Planning a trip to Dubai wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its iconic desert. While the city’s skyscrapers and luxury shopping are impressive, the desert offers a different kind of thrill — one filled with adventure, culture, and moments to remember. This review covers the Dubai Desert Safari with BBQ dinner, a well-rated tour that promises a taste of Bedouin traditions along with adrenaline-pumping activities.
What makes this experience stand out? We love how it combines dune bashing, camel rides, vibrant live entertainment, and a delicious BBQ meal into a manageable five-hour package. It’s a good value, especially with the included pickup and drop-off, making it easy to enjoy without the hassle of planning logistics. Plus, the consistently high ratings—perfect 5 stars from 15 reviews—show it’s a favorite among travelers.
That said, it’s worth noting that alcohol isn’t included, so this isn’t the tour for those looking to indulge in drinks during the evening. It’s best suited for those wanting a taste of traditional Arabian hospitality combined with adventure, families, or anyone curious about Bedouin culture. If you’re after a quick but immersive desert experience that balances fun, culture, and a hearty meal, this trip could be a great fit.
Key Points
- Well-rounded experience: Includes dune bashing, camel rides, live entertainment, and a BBQ dinner.
- Comfortable transport: Pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles.
- Authentic activities: Henna painting, sheesha, and traditional performances like Tanura dance and belly dancing.
- Value for money: At roughly $59 per person, it offers a lot for the price with memorable moments.
- Group size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
- Booking in advance: Usually booked about 83 days ahead, indicating its popularity.
What to Expect from the Dubai Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner
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The Itinerary Breakdown
Pickup and Journey to the Desert:
The experience kicks off around 2:30 pm with a pickup from your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 Land Cruiser. From there, the drive to the desert outskirts is part of the adventure, giving you a quick preview of Dubai transitioning from urban to wild.
Dune Bashing:
Once in the desert, you’ll hop into a 4WD vehicle driven by an experienced guide—likely someone like Mohammed or Ahmed, based on many reviews mentioning their skill and friendly attitude. The highlight here is dune bashing—a rollercoaster ride over the rolling sands that’ll get your adrenaline going. Reviewers describe it as “bumpy but fun,” with some noting the driver’s fast, skillful driving that really makes it exciting. Expect a few moments of slight vertigo and lots of laughter, especially if you’re prone to thrills.
Traditional Bedouin Camp & Activities:
After the driving adventure, you’ll arrive at a desert camp, quite a contrast to the cityscape. Here, nature and culture blend seamlessly. Reviewers appreciate the authenticity of activities like camel rides, henna painting, and sheesha smoking, which give you a glimpse into Bedouin lifestyle. Many mention the peaceful ambiance of the desert at sunset, with some describing it as “dazzling” and “beautiful,” perfect for photos.
Live Entertainment:
The camp features a series of live shows that are both captivating and traditional. Expect performances like Tanoura dance by a male artist, fire shows, and belly dancing, all performed with enthusiasm and skill. Travelers have described the belly dance as “amazing,” and the Tanoura performance as intricate and mesmerizing. The entertainment is designed to complement the scenic backdrop and keep the atmosphere lively.
The Meal & Evening Atmosphere
BBQ Dinner:
The meal is a highlight for many—a buffet with vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that are hearty and flavorful. Reviewers praise the quality of the food, calling it “fabulous” and “delicious,” with plenty of variety. The camp setup makes dining feel like a proper event, with the desert stars overhead as you tuck into your meal.
Post-Dinner Relaxation:
After the entertainment, some guests mention enjoying marshmallows around a bonfire, or just taking in the starry sky. The entire evening offers a relaxing yet immersive experience, wrapping up with a smooth, luxurious drive back to your hotel.
The Experience in Perspective
What makes this tour great?
It’s the combination of adventure and culture delivered at a reasonable price. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides who make the dune bashing safe and fun while sharing interesting tidbits about the desert. The high-quality entertainment and delicious food elevate it from a simple desert trip to a memorable evening.
What about the downsides?
While the tour is packed with activities, it does not include alcoholic beverages, which may disappoint those expecting a more party-like atmosphere. The overall duration of about five hours is perfect for most, but if you’re seeking an even longer or more luxurious experience, you might want to explore other options.
Group Size & Booking:
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour remains intimate enough for personal interactions with guides and fellow travelers. Booking about 83 days in advance signals popularity, so plan early if you want a spot.
Why This Tour Is a Good Choice
If you’re after a value-packed, authentic taste of Dubai’s desert, this safari ticks many boxes. It’s especially suited for first-timers eager to try dune bashing and camel rides, or families looking for a safe, fun, and culturally enriching evening. The inclusion of live shows and traditional performances ensures you get a sense of Bedouin hospitality firsthand.
The tour’s price point makes it accessible without sacrificing quality — many reviewers say they felt it was “worth every penny.” The professional guides and well-organized schedule help ensure a smooth experience, while the stunning desert scenery guarantees memorable photos and moments.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dubai
- Wow Arabian Nights Tours Desert Safari Program with BBQ Dinner
- Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise with Live Music & Open Bar
- Dubai Desert Safari with Quad Bike, Camel Ride, Dinner and Shows
- VIP Desert Safari Camel Ride Sand Boarding & BBQ Dinner
- Top premium Desert safari with BBQ DINNER
- The Ghost Village Safari with Bedouin Camp and Barbeque Dinner
Final Thoughts
This Dubai Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment. It’s designed for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable desert experience, filled with exciting activities and authentic touches. The consistently high reviews suggest that most guests leave with smiles on their faces, many even planning to return.
The combination of dune bashing, camel rides, live dancing, and delicious food creates a full evening that encapsulates the magic of the desert. The tour’s affordability and intimate group size make it a smart choice for those wanting a hassle-free, enriching adventure in Dubai’s sands.
Overall, if you’re looking for an experience that delivers fun, flavor, and a slice of Arabian culture without overextending your schedule or budget, this safari could very well be your desert highlight.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle, making it a hassle-free experience.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately five hours, starting around 2:30 pm and ending with your return to the hotel.
What activities are included?
You’ll enjoy dune bashing, camel rides, henna painting, sheesha, and several live shows like Tanoura dance, belly dancing, and fire shows.
Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the BBQ dinner offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, catering to different dietary preferences.
Is alcohol served?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included or served during this tour.
What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing is fine, but consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection during the day and evening desert chill.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or cultural explorer, this Dubai desert safari offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that won’t leave your wallet feeling desert-dry. It’s an accessible way to explore the sands and enjoy the Arabian hospitality in a setting that’s both fun and meaningful.
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