If you’re considering a desert adventure in Dubai, the Premium Desert Safari offered by Al Atif Tourism promises a comprehensive blend of thrill, culture, and entertainment in around seven hours. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions help us paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect from this well-rounded desert outing.
What immediately stands out are the diverse activities—from adrenaline-pumping dune bashing to relaxing camel rides—and the chance to enjoy an authentic Bedouin-style dinner with live performances. The tour’s value for money seems well-placed, especially considering the inclusion of pickup, drop-off, unlimited refreshments, and multiple shows.
One thing travelers might want to keep in mind is that the tour is quite structured, which might limit spontaneous exploration. It’s an experience best suited for those who want a curated, immersive taste of desert life without sacrificing comfort or variety.
Who is this tour for?
This safari is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive desert experience that combines adventure, cultural insights, and entertainment—all in a single, well-organized package. It’s particularly appealing to first-timers to Dubai looking to tick off key desert activities, as well as families or groups who want a fun, inclusive outing.
Key Points
- Diverse activities keep everyone engaged, from dune bashing to sandboarding.
- Cultural elements like a camel ride, henna tattoo, and oasis visits add authenticity.
- Live performances at the Bedouin camp, including belly dancing and fire shows, deliver local flavor.
- Comfort and convenience are prioritized with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
- Great value for the price, given the variety of activities and entertainment.
- Guides and service consistently receive praise for their professionalism and helpfulness.
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The Complete Experience: What You Can Expect
Pickup and Initial Drive – Starting in Lahbab
The adventure kicks off with pickup from your Dubai hotel, which sets the tone for a hassle-free day. Traveling in an air-conditioned 4×4 SUV makes for a comfortable ride en route to the desert. The guide greets you with a friendly approach, as reviews highlight the importance of knowledgeable guides—like Malik and Umar—who make the journey both informative and enjoyable.
Once in the desert, the real fun begins. The guide deflates the tires of the vehicle, a necessary step to improve dune-bashing stability, and then proceeds to take you on a rollercoaster ride over the dunes. This part is definitely a highlight for thrill-seekers, as the dune bashing is described as a “desert rollercoaster,” with some reviews noting it’s a “first-class” experience.
Exploring Lahbab: Oasis and Camel Farm
The journey includes stops at a desert oasis and a camel farm, adding a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline of dune-bashing. These stops are more than just photo ops; they offer glimpses into traditional desert life. A reviewer mentioned enjoying the introduction to Arabian culture, which is woven into these moments. You might get a chance to observe how camels are still vital to desert transport, and the oasis provides a serene break amidst the sand dunes.
Sunset in the Desert
The timing of the trip allows for witnessing a stunning desert sunset—a moment that many find truly magical. The view of the sun dipping behind the dunes offers picture-perfect scenery, with some reviewers commenting on how “beautiful” and “unforgettable” the sunset was. It’s a peaceful pause before heading to the Bedouin-style camp.
Bedouin Camp and Activities
The camp itself is designed to resemble a traditional Bedouin village, giving visitors an immersive cultural environment. Here, you can enjoy a camel ride, which many reviews praise as a “must-do” for the full desert experience. Interestingly, some reviews mention that guides take photos of guests during the camel ride, adding a personal touch.
If you’re feeling adventurous, sandboarding is available—an activity that thrill-seekers find particularly fun. Although quad biking is not included, you can opt to pay for an ATV ride, adding an extra layer of excitement.
Cultural Shows and Henna Tattoos
As the evening progresses, guests are treated to live performances—belly dancing, tanoura (a traditional spinning dance), and fire shows. Reviewers report these as “entertaining,” providing a glimpse into Middle Eastern culture through lively, colorful acts. The option for henna tattoos is also available, giving you a chance to take a small piece of the experience home.
Dinner and Refreshments
The highlight for many is the buffet dinner, which features unlimited soft drinks and a BBQ. The quality of the food and the relaxed atmosphere make it a good value, especially when combined with the diverse entertainment. While some reviews don’t elaborate on the menu, the emphasis on buffet style dinner suggests a range of options suitable for different tastes, including vegetarians, who should advise during booking for special accommodations.
Drop-off and End of Tour
After a fulfilling evening, the tour concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel, wrapping up a seven-hour journey that balances adventure, culture, and comfort. The group size is limited to seven travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Analyzing the Value
For $60 per person, this tour offers a lot. The inclusion of hotel pickup, drop-off, unlimited refreshments, and multiple entertainment options makes it a solid deal. Compared to standalone activities like dune bashing or camel rides, this package saves time and money while providing a broader overview of desert life.
The guides’ professionalism—noted especially in reviews praising Malik and Umar—adds value, as they help navigate the activities smoothly and share insightful commentary. The tour’s structure may feel somewhat rushed for those wanting to linger longer at each stop, but for most travelers, the quick-paced nature ensures a memorable day without feeling overly hurried.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Dress comfortably and bring a hat or sunglasses for sun protection during daytime activities.
- If you’re vegetarian, remember to specify this when booking to ensure suitable meal options.
- Be prepared for some movement during dune bashing—it can be bumpy, so hold on tight!
- If you want photos during the camel ride or sandboarding, ask your guide—many reviews highlight guides taking beautiful pictures.
- Photo opportunities abound, especially at sunset and during live performances. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
- The tour is suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind that it’s a group experience with a limit of seven people per vehicle.
The Sum Up
This Premium Desert Safari delivers a well-rounded glimpse into Dubai’s desert environment, combining adventure, culture, and entertainment at a reasonable price. The variety of activities, from dune bashing to live shows, makes it ideal for those wanting a full desert day in a single package. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the area.
If you’re after a fun, value-packed experience that balances adrenaline and culture, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors and families who want safe, guided fun in the desert without the hassle of organizing each activity separately.
In short, this safari offers a memorable peek into Dubai’s desert life—delivered with professionalism and a lively touch. Just be ready for some bouncing dunes and lively performances, and you’ll leave with plenty of photos and stories to tell.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Dubai hotel, making logistics straightforward.
How long does the entire tour last?
The experience is approximately 7 hours, giving you plenty of time for activities and relaxation.
Are there vegetarian options available?
Yes. You should advise during booking if you require a vegetarian meal, and the buffet dinner can accommodate this.
Can I do quad biking during the tour?
Quad biking is not included in the package but can be arranged at an extra cost if you wish to ride an ATV in the desert.
What kind of performances can I expect at the Bedouin camp?
Enjoy live belly dancing, tanoura, and fire shows—entertainments that showcase Middle Eastern culture in a lively setting.
Are children suitable for this tour?
While most travelers can participate, note that child seats are not included, and the tour is most comfortable for older children who can handle the vehicle ride and activities.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for warm weather, along with sunglasses and sun protection, is recommended. During cooler months, bring a light jacket for the evening.
This detailed review should help you confidently decide whether this desert adventure aligns with your travel style. With a focus on authentic, fun, and well-organized experiences, the Premium Desert Safari promises a memorable day in Dubai’s stunning sands.
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