Premium Desert Safari Dubai : Dune Bashing, Camel Ride with BBQ

Dubai’s desert offers one of the most iconic backdrops for adventure and culture. This Premium Desert Safari, offered by Extreme Dunes Adventures, has garnered near-perfect reviews for its mix of adrenaline, entertainment, and value. It’s a well-rounded experience that promises plenty of fun, relaxation, and photo-worthy moments — all within a 7 to 8-hour window.

What we love most about this tour is its comprehensive itinerary—covering dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and cultural shows—without the hassle of separate bookings. The included dinner with live performances makes the whole evening feel like a celebration, and the round-trip hotel transfers save you from any logistical headaches. The only thing to consider is that the tour is quite popular, so booking well in advance (about 20 days) is advisable if you want to secure a spot.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic yet organized desert experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’re adventure-hungry, into photography, or simply eager to soak up Dubai’s famous sands, this safari ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• All activities included: Dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, and more, with no extra fees.
• Convenient transfers: Hotel pick-up and drop-off ensure a stress-free day.
• Cultural entertainment: Enjoy live belly dancing, fire shows, and traditional Khaliji dances.
• Value for money: At just over $80, it offers a full day of fun and entertainment.
• Stunning scenery: The Lahbab Red Dunes are a highlight, perfect for photos and thrill-seeking.
• Authentic experiences: Henna tattoos, shisha, and traditional Gahwa add local flavor.

An In-Depth Look at the Dubai Desert Safari Experience

Starting Point: Pickup & Transportation

The adventure begins with hotel pickup in a 4×4 vehicle, which is included in the price. Guests consistently praise the ease of transportation, especially since the tour is designed as a private activity, meaning only your group participates. This helps maintain a friendly, intimate vibe, even in large groups.

One reviewer noted that the guides are English-speaking and licensed, making communication straightforward and ensuring safety during dune bashing and other activities. The transfer timing is generally smooth, and many mention that the comfortable journey is a good way to relax after arriving in Dubai’s bustling cityscape.

The Dune Bashing in Lahbab

The first stop takes you to the Lahbab Red Dunes, famous for their striking red hues and towering sand formations. This part of the tour is the main adrenaline rush — a 25-30 minute dune bashing session in a powerful 4×4 vehicle. The ride is described as “thrilling” by many, with some mentioning that their driver, who was also their guide, was professional and attentive, making sure everyone was comfortable yet excited.

For the more adventurous, sandboarding down the dunes is a highlight. Reviewers mention trying it multiple times and capturing incredible photos of the surrounding landscape — a perfect activity for thrill-seekers or those who love unique photo ops.

Optional quad biking is available if you want to extend your adrenaline rush, but keep in mind this isn’t included in the base price. Many guests felt the dune bashing alone was enough to satisfy their craving for excitement.

Sunset, Camel Rides & Photo Stops

As the day progresses, there’s a beautiful sunset stop where you can snap photos of the vast desert horizon, a moment many reviewers describe as mesmerising. A short camel ride is also included, offering a more relaxed, traditional desert experience. Although some noted that the camel rides are brief, they still provide a meaningful connection to local culture.

The Desert Camp & Evening Entertainment

After the adventure, you’ll arrive at a desert camp — a setup that, according to reviews, offers a good balance between comfort and authenticity. While one reviewer pointed out that the food at the camp was “far too little,” others appreciated the delicious BBQ dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The buffet is ample enough for most, and the variety satisfies different tastes.

The camp is lively with live entertainment including belly dance, Tanoura dance, Khaliji dances, and a fire show. Several guests mentioned how professional and engaging the performers are, making it a lively and festive atmosphere.

Additional Activities & Cultural Touches

Guests can get henna tattoos, smoke shisha in a designated area, and enjoy unlimited drinks — soft drinks, tea, coffee, and traditional Gahwa. These small touches help deepen the experience, making the evening feel more immersive and less rushed.

Overall Value & Experience

Many reviewers emphasize that this tour offers excellent value for the price. For around $83, you get a full day packed with activities, entertainment, and cultural snippets. The reviews highlight that guides are attentive, making sure everyone is safe and having fun, which is crucial in such adventurous settings.

Common Pitfalls & Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some guests have experienced delays and disorganization, especially during pickup and drop-off times. One person noted waiting over an hour after the camp to get a ride back, which can be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule.

A few reviews mentioned disappointments with the camel ride length or food portions, so managing expectations about these small details can enhance your experience. Also, bookings tend to fill up quickly, so plan ahead.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This safari suits adventure lovers who want a packed day of dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides. It’s a great choice for families, couples, or groups looking for a fun, all-in-one desert experience without the hassle of organizing separate activities.

If you’re after a cultural touch, the live entertainment and henna art add a nice local flavor. However, if you prefer a more private or exclusive experience, you might find the group setting slightly crowded.

Practical Details That Matter

• Duration: 7 to 8 hours, making it a full-day adventure without feeling rushed.
• Price: About $83.45 per person — excellent value considering everything included.
• Booking: Most travelers book approximately 20 days in advance, illustrating its popularity.
• Inclusions: Pickup/drop-off, dune bashing, sandboarding, camel ride, dinner, entertainment, and drinks.
• Extras: Quad biking available on request, and optional activities like ATV rides are separate.

FAQs

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Dubai hotel or selected location are included in the tour price.

What activities are included?
Dune bashing, sandboarding, a short camel ride, sunset viewing, henna tattoo, and cultural entertainment are all part of the package.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, the BBQ dinner includes vegetarian choices along with non-vegetarian options.

How long does the dune bashing last?
The dune bashing activity typically lasts between 25 to 30 minutes.

Can I extend activities like sandboarding or camel riding?
Sandboarding is included, and camel rides are short but included; quad biking is available on request for an extra fee.

What’s the approximate time to book ahead?
Most travelers book about 20 days in advance due to high demand.

Are there options for private tours?
This is a private group activity, but the experience is shared among your booking group only.

Is there live entertainment?
Yes, the camp features belly dance, Tanoura dance, Khaliji dances, and fire shows.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the desert climate. Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for daytime activities.

Final Thoughts

This Dubai desert safari offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment at a reasonable price point. The inclusion of all activities and transfers simplifies planning, making it accessible for most travelers. Expect thrilling dune bashing, beautiful sunset views, and lively evening shows, all within a friendly group setting.

While there can be occasional delays and some guests found the food portions small, these are minor compared to the overall value and fun. It’s especially suitable for those eager to experience Dubai’s iconic sands with safety, ease, and plenty of memorable moments.

Whether you’re snapping photos of the red dunes, laughing during a belly dance, or relaxing after a day of adrenaline, this tour covers many bases — with enough authenticity and excitement to make your desert adventure truly unforgettable.