Dubai Desert Safari With Dune Bashing, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, the desert safari with dune bashing, camel rides, and a BBQ dinner is often high on the list of must-do activities. This tour, offered by Dream Night Tours, promises a six-hour adventure blending thrill, culture, and entertainment at an affordable price of just $39 per person. With glowing reviews and a consistent 5-star rating, it’s clear this experience is popular for good reason.

What we love about this tour is the variety of activities packed into one outing, the knowledgeable guides who keep the journey informative and fun, and the delicious BBQ dinner that caters to different dietary preferences. However, some travelers note that extra costs on-site—like for premium upgrades or certain activities—might catch you off guard if you’re not prepared, so a bit of planning is wise.

This safari is best suited for those seeking a fun-filled day outside Dubai, especially if you want a good mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment without breaking the bank. Families, first-timers, and adventure lovers will find plenty to enjoy here, making it one of the most popular desert excursions in Dubai.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $39, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the variety of activities included.
• Multiple Activities: Dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting, and live shows all in one trip.
• Guided Experience: Expert guides like Mohammed Sameer and Ammad enhance the experience with friendly, professional service.
• Cultural Touches: Traditional entertainment such as belly dancing, Tanoura, and fire shows add authentic flavor.
• Flexible Options: Non-dune bashing routes available, plus the chance to upgrade for premium services.
• Smart Planning Needed: Extra costs for activities like quad biking or premium upgrades are common; check what’s included beforehand.

In-Depth Look at the Tour

How the Day Unfolds

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or home in Dubai or Sharjah—most times around 3:00 pm—making it a perfect afternoon escape. The drive to Lahbab Desert takes around 50 minutes, during which your guide shares interesting facts about Dubai’s landscape and culture.

Once at the desert, the real fun starts. Before entering the dunes, your vehicle’s tires are deflated—a small but crucial step to enhance traction and safety during dune bashing. Dune bashing in a sturdy Land Cruiser on the red sands of Lahbab is the highlight for many. It’s a rollercoaster ride that’s as exhilarating as it sounds, with experienced drivers like Mohammed Sameer or Ammad making sure everyone stays safe while enjoying the thrill.

After the bashing, there’s a perfect opportunity to snap some stunning sunset photos from scenic dunes. Several reviewers mention how well the guides position the vehicle for great shots, and one noted that the stop in the heart of the desert offers “beautiful landscape views,” perfect for memorable pictures.

Cultural and Relaxation Stops

From there, the tour continues to the desert camp—a vibrant hub where the cultural elements shine. You’ll get a short camel ride, which many reviewers find adorable and fun, especially when combined with henna painting. Although some mention that extra charges might apply for certain upgrades, most find the standard offerings delightful.

A warm welcome awaits with Arabic coffee (Gahwa) and fresh dates, creating an authentic hospitality experience. During the evening, the camp springs to life with live entertainment—belly dancing, Tanoura performances, and fire shows—that add a lively, Arabian flair. One guest commented how the live shows are captivating and a highlight of the night.

Food and Drinks

The BBQ buffet dinner is a key part of the experience. For just a few extra dollars, you get a well-cooked, flavorful meal with vegetarian options available, and even Jain food if specified beforehand. Guests often praise the quality of the food, with some calling it “first class,” though a few note that food quality can vary, and some found the standard options acceptable but not exceptional.

Soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee are unlimited, keeping everyone refreshed after the adrenaline-filled activities. Some reviewers, however, mention that upgrading to premium services or extra activities like quad biking come with additional costs, which should be considered when budgeting.

Highlights of the Experience

Dune Bashing and Sandboarding

Dune bashing is the core adrenaline rush, with drivers expertly handling the vehicle over the steep dunes. Several reviews highlight how skilled drivers like Adnan and Ammad make the experience smooth and safe, even when pushing the vehicle to the limit. Sandboarding at the camp is also included, offering a fun way to test your balance on the sands.

