventure in Dubai? This Desert Safari offers a mix of thrill, culture, and relaxation, all wrapped into a 6 to 7-hour experience that promises unforgettable memories. Whether you’re looking to conquer towering dunes or unwind at a Bedouin-style camp, this tour packs in a lot of authentic fun.
What we love about this experience is its balance of high-energy activities and more laid-back cultural moments. The dune bashing is exhilarating, the camel rides offer a charming glimpse into traditional desert travel, and the BBQ dinner under the stars with live entertainment truly rounds out the day. The inclusion of pickup and transportation by air-conditioned 4WD makes it convenient, especially after a long flight or sightseeing day.
A potential consideration is the cost—at $72 per person, some travelers might find the price slightly steep compared to other desert tours. However, given the variety of activities, the quality of entertainment, and the overall experience, many agree it offers good value. This tour is ideal for those craving adventure, cultural flavor, and great photo opportunities, making it perfect for couples, families, or groups wanting a comprehensive desert outing.
Key Points
- Thrilling dune bashing and sandboarding create an adrenaline-filled desert experience.
- Traditional Bedouin-style camp offers cultural entertainment and authentic food.
- Camel rides provide a relaxed, scenic view of the desert.
- Inclusion of transportation ensures stress-free travel to and from your hotel.
- Live performances like belly dancing and fire shows add a vibrant, memorable touch.
- Unlimited drinks and local treats help you stay refreshed during the adventure.
A Deep Dive into the Desert Safari Experience
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The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel or preferred location, which is a real plus, especially if you’re tired from travel or sightseeing. The transportation is by air-conditioned 4WD vehicle, which means comfort is guaranteed even in the desert heat. We appreciate how the tour offers flexibility—with multiple stops and activities packed into the day, you really get a full desert experience.
Stop 1: Lahbab
The heart of the tour is the dune bashing, where skilled drivers take you over the golden dunes for about 30-45 minutes. As one reviewer mentioned, “Feeling the thrill of dune bashing” is truly a highlight, especially for adrenaline seekers. The landscape here is spectacular, with the dunes shifting into vibrant shades as the sun starts to set, making for incredible photos.
Sandboarding and Camel Rides
Sandboarding is included, and you’ll find it’s a quick, fun adrenaline rush—like snowboarding but on warm, smooth dunes. Several reviews highlight the joy of sliding down the dunes, though some mention it’s best for those who enjoy a bit of a thrill. The camel ride is repeated as many times as you like, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the gentle sway of these iconic desert animals. It’s a great way to connect with traditional desert life and snap those Instagram-worthy shots.
Sunset and Cultural Immersion
The sunset view stop is perfect for capturing the changing desert colors—a favorite among photographers. Once at the Bedouin-style camp, you’re welcomed with Arabic sweets, coffee, and dates, giving you a taste of local hospitality. The henna painting offers a lovely, calming activity, especially for women.
Evening Entertainment and Dinner
The highlight is the BBQ buffet dinner at the camp, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Many travelers find the food quality surprisingly good for a desert setting, with a variety of local dishes to try. As the night falls, the live performances kick off, including belly dancing, Tanoura shows, and a fire show that’s truly mesmerizing.
Additional Details
- Unlimited cold mineral water and soft drinks keep you hydrated.
- You can wear local Arabic attire for fun photo opportunities.
- The entire experience is guided by an English-speaking licensed driver, adding a layer of professionalism and ease.
The Value of This Tour
At $72 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package considering the activities, entertainment, and transport included. The dune bashing alone can be costly if booked independently, so bundling it with cultural activities and a BBQ dinner makes this especially attractive for travelers seeking variety.
One reviewer noted, “It’s like a factory, in and out,” highlighting that some might find the pace a little rushed. But for most, the balance of thrill and culture, along with the photo opportunities, outweighs this. We think the tour is especially good for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Dubai’s desert landscape, or those craving adventure with cultural flavor.
Practical Tips
- Book early to secure your preferred pickup time.
- Bring comfortable clothes and sunglasses, especially for dune bashing.
- If you’re interested in quad biking or ATV options, these are available on request, though not included.
- The tour runs daily from 2:30 pm to 3:00 pm, so plan your day accordingly.
- The longer duration means you’ll spend a good chunk of the afternoon and evening in the desert, so prepare for a full day out.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This safari is best suited for adventure lovers who want a well-rounded desert experience in Dubai. Families with kids may enjoy the camel rides and cultural performances, while couples will appreciate the romantic sunset views and lively entertainment. It’s also ideal for solo travelers or groups seeking a memorable outing with ease of transport and a variety of activities.
However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a quieter, less activity-packed experience, this might seem a bit pricey. Also, those who dislike large group tours may want to inquire about smaller group options, since the maximum capacity is quite high at 999 travelers.
FAQ
Is pickup included in the tour price? Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your hotel or preferred location, making it a hassle-free experience.
How long does the dune bashing last? Expect about 30-45 minutes of dune bashing, which is a core part of this adventure.
What activities are included? The tour includes dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, cultural performances, and a BBQ dinner. Additional options like quad biking are available on request.
Is the tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, and kids often enjoy the camel rides and cultural shows, but it’s wise to check age restrictions with the provider beforehand.
Are drinks provided during the tour? Yes, there are unlimited cold mineral water and soft drinks to keep everyone refreshed.
What should I wear? Dress comfortably, and consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection during the day. You can also wear local Arabic attire for fun makeovers.
Can I take photos during the sunset stop? Absolutely. The sunset view is renowned for its photogenic qualities.
Are there any extra costs I should be aware of? The tour price covers most activities, but quad bike or ATV options are extra if requested. Gratuities are also optional.
Final Thoughts
This Dubai desert safari with camel rides, dune bashing, and a BBQ dinner delivers a well-rounded, energetic, and culturally rich experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the desert’s stunning landscape, enjoy exciting activities, and relax at a traditional camp with live entertainment.
While it may be slightly more expensive than some alternatives, the inclusiveness of transport, multiple activities, and the lively camp atmosphere justify the price for many. If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines thrill, culture, and scenic beauty, this tour stands out as a solid choice.
For those seeking a hassle-free day, vibrant entertainment, and a taste of true Arabian hospitality, this desert safari ticks all the boxes. Just be ready for a day of fun, photos, and unforgettable desert vistas.
To sum it up, the tour offers great value for its variety and quality, suited for adventure seekers, families, and cultural explorers alike. Just remember to prepare for a full, lively day in the sands of Dubai, and you’re sure to come away with stories to tell.
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