Private Desert Excursion with camel ride Sandboard & BBQ Dinner

Planning a desert trip in Dubai? This private desert tour promises a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation—perfect for those wanting a personalized, authentic experience. With a consistent 5-star rating from over 50 reviews, it’s clear this excursion hits the right notes.

What we love about this experience? First, it offers a private, tailored journey—no crowded groups here. Second, the variety of activities like camel riding and sandboarding keeps it exciting. Lastly, the delicious BBQ dinner under the stars is the perfect way to wind down.

However, a potential consideration: this tour’s price of roughly $300 per group might seem steep for some, but given the exclusivity, personalized service, and included activities, many find it offers excellent value.

This trip works best for couples, families, or small groups who seek a blend of adventure and culture without the hassle of sharing the experience with strangers.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with a dedicated guide ensures a flexible and intimate adventure.
• Adventure-Filled Activities: Camel rides, sandboarding, and dune bashing offer adrenaline and fun.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Bedouin traditions and enjoy local hospitality.
• Gourmet Dinner: A BBQ feast under the stars adds a magical touch.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup make the day seamless.
• Highly Rated: Consistent 5-star reviews and personalized guides enhance satisfaction.

Exploring the Journey: What to Expect from the Tour

The Pickup & Initial Drive

Starting around 3:00 pm, the experience begins with hotel or residence pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned SUV. This is a smart move—you won’t be trudging to a meeting point in the blazing heat. The route is scenic, with the driver setting the tone for an exciting afternoon, often accompanied by interesting commentary about the desert landscape.

Stop 1: Lahbab – The Heart of the Dunes

Your first stop is Lahbab, home to the iconic red sand dunes. Here, the real fun kicks off. The highlight? A dune bashing session of about 35-40 minutes with a professional driver. This isn’t just a bumpy ride; it’s an adrenaline rush as your driver expertly navigates the soft sands, sometimes weaving up and down the towering dunes. Many reviews highlight the skill and friendliness of guides like Sultan and Maroof, who make the experience both thrilling and safe.

Once you’ve had your fill of the bumpy ride, it’s time for a camel trek. As one reviewer put it, the camel ride offers a chance to feel the rhythmic sway of these gentle giants while soaking up the vast, almost surreal silence of the desert. It’s a moment of serenity after the adrenaline.

Sandboarding: Carving Your Path

For those craving a different kind of thrill, sandboarding down the dunes is available. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned slider, guides ensure everyone’s safety and fun. Think of it as snowboarding, but on softer, warmer sands—an experience many describe as “exhilarating” and “a must-try.”

Sunset & Cultural Stops

As the sun begins to dip, the desert transforms into a canvas of warm hues. Reviewers often mention how beautiful the golden light feels, especially during the photography moments. You might also get a chance to indulge in Heena tattoos or enjoy some aromatic shisha, adding a touch of traditional Bedouin hospitality.

The Starry BBQ Dinner at Al Awir

The final act takes place at Al Awir, where an al fresco BBQ dinner awaits under a canopy of stars. The buffet features grilled meats, fresh salads, and aromatic spices, catering to both vegetarians and meat lovers. Many reviews praise the quality of the food—not just standard fare but dishes prepared with care.

This dinner isn’t just about the food; it’s about the ambiance. The gentle desert breeze, the quiet night sounds, and the glow of the campfire make it a memorable experience. Reviewers especially mention the live entertainment and Arabic music adding a festive touch.

The Return & Drop-Off

The tour concludes with a smooth drive back to your hotel, typically around 10 pm. The entire day offers a well-rounded mix of adrenaline, culture, and relaxation, making it a full-value adventure.

The Experience in Detail: Why It Works

Transportation & Timing

The use of luxurious, air-conditioned SUVs guarantees a comfortable ride, especially important in Dubai’s heat. Being picked up directly from your hotel minimizes hassle and maximizes your sightseeing time.

Starting at 3 pm gives you ample time to enjoy the afternoon activities and sunset views. The total duration of about 7 hours is enough to experience the desert thoroughly without feeling rushed.

Activities That Stand Out

Camel rides and sandboarding are the key highlights, according to reviews. Many guests appreciated the guides’ expertise and friendliness, which enhanced the overall experience. One reviewer noted, “Hashim our tourist guide is a wonderful person,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide to truly enjoy the desert.

Dune bashing is often described as “exciting” and “skilful,” with professional drivers like Sultan and Maroof making sure everyone feels safe while having fun. The desert wildlife and panoramic views add to the sense of adventure.

Cultural & Authentic Touches

Guests often mention the Bedouin ambiance—from the traditional Heena tattoos to shisha and live Arabic music. These touches create a warm, hospitable atmosphere that elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Dining & Evening Atmosphere

The BBQ dinner offers more than just sustenance; it’s a culinary highlight. The international buffet with grilled meats and vegetarian options caters to all tastes, and the setting under the stars offers a tranquil, almost magical, dining experience.

Many reviewers have raved about the quality of the food and the friendly service, noting that it’s a great way to unwind after a day full of action.

Analyzing the Cost: Is It Worth It?

At roughly $300 per group (up to six people), the price might seem high, but it includes a private, all-inclusive experience: pickup, dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, dinner, and live entertainment. The personalized nature means you avoid the crowds and rigid schedules of group tours, adding significant value.

Compared to other desert adventures, this tour’s private setting and high-quality guides—many praised for their knowledge and friendliness—make it a worthwhile investment. The flexibility to customize aspects of the trip and the luxury of seamless transportation further justify the cost.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape, families with children, or small groups of friends wanting a personalized adventure. If you love adventure activities like dune bashing and sandboarding, combined with the chance to relax in a stunning desert setting with good food and entertainment, this tour is a perfect fit.

However, those on a tight budget or looking for a quick, less immersive experience might prefer more affordable or shorter options. Still, if you value quality, comfort, and tailored experiences, this tour ticks those boxes.

The Sum Up: The Bottom Line

This private desert excursion offers a well-rounded, high-quality experience that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation. The personalized guides and luxury transportation make it stand out among desert tours, especially if you’re looking for something more intimate and tailored.

The activities—dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding—are exciting yet safe, with guides making sure everyone feels comfortable. The BBQ dinner under the stars caps off the day perfectly, providing a genuine taste of Bedouin hospitality and Dubai’s warm evenings.

While the price might be a consideration, the value for money is clear when you factor in the exclusivity, high-quality service, and variety of experiences packed into one day.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to add a memorable adventure to your Dubai trip, this tour offers a fantastic way to see the desert from a local’s perspective, with plenty of fun and authentic moments along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup, dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, a BBQ buffet dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, live Arabic music, and hotel drop-off in Dubai.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 3 pm and concluding late in the evening.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s a private experience, meaning only your group participates. This allows for more flexibility and personalized attention.

What activities should I expect?
You will experience dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and enjoy cultural activities like Heena tattoos and shisha, culminating in a dinner under the stars.

Are there any extras not included?
Alcoholic beverages and ATV or dune buggy rides are not included, but you can often add ATV activities as an optional extra if available.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention kids enjoying the sand dunes and camel rides, making it a family-friendly adventure.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, along with closed-toe shoes for sandboarding and dune bashing, are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

How do I book and confirm?
Booking is simple through the provided platform, with confirmation received immediately after booking. Most travelers book about a week in advance.

This desert tour is a fantastic way to experience Dubai’s iconic sands with a personal touch. If you’re craving adventure, cultural richness, and a magical dinner under the stars, it’s hard to beat this well-reviewed, thoughtfully curated experience.