Dubai Premium Red Dunes Safari, Camels & 5* BBQ at Al Khayma camp

Planning a trip to Dubai and looking for an adventure that combines thrill, culture, and luxury? The Dubai Premium Red Dunes Safari from OceanAir Travels promises an action-packed day with a touch of elegance. With over 12,000 reviews rating it a perfect 5.0, it’s clear this experience hits the mark for many travelers.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, you get a robust mix of dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, and traditional Bedouin activities — all set against the stunning backdrop of the vibrant Lahbab red dunes. Plus, the luxurious Al Khayma camp offers a gourmet BBQ, live entertainment, and star gazing, making it more than just your average desert adventure.

That said, there’s a lot packed into one day, which could feel a tad intense if you’re not used to high-energy excursions or the desert heat. Dune bashing isn’t for the faint of heart, and the day runs long, so pace yourself if you opt for the full experience.

Ideal for those seeking thrills, cultural insights, and remarkable photo ops, this safari suits travelers who want a comprehensive desert outing with plenty of activity and comfort.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transfers, activities, and gourmet BBQ.
• Multiple activities: dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, falconry, and more.
• Expert guides and drivers who are well-trained, ensuring safety and fun.
• Luxurious setting at Al Khayma Camp with live entertainment and stargazing.
• Value for money considering the diverse experiences packed into 7 hours.
• Group size limited to 6 travelers, offering a more personalized experience.

The Experience Breakdown

Convenient Pickup & Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup from your Dubai, Sharjah, or Ajman hotel, or other designated locations, with a quick, air-conditioned transfer into the Lahbab desert. This part of the journey is a highlight in itself — the guides are engaging and often share interesting stories about Dubai’s transformation from humble beginnings to a global city. Many reviews praise the professionalism of the driver and guide, like Sandra who mentions her driver Yusir being “informative and funny,” making the journey enjoyable right from the start.

Dune Bashing & Sandboarding

The core adrenaline rush comes from the 30-45 minute dune bashing in a 4WD vehicle. Reviewers describe this as “thrilling” and “super fun,” with the skill of the driver being crucial. One reviewer, Alireza, noted their guide Abid Wahid’s professionalism made the ride comfortable and engaging, especially for those who might be nervous about the motion.

Sandboarding is offered as an optional activity. Those who try it often say it’s a fun way to get closer to the dunes and add a sporty element to the trip. Casual footwear like sports shoes is recommended for sandboarding to avoid slipping.

The Allure of Lahbab’s Red Dunes

The Lahbab desert is famous for its vivid red sands and towering dunes, creating picture-perfect scenery. During the drive, many visitors marvel at the breathtaking vistas and the sense of remoteness from city life. The dune bashing also provides excellent opportunities for photography, especially during the sunset stop, which many reviews highlight as “breathtaking” and “beyond words.”

Al Khayma Desert Camp – A Royal Welcome

Arriving at the Al Khayma Camp feels like stepping into a luxurious Bedouin retreat. Guests are greeted with Arabic coffee, sweets, and dates, setting a hospitable tone. The camp is designed to evoke traditional Arabian hospitality with modern touches.

Here, you can dress up in traditional attire — kandura or abaya — and get some great photos with falcons, camels, and henna art. Many visitors mention how well-organized and authentic the experience is, with some noting the friendly staff and seamless transitions into activities like camel riding and falconry.

Bedouin-style Activities and Cultural Touches

Camel rides are often a favorite detail, with many reviewers mentioning they could repeat the experience as the camels are gentle and the views serene. Henna painting for ladies adds a cultural flair, and shisha in a shisha area completes the traditional vibe.

One reviewer loved the opportunity to dress up in local attire and have professional photos taken, turning simple moments into lasting memories. Others appreciated the chance to feed the camels, noting it’s a gentle activity that appeals to all ages.

The Gourmet BBQ & Evening Entertainment

As dusk falls, it’s time for the star of the show — the 5-star BBQ buffet. The food receives high praise for its quality and variety, with options suitable for vegetarians and carnivores alike. The open buffet features local dishes, grilled meats, and desserts, creating a perfect end to the day’s adventures.

Live entertainment includes traditional dancers, Tanoura and Khaliji dance shows, and a fire show (which some reviews find slightly out of place but still impressive). Many visitors enjoy sitting back with a drink and watching the stars through telescopes, especially with the clear desert night sky.

Return and Reflection

After a full day of excitement and culture, the transfer back to Dubai is a calm, comfortable ride. Reviewers like Nicole say the guide Sarg was full of information and fun, making the journey back just as memorable as the day.

What to Expect: The Good, the Thrilling, and the Practical

The tour’s duration of about 7 hours means you’ll get plenty of activity, but it’s worth noting that the day can feel long, especially if you’re not used to desert heat or high-energy outings. The pick-up and drop-off are included, simplifying logistics, but timings depend on the time slot chosen and can shift slightly due to temperature adjustments, which some reviewers found helpful.

The small group size (max 6 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, allowing guides to attend to everyone’s needs. Guides like Sunil and Addy are praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge, which significantly enhances the experience.

Transport and Safety

All 4WD vehicles are fully insured, equipped with safety features like GPS, GMS, and first aid kits. The drivers are licensed and well-trained, providing peace of mind during the dune bashing. For those worried about safety or motion sickness, it’s important to note dune bashing is not optional, and some reviews mention that it can be quite intense.

Food, Activities, and Extras

The all-inclusive nature means you don’t need to worry about additional costs for soft drinks, water, or activities like camel rides and henna. Optional extras like ATV rides are available at your own expense. Many guests rave about the quality of the BBQ, often calling it one of the best parts of the trip.

Highlighted Experiences from Real Travelers

• Guides like Rashid Mir and Sunil are frequently mentioned as knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more engaging.
• The sunset photo stop garners unanimous praise, with many describing it as “breathtaking.”
• The cultural activities at the camp, especially the falconry and dressing up, are appreciated for authenticity and fun.
• The BBQ buffet gets consistently high marks for being delicious and plentiful.
• Some reviewers mention long days and the need for good physical condition, especially to enjoy the fire show and evening activities.

Drawbacks and Considerations

While most reviews highlight the tour’s positives, some points are worth noting. Dune bashing, while exciting, is not suitable for those prone to motion sickness. The long duration might be tiring for some, especially during the hot summer months.

A few reviewers did mention unexpected breakdowns and less fitting entertainment (like the fire show), but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. It’s also important to check pickup times carefully to avoid missing the tour, as noted by a guest who didn’t get picked up.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and luxury travelers who want a full day of excitement combined with premium comforts. Families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a value-packed experience will find it especially appealing.

It’s also a good choice for those wanting to capture stunning photos and enjoy authentic Bedouin traditions in a safe, guided environment. If you’re after a thrilling, well-organized day with options for customization (like ATV rides) — this tour will deliver.

FAQ

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from designated Dubai, Sharjah, or Ajman locations, with pick-up times communicated in advance.

What should I wear?
Casual, loose-fitting clothing is recommended, especially in summer. Wear sports shoes for sandboarding and bring a jacket if visiting in winter.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour features a 5-star BBQ buffet, with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, plus unlimited soft drinks and water.

Can I do ATV riding?
Yes, ATV rides are available as an optional activity, but at your own expense.

How long does dune bashing last?
Approximately 30-45 minutes, led by experienced, licensed drivers.

What entertainment is provided?
Traditional Tanoura and Khaliji dance shows, fire performances, and stargazing using telescopes.

Is it suitable for children?
Most activities are family-friendly, but dune bashing might be intense for very young kids. Check if all activities suit your children’s age and comfort.

What is the group size?
Limited to 6 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Dubai Premium Red Dunes Safari offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, culture, and luxury, making it a fantastic value at $75 per person. The experience’s highlights—dune bashing, cultural activities, and a sumptuous BBQ—are complemented by knowledgeable guides and a small-group setting that keeps things intimate.

It’s especially suitable for those eager to explore Dubai’s desert landscape in style, with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic experiences along the way. Keep in mind the physical demands and long hours, but for many, it’s a day packed with unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or craving a cultural escape, this tour is likely to leave you with great stories and stunning memories from the desert.

Perfect for: Adventure lovers, culture seekers, and luxury travelers wanting a comprehensive, memorable desert experience.
Best for: Those comfortable with group tours, dune bashing, and a full-day itinerary, ready to enjoy authentic Bedouin hospitality in style.