Dubai: Desert Safari Camel Riding, Sandboarding & BBQ Dinner

Planning a desert adventure in Dubai? This tour promises an action-packed journey filled with dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and a generous BBQ dinner. While it’s not a full-blown overnight desert experience, it’s a fantastic way to tick off many classic desert activities in one go.

What’s really great about this experience? First, the affordable price point—at just $27 per person, it offers surprising value considering the variety of activities included. Second, the enthusiastic guides and drivers make the trip feel personal and safe, especially with reviewers mentioning names like Mansoor, Zahid, and Shamraiz. And third, the delicious food and entertainment ensure that the day isn’t just about adventure but also about enjoying authentic hospitality.

One thing to consider? The tour is quite packed, so if you’re looking for a slow, relaxed experience or overnight stays in the desert, this might not be the right choice. It’s best suited for travelers craving a lively, all-in-one desert escapade with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural touches.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Dubai, families wanting a quick yet diverse desert experience, and anyone eager to try multiple activities without breaking the bank.

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Key Points

Affordable Pricing: At just $27, this tour offers great value with numerous activities included.
Variety of Experiences: Dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and entertainment all in one trip.
Highly Praised Guides: Guides like Mansoor, Zahid, and Shamraiz are noted for their helpfulness and hospitality.
Authentic Cultural Touches: Henna, shisha, and local sweets add a traditional flavor.
Stunning Views: Excellent photo ops, especially during sunset camel rides and dune drives.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the quad bikes, sandboarding, and camel rides, making it suitable for all ages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Seamless Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off with a comfortable pickup from your Dubai hotel or chosen location in an air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle. This small detail makes a big difference, especially in the heat of the day, as you’re transported safely and in style. The guides are described as friendly and attentive, with reviews mentioning drivers like Osman and Ali going above and beyond in helping guests understand the schedule and local customs.

Arrival at the Desert and Preparation

Once you arrive at the desert, you’ll notice the staff taking care of logistics such as adjusting tyre pressures—a small but important step for a smoother dune bashing experience. There’s also time for restroom breaks, photo sessions with falcons, or even trying out quad biking if you’ve opted for that upgrade. The initial briefing sets a friendly tone for what’s ahead, emphasizing safety and fun.

Dune Bashing – The Wild Ride

This is often the highlight, and for good reason. Your trained driver will skillfully navigate the towering dunes, delivering a thrilling ride that offers a real adrenaline rush. Reviewers like Michael and Michelle mention how exhilarating it is, with one noting the “safari 4×4 is very nice.” It’s a bumpy, joyful experience, perfect for those who love a sense of adventure. Keep in mind, this activity is fast-paced and can be quite loud, so brace yourself for a few laughs and maybe some squeals of delight.

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Sandboarding – The Surfer’s Dream

Next up is sandboarding—think of it as snowboarding on dunes. It’s simple to learn and accessible for beginners, and many reviewers highlight how fun and photo-worthy it is. Gemma shares that her kids loved it, and the opportunity to catch some great shots while sliding down the dunes adds to the experience’s appeal. It’s a unique thrill that turns a simple activity into a memorable moment.

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Short Camel Ride & Desert Sunset

The camel ride is described as a short but sweet experience, perfect for capturing picturesque sunset photos. Many reviewers loved the chance to sit atop these gentle creatures and take in the sweeping desert views, with some mentioning the “idyllic sunset” setting. It’s a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline of dune bashing, and a classic desert experience well worth including.

Authentic Hospitality at the Desert Camp

If you’ve chosen the 7-hour tour, the experience extends to a luxurious desert camp. Here, you’re greeted with rose water, Arabic coffee, and traditional sweets, setting a welcoming tone. Visitors can feed and ride camels, interact with falcons, and enjoy henna painting—adding cultural richness to the day. Reviewers like Grace and Ramune point out how friendly and attentive the guides are, especially Mansoor, who’s praised for his helpfulness and organization.

Evening Entertainment & BBQ Dinner

As the sun sets, the desert comes alive with performances like Tanoura dance, fire shows, belly dancing, and traditional Khaleeji dances. The included BBQ dinner caters to both vegetarians and meat lovers, with many reviewers raving about the quality and variety of the food. Jessica mentions that her family found the hospitality and food to be “great,” making it a perfect end to the day.

Returning with Memories

Once the entertainment wraps up, you’re transported back to your hotel. The entire experience is designed to leave you with a sense of adventure, cultural appreciation, and relaxation—all at an accessible price point. Many reviews highlight how guides like Zahid and Mansoor ensured everyone felt safe, comfortable, and well taken care of throughout.

Pricing & Value Analysis

At just $27 per person, this desert safari is remarkably budget-friendly considering the number of activities involved. For this price, you get a full afternoon of dune bashing, sandboarding, a camel ride, and access to a desert camp with cultural activities and entertainment. The BBQ dinner, often praised for its quality, is included at no extra charge, adding to the overall value.

Compared to more exclusive or overnight desert experiences, this tour provides a great introduction to the desert environment without the hefty price tag. The reviews consistently mention the helpful guides and well-organized logistics, indicating a smooth, hassle-free adventure.

What Makes It a Good Deal?

Multiple activities rolled into one tour
Authentic cultural touches like henna and shisha
Guided by friendly, knowledgeable drivers
The inclusion of a buffet-style dinner with live entertainment
Flexibility with options like quad biking (additional cost) and camp visits

Who Would Love This Tour?

This desert safari suits a wide range of travelers—families, first-timers, and budget-conscious visitors seeking a comprehensive taste of Dubai’s desert. It’s particularly ideal if you want a diverse experience without the hassle of booking separate activities. The presence of engaging entertainment and cultural elements makes it perfect for those eager to blend adventure with authentic hospitality.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, slower-paced experience or overnight stays, you might find this tour a bit rushed. It’s also suited for those who enjoy lively atmospheres and don’t mind the crowds or the packed schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The standard tour is approximately 7 hours, including pickup, activities, and drop-off. There’s also a shorter option if you prefer less time in the desert.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, kids love the sandboarding, camel rides, and quad biking (if selected). The guides are experienced with family groups, and the activities are generally safe and fun for children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, modest clothing is recommended. Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for sun protection, especially during the daytime activities.

Are the activities physically demanding?
Most activities are suitable for most fitness levels, but sandboarding and dune bashing can be bumpy. Notify your guide if you have any health concerns.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, you can choose to add options like quad biking or extend your time at the desert camp, often for an extra fee.

What is included in the BBQ dinner?
A variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available, served in a relaxed setting with live performances. Reviewers particularly enjoyed the quality of the food.

Is pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, transportation from your hotel or preferred location in Dubai is included in the package.

How do I book or cancel?
You can reserve your spot upfront with flexible cancellation—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—making it convenient to plan ahead or adapt your schedule.

Final Thoughts

This Dubai desert safari offers a solid, value-packed introduction to the desert’s thrill and beauty. It balances adventure, culture, and entertainment in a way that appeals to many types of travelers, especially those new to Dubai or on a budget. The combination of guides’ attentiveness, the variety of activities, and the quality of food make it a memorable outing.

If you’re looking for a lively, engaging day filled with photo-worthy moments and authentic touches, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just remember, it’s a packed schedule—so bring your sense of adventure and a camera ready to capture those dunes at sunset.

For anyone wanting a fun, affordable way to explore Dubai’s desert, this experience hits the spot—packed with activities, cultural flavor, and lots of chances for great photos and fun stories.