Overnight Dubai Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner

Dubai’s desert is famous for its sweeping dunes and legendary sunsets, making it a natural choice for a memorable overnight adventure. This Overnight Dubai Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner, offered by Orient Tours LLC, promises a blend of thrilling activities, cultural encounters, and relaxing nights under a star-studded sky. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, detailed reviews and the itinerary reveal a well-rounded experience worth considering if you’re after an authentic desert stay combined with fun and tradition.

What really makes this tour stand out is the variety of activities, from dune bashing and sandboarding to traditional dance performances and campfire dinners. We love how it balances adventure with culture, all within a relatively accessible price point of $129 per person. However, keep in mind that facilities are basic, so if luxury camping is your goal, this might be a more authentic and economical alternative. This experience suits travelers craving a taste of desert life, families, or anyone looking to combine adventure with cultural shows in a single day and night.

Key Points

• Adventure-packed activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides offer excitement and authentic desert encounters.
• Cultural performances such as Tanoura and belly dancing provide a glimpse into local traditions.
• Overnight camping in igloo tents offers a chance to sleep under the stars, with basic facilities that keep the experience raw and genuine.
• Delicious BBQ dinner and snacks like shawarma and falafel make the evening feast memorable.
• Guided experience ensures safety, local insights, and a smooth flow of activities.
• Flexible options include shared group or private safaris, enhancing personalization.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup in a 4WD vehicle, which is convenient and ensures a comfortable start. The drive to the desert takes a little over an hour, depending on your hotel location, giving you time to relax and get excited about the adventure ahead.

Dune Drive and Photo Stops

Once in the desert, the adrenaline kicks in with a dune bashing session in a powerful Jeep. This spirited ride over the dunes is a highlight for many, offering a rollercoaster of sensations. Along the way, you’ll stop to capture photos of the expansive landscape, a chance to truly appreciate the vastness of the Arabian Desert.

Camel Farm Visit and Arabian Culture

Passing by a camel farm, your guide offers a brief overview of the ‘Ships of the Desert’—a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to learn about these iconic animals. A short camel ride follows, though some reviews mention it’s a brief trek, which might leave those seeking a longer ride slightly disappointed.

More Great Tours Nearby

Traditional Arabian Campsite

Arriving at the campsite, a spectacular sunset greets you, accompanied by traditional Arabic Gahwa coffee and dates. Here, you can enjoy a camel ride, try sandboarding, and get close to a majestic falcon, a symbol of Arab heritage. The guide explains the significance of falcons in local culture—an insight that enriches the experience.

Cultural Activities and Snacks

Guests often mention the henna tattoo station and the chance to relax with a Shisha water-pipe, although these may be unavailable during Ramadan or due to safety guidelines. For a quick snack, you’ll likely enjoy a shawarma or falafel sandwich, which are popular local street foods and perfect for fueling up before the evening entertainment kicks off.

Evening Entertainment

The live performances are a definite highlight. Expect a mesmerizing Tanoura dance, a traditional spinning dance that captivates audiences, followed by an exciting fire blower show. The belly dance performance adds a lively, visual element to the night. Critics have praised the guides and performers, describing their skill and energy as authentic and engaging.

BBQ Dinner and Night Under the Stars

As darkness falls, a delicious BBQ dinner is served, often featuring a variety of grilled meats and regional flavors. The setting transforms into a magical scene with the starry desert sky overhead. Sleeping in igloo tents with provided sleeping bags gives a chance to experience desert camping without the fuss of setting up your own gear.

Sunrise and Breakfast

Waking up early offers the reward of a sunrise over the dunes, or you can linger in camp enjoying aromatic coffee and a hearty Arabian breakfast. The included breakfast often features regional items, giving you one last taste of desert hospitality before heading back to Dubai.

