Dubai Tour and Desert Safari: Sand Boarding & BBQ Dinner Combo

If you’re visiting Dubai and want to see both its iconic skyline and expansive desert landscapes in one day, this Dubai Tour and Desert Safari offers a practical, fun, and value-packed option. With excellent reviews and a well-rounded itinerary, it’s designed to give first-timers a taste of everything—from the glittering cityscape to the golden dunes—without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

We love how this tour balances city highlights with authentic desert experiences. It’s perfect if you want a snapshot of Dubai’s modern marvels and traditional charm, all in one package. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the day informative and enjoyable. That said, keep in mind the full-day schedule can be quite packed, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full, active itinerary.

This tour is ideal if you’re after a comprehensive day out and want to maximize your time. However, those looking for a more relaxed pace or exclusive, private experiences might find it a little busy. Overall, it’s a popular choice for first-time visitors eager to tick off Dubai’s top sights and try some desert adventure.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines Dubai city highlights with an authentic desert safari.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and friendly service.
• Inclusive Activities: Dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner.
• Convenient Pickup: Options available for most areas, with additional charges for some locations.
• All-Inclusive: Water, soft drinks, and coffee at the desert camp are included.
• Value for Money: At $105 per person, it offers a full-day experience with many activities included.

Exploring Dubai’s City Highlights

The morning begins with a comprehensive city tour. The itinerary covers major landmarks like the Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort, where you can get a glimpse into Dubai’s past through art, galleries, and exhibits. The 30-minute stop is a good introduction, especially since the admission is included, giving you a chance to learn about Dubai’s transformation from a fishing village to a global hub.

Next, the tour moves to the Dubai Gold Souk and Spice Souk for a lively shopping experience. The 45-minute stop allows for browsing and buying jewelry or fragrant spices, with no entrance fee—making it a great way to soak in local market atmosphere. If you’re into photo ops, the Jumeirah Mosque and Burj Al Arab stops are brief but memorable. The Jumeirah Mosque offers a chance to snap photos, and the Burj Al Arab – the world’s only 7-star hotel – is a must-see for its striking architecture.

You also get to see the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, from a distance during the drive, along with a drive-by tour of the man-made island developments. These photo stops are quick but offer fantastic opportunities to capture Dubai’s modern skyline and luxury lifestyle.

Transition to the Desert Experience

After a morning of sightseeing, the tour takes you to Fun Tours LLC for the afternoon desert safari. Here, the adventure kicks off with dune bashing in a sturdy all-wheel-drive vehicle, which is a highlight for thrill-seekers. The driver, known for their skill and friendly banter, makes the ride both exciting and safe.

The desert safari lasts around 6 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy multiple activities. Alongside dune bashing, you’ll experience sandboarding, a fun and sometimes hilarious activity that involves sliding down the dunes on a board—perfect for adrenaline junkies or anyone curious about trying something new.

A major draw is the camel ride, which offers a more relaxed, authentic taste of desert life. Reviewers like Everett mention the guides’ professionalism and punctuality, emphasizing how well-organized and enjoyable the safari is. You’ll also find an opportunity for henna painting and shisha, adding to the traditional desert ambiance.

The Desert Camp: A Night Under the Stars

The desert camp is where the experience truly brightens up. At this rustic yet comfortable setting, you’ll be greeted with a barbecue dinner featuring vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with water, coffee, and soft drinks included. Reviewers mention the delicious barbecue food and the friendly service, making it a relaxing end to a busy day.

The desert camp also hosts a belly dance performance, adding lively entertainment to your evening. It’s a cultural touch that many find fun and memorable. The camp is well-organized, and the guides are friendly, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and engaged.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour starts at 8:00 am, which means early mornings, but that’s typical for full-day excursions in Dubai. Pickup options are available, with additional charges for specific areas like Jumeirah Circle and Dubai Investment Park, so it’s worth confirming your pickup location ahead of time. The small group size, limited to 15 travelers, keeps the experience intimate and allows for personalized attention from guides.

At $105 per person, the value is quite good considering the number of activities and inclusions. The tour is perfect for first-timers or those who want to squeeze a lot into one day. The experience is suitable for most travelers, as most activities are suitable for a variety of ages and fitness levels, though the full day may be tiring for some.

The only potential downside is the schedule’s packed nature; if you prefer leisure over logistics, this might feel rushed. Also, alcohol isn’t included but can be purchased separately, and optional activities like quad biking are available for an extra fee.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This combo tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Dubai. You’ll see the city’s architectural marvels and historical sites, then venture into the desert for an adrenaline rush and culture—all in one day. The guides’ reputation for professionalism and friendliness adds to the overall value, making sure you get the most out of your experience.

The inclusions—such as water, coffee, soft drinks, and a BBQ dinner—add to the tour’s appeal, offering both convenience and comfort. With the small group size, you can expect personal attention and a more intimate atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer a less hectic, more connected experience.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor wanting a broad overview or someone eager to try desert adventures, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s a great way to maximize your Dubai visit without the stress of organizing multiple activities, all at a reasonable price point.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, starting at 8:00 am and concluding in the evening after the desert camp dinner.

Is pickup included?
Pickup is offered, with additional fees for certain areas like Jumeirah Circle and Dubai Investment Park. It’s advisable to confirm your pickup location beforehand.

What activities are included in the desert safari?
Activities include dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, henna painting, and shisha. The BBQ dinner and soft drinks are also part of the experience.

Are there any age restrictions or physical requirements?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour involves a full day of activities, so comfortable footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended.

Can I purchase alcohol during the tour?
Alcoholic drinks are not included but can be bought separately at the desert camp or other designated areas.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the activities are generally suitable for families, and the small group setting helps keep the experience engaging for all ages.

How many people typically participate?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for both city sightseeing and desert activities. Don’t forget sun protection and sunglasses for the dunes.

This Dubai Tour and Desert Safari package offers an excellent value for travelers eager to experience both the modern cityscape and the rugged beauty of the desert in one day. With knowledgeable guides, well-organized activities, and a mix of cultural and adventurous highlights, it’s a solid choice for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

The mix of sightseeing, thrill-seeking, and culture ensures you’ll leave with lasting memories and plenty of photos. It’s particularly suited for those who want a structured, fun-filled day without the hassle of booking multiple tours.

However, keep in mind the full schedule and plan for a busy, energetic day. If you like to take things slow or prefer private options, you might want to explore more tailored experiences. But for a lively and comprehensive introduction to Dubai’s highlights, this tour hits many of the right notes.