Cultural and Entertainment Features

The live belly dance shows, Tanoura dancing, and fire acts are well-executed and add a touch of traditional entertainment. One review mentions that the shows are captivating and help create a festive, authentic atmosphere. Henna painting is a popular free activity, especially for women and children, adding a cultural touch without additional costs.

The Camp Atmosphere

The desert camp is lively yet comfortable, with ample photo opportunities and a relaxing vibe after the high-energy dune bashing. Guests comment on how well-organized the tour is, with guides pointing out places of interest and making sure everyone is looked after.

Additional Activities

Quad biking and buggy rides are available for purchase on-site, with some guests opting to upgrade for more adrenaline. Be aware that these extras can add to your overall spend, so consider whether you want to include them or stick to the core activities.

Transportation and Group Size

Most pickups are in shared vehicles accommodating 6-7 passengers, which balances intimacy and social fun. The transportation is comfortable and air-conditioned, important given Dubai’s warm climate. The guides are attentive, ensuring that everyone’s questions are answered, and they often check in to make sure children and less adventurous travelers are comfortable.

Timing and Duration

The entire tour is around six hours, starting at 3:00 pm and wrapping up in the evening. Given the length, it makes for a full, satisfying experience without feeling rushed. Reviewers appreciate the well-paced schedule, allowing enough time for each activity.

Price and Value Analysis

At $39 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the included activities, entertainment, and food. Many guests praise the quality of the BBQ dinner and the professionalism of guides like Mohammed Sameer and Ammad. While some extras are paid on-site, the core experience is quite comprehensive for the price.

What Could Be Better?

Some guests mention extra costs for upgrades, such as premium camp seating or additional activities like ATV rides. A few reviewers have expressed dissatisfaction with food quality or service issues, but these seem to be the exception rather than the rule. It’s worth noting that non-dune bashing routes are available if you prefer a more relaxed experience, which might suit families or those with mobility concerns.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits adventure seekers who enjoy high-energy activities like dune bashing and sandboarding. It’s also ideal for families or groups wanting a cultural experience combined with entertainment and good food. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the reasonable price, especially given the range of included features. However, those craving luxury upgrades or alcoholic drinks should consider additional costs or different tours.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from any location in Dubai or Sharjah in shared, air-conditioned vehicles.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins around 3:00 pm, making it perfect for an afternoon into evening adventure.

Can I skip dune bashing if I prefer?
Yes, guests who do not want dune bashing are taken directly to the camp without the rough ride.

What activities are included at the desert camp?
Camel rides, henna painting, live entertainment, and a BBQ buffet dinner are included. Additional activities like quad biking are available for purchase.

Are vegetarian or Jain meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options are included, and Jain food can be arranged if specified when booking.

Is sandboarding part of the package?
Yes, sandboarding is included and can be enjoyed at the camp site.

Are alcoholic drinks available?
Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on-site, not included in the package.

Can I upgrade to premium services?
Yes, for about USD 20, you can upgrade to premium camp seating and food.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but baby seats require an extra AED 100. Babies are not allowed for dune bashing.

How long is the entire safari?
The full experience lasts about 6 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Final Thoughts

The Dubai Desert Safari with Dune Bashing, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner offers a well-rounded adventure that balances thrill, culture, and relaxation. For just $39, you get a taste of Dubai’s iconic sands, traditional entertainment, and a tasty meal—all led by friendly, professional guides. It’s a fantastic way to see the desert’s beauty without the hefty price tag.

Ideal for families, first-timers, or adventure lovers, this safari provides enough excitement and cultural flavor to make your Dubai trip truly memorable. Just remember to keep an eye on extra costs if you want to upgrade or add activities—planning ahead can help maximize your experience and avoid surprises.

This tour stands out as an excellent value and a fun-packed highlight for anyone visiting Dubai looking to explore its desert wilderness with comfort and a touch of entertainment.