Return to Dubai

After breakfast, the group departs for the return trip, typically arriving back in Dubai in the late morning or early afternoon. For those opting for a full overnight stay, you’ll enjoy a unique night in the desert, while others may choose to head back to the city after the evening’s festivities.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

Guides and Cultural Insights

Guests consistently mention knowledgeable guides who enrich the tour with interesting facts and local stories. One reviewer appreciated the service from guide Nasir, noting that he contributed to a memorable experience. This personal touch elevates the trip from just another desert tour to an educational outing.

Food and Beverage

The BBQ dinner is often highlighted for its quality, with travelers describing it as both tasty and satisfying after a day of adventure. The inclusion of local snacks like shawarma and falafel adds to the authentic flavor and value, especially considering the reasonable price point.

Activities and Entertainment

Reviewers love the variety of activities, from sandboarding (though some noted the photographer was not immediately clear, which affected their photos) to the camel rides and cultural shows. The performance schedule is well-organized, with a focus on traditional arts that provide a genuine glimpse into Arab culture.

Accommodation and Facilities

The campsite’s basic facilities are a point to consider—these are not hotel-standard tents but igloo-style accommodations designed for two, equipped with sleeping bags. Guests value the experience of sleeping under the stars, but those seeking luxury might find the amenities limited.

Practical Considerations

Duration and Timing

This 17-hour tour departs in the afternoon and can extend into the early morning for overnight guests. It’s suitable for those wanting a full-day experience, though the early start and late return require some planning, especially for accommodations or daytime activities.

Price and Value

At $129 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded experience with multiple activities, entertainment, and overnight accommodation. When you consider the included transport, guide, meals, and entertainment, it represents good value for travelers interested in an authentic, immersive desert adventure.

What to Bring and Restrictions

Guests should pack warm clothing for the evening, especially since desert nights can get chilly, and toiletries for overnight comfort. Luggage or large bags are not allowed at the campsite, so travel light. Be aware that during Ramadan or special safety periods, some activities like shisha, falcon shows, and dancing performances may be unavailable.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers who enjoy a mix of thrill and cultural discovery. It’s also perfect for those on a budget wanting more than a quick desert drive and craving an overnight stay. Families with children over 5 years old will find it suitable, but it’s not recommended for guests with back problems or anyone seeking luxury accommodation.

If you’re looking for an authentic desert experience that combines adrenaline, tradition, and the chance to sleep under the stars, this safari delivers. It’s a great way to understand a corner of Dubai that’s often overlooked in favor of skyscrapers and shopping malls.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in a 4WD vehicle, making logistics straightforward.

What activities are included?
You’ll enjoy dune bashing, sandboarding, a short camel ride, and cultural activities like henna tattoos and falcon encounters.

Is the overnight stay comfortable?
The campsite offers igloo tents with sleeping bags, providing a basic but authentic desert experience. Remember, facilities are limited and not hotel-standard.

Are there any restrictions during Ramadan?
Yes, during Ramadan, performances like belly dancing and tanoura may be unavailable, and alcohol and shisha are not served.

Can I join as a private group?
Yes, you can opt for a private safari, which allows more personalized scheduling and activity preferences.

What should I bring?
Pack warm clothing for the desert night, toiletries, and travel light—large luggage is not permitted at the campsite.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years old, but older children generally enjoy the activities, especially dune bashing and cultural shows.

Final Thoughts

The Overnight Dubai Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation at a reasonable price. With knowledgeable guides and a variety of authentic activities, it provides a genuine taste of desert life that’s both fun and educational. The experience of sleeping under the stars, combined with lively performances and delicious food, creates a memorable escape from Dubai’s urban environment.

While the accommodations and facilities are basic, this is part of the appeal for many travelers seeking a true desert camping experience. It’s especially suited for adventure lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and those wanting a different perspective on Dubai beyond its iconic skyline.

If you’re prepared for simple comforts and eager to explore the desert’s natural beauty and traditions, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just remember to pack appropriately, and keep an open mind for a night under the desert sky that offers more than just a photo opportunity — an authentic adventure in every sense.

You can check availability for your dates here: