Dubai: Extreme Desert Safari, Camel Ride, Show & BBQ Dinner

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai and want to encounter its iconic desert landscapes, this desert safari tour is a solid choice. It promises an action-packed day filled with adrenaline-pumping dune bashing, traditional activities, captivating live entertainment, and a delicious BBQ dinner. With a rating of 4.5 from four reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience worth the price and effort.

What really makes this tour stand out are the stunning sunset views, the variety of activities like camel riding and sandboarding, and the entertaining cultural shows under the desert sky. However, a potential drawback is that it’s a group experience with a maximum of six travelers, so if you prefer more privacy or a more exclusive setup, this might not be your first choice. Overall, it’s best suited for those seeking a value-for-money, authentic desert adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and entertainment.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $27, it offers a comprehensive experience with lots of included activities.
• Diverse Activities: Dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, henna, and traditional dress-up.
• Cultural Entertainment: Live belly dance, Tanoura dance, and fire shows add authentic flair.
• Stunning Sunset Views: Photo stops on dunes allow for memorable sunset shots.
• Included Food & Drinks: BBQ buffet, unlimited water and soft drinks, and traditional Arabic tea.
• Hassle-Free Pickup: Convenient hotel pickup from Dubai makes planning easier.

An Honest Breakdown of the Experience

The Pickup and Introduction

Most travelers will start the adventure with a pickup from their Dubai hotel around 3:00 pm. The tour is designed to be seamless, with transportation handled by the provider, RAH Tourism Dubai. This hassle-free approach makes it ideal for visitors who want to avoid logistical stress.

One reviewer praised the company for their responsiveness and responsible communication, noting that they contacted her the day before to confirm pickup details. The small group size—max six travelers—also means a more personalized experience, which is often rare in desert safaris.

The Dune Bashing Experience

The highlight for many is the 45-minute dune bashing in a VIP Hummer or similar 4×4 vehicle. Expect a thrilling ride over the sand dunes, with the driver expertly navigating tight turns and steep slopes. This is what makes desert safaris popular—an adrenaline rush paired with incredible views.

Reviewers have noted that the driver’s skill is worth mentioning; Abdul Majeed, for instance, was described as an asset to the company. The ride isn’t just about the thrill but also about the unique vantage points it offers, so be sure to have your camera ready. Many guests stop for a photo opportunity on top of a dune, capturing the dazzling sunset over the desert.

Sunset Stop and Photo Opportunities

The tour includes a stopping point on a sand dune to enjoy the sunset. This moment is especially appreciated for the breathtaking views and the chance to snap photos that will remind you of Dubai’s expansive sands. Several reviewers appreciated the well-timed stop, which allowed for relaxed photo sessions and appreciating the peaceful desert ambiance.

The Bedouin-Style Camp & Activities

After sunset, you’ll journey to a traditional Bedouin-like camp that offers a variety of activities. Here, guests can try shisha (flavored tobacco), paint their hands with henna tattoos, and dress in traditional Arabic costumes for photos. Camel rides are also a popular activity, with some reviewers mentioning that they enjoyed a short but memorable ride that added to the authenticity.

Sandboarding, another included activity, allows thrill-seekers to slide down the dunes, adding an action element to the trip. The camp’s ambiance is set to mimic traditional desert life, giving visitors a taste of Bedouin culture.

Live Entertainment and Cultural Shows

No desert experience is complete without entertainment, and this tour delivers on that front. Guests can enjoy live belly dancing, the Tanoura dance, and an impressive fire show. Reviewers highlighted the quality of these performances, noting that Qasim, the tour guide, made a point of emphasizing the cultural significance, making the shows engaging and lively.

The BBQ Dinner & Refreshments

As night falls, the group is treated to a scrumptious BBQ buffet featuring both meat and vegetarian options. The variety of salads, main courses, and desserts can satisfy even picky eaters and are well-appreciated for their flavor and freshness. Guests also benefit from unlimited water and soft drinks, plus traditional Arabic coffee and dates.

One reviewer mentioned that the food exceeded expectations given the low price, describing it as delicious and plentiful. For those craving additional options, alcohol is available at an extra charge.

Final Notes: Overall Value and Experience

This tour balances adventure, culture, and entertainment well within a reasonable price range. Several reviews mentioned that the experience was worth more than the modest fee of $27, especially considering the full itinerary and the quality of guides and shows.

Practical Considerations

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s suitable no matter the forecast. It’s also designed for most travelers, provided they can handle the activities like dune bashing and camel riding. The approximate duration of 6-7 hours** makes it a perfect afternoon and evening escape from Dubai’s city hustle.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This desert safari suits travelers who want value, variety, and a taste of traditional Arabian desert life. It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors, or those on a budget who still want a well-rounded experience. If you’re after luxury and exclusivity, or prefer private tours, this might not be the best fit. But for those eager to make memories, take photos, and enjoy authentic shows and activities, it hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, especially when you consider that for just $27, you get dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, cultural activities, and a hearty BBQ dinner. The inclusion of live entertainment and photo opportunities makes this a memorable outing. It offers great value for money and a genuine taste of Dubai’s desert life, perfect for those who want fun and culture without breaking the bank.

If you’re keen on a well-organized, engaging desert adventure, this tour will meet your expectations, backed by positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious food.

FAQs

Can I cancel this tour for a full refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not eligible for refunds.

What is included in the price?
The price covers dune bashing, sunset stop, camel riding, sandboarding, henna painting, traditional costumes, live shows (belly dance, Tanoura, fire dance), BBQ dinner, unlimited water and soft drinks, coffee/tea, and snacks.

Are there any activities not included?
Quad bikes are not included in this tour but can be booked separately if available.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting around 3:00 pm and ending in the evening.

Is hotel pickup provided?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup from Dubai hotels, making it convenient for travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and activities like camel rides and sandboarding are family-friendly, but always check with the provider if you have very young children.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Just bring your camera, some comfortable clothes for activities, and perhaps a jacket for the evening desert chill. All other essentials, including drinks and snacks, are provided.

To sum it up, this Dubai desert safari offers a fantastic balance of adventure, culture, and entertainment at an accessible price point. It’s especially well-suited for those wanting to experience the desert’s magic without a hefty price tag, making it a reliable choice whether you’re visiting Dubai for the first time or looking for a memorable outing.