Dubai Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner and Shows: A Detailed Review
Thinking about adding a desert adventure to your Dubai trip? This private Dubai desert safari offers a mix of adrenaline, culture, and entertainment, all wrapped into a 6-hour journey. It’s perfect for travelers craving a personalized touch, away from large group tours, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos and enjoy cultural performances.
What we love about this experience are the customized private service, the authentic cultural activities like henna and camel rides, and the delicious BBQ dinner with entertainment that caters to both vegetarians and meat lovers. The only thing to consider is that the sunset view isn’t always guaranteed, so if perfect lighting is your priority, plan accordingly.
This tour is well-suited for couples, families, or small groups who want to experience the desert in a more intimate setting, with the flexibility to choose activities based on their interests. If you’re after a genuine, memorable desert adventure with a personal touch, this could be just what you’re looking for.
Key Points
- Exclusive private tour offers a more personalized desert experience.
- Activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding provide a variety of fun options.
- Cultural performances such as belly dancing and Tanoura dance add authentic flavor.
- Flexible activity choices allow for customization based on your interests.
- BBQ dinner with vegetarian options ensures all guests are accommodated.
- Pickup from your Dubai accommodation simplifies logistics.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dubai
An In-Depth Look at the Dubai Desert Safari Experience
How the Tour Starts: Your Pickup and Ride Into the Dunes
The journey begins with a convenient pickup from your Dubai hotel, in an air-conditioned Land Cruiser. Since the tour is exclusive to your group (up to 6 people), the ride feels more intimate and less rushed than larger group excursions. Most travelers find this a real plus, as it allows for a more relaxed atmosphere and the chance to chat with your guide, who’s often praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
Once on board, you’ll head out into the desert, where the real excitement kicks in with a dune-bashing session. This off-road rollercoaster ride across endless sand dunes is the highlight for thrill-seekers, with many reviewers noting how attentive and skilled the driver is – Abbas and Nawaz are names that keep popping up as guides who go above and beyond, ensuring both safety and fun.
Sand Dunes and Photo Opportunities
As you bounce across the dunes, there are opportunities for photos — especially during a designated sunset stop. While the sunset isn’t always guaranteed, most guests agree the scenery is stunning enough at any time of day to make for beautiful pictures. The sweeping views of the desert are truly captivating, and many use this moment to capture memories.
Traditional Activities at the Bedouin-Style Camp
After the adrenaline rush, your private tour takes you to a Bedouin-style desert camp, where the cultural part of the experience begins. Here, you can enjoy a short camel ride, which many reviewers find to be a fun, authentic addition, even if brief. Sandboarding is also available for those wanting an extra adrenaline shot, with some guests mentioning they had fun trying it out for the first time.
The camp offers traditional henna painting and shisha (hookah), giving you a taste of local customs. One review highlighted how the guides, like Nawaz, went “up and beyond” to make sure everyone felt comfortable and enjoyed these cultural activities.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dubai
- Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise with Live Music & Open Bar
- Dubai Desert Safari with Quad Bike, Camel Ride, Dinner and Shows
- Top premium Desert safari with BBQ DINNER
- The Ghost Village Safari with Bedouin Camp and Barbeque Dinner
- Sunset Quad Bike Safari With Camel Trek, Live Shows and Dinner
- Dubai Desert 4×4 Safari with Camp activities & BBQ Dinner
Live Shows: Belly Dancing, Tanoura, and Fire Shows
As the evening progresses, you’ll be entertained by a series of live performances, each adding its own flavor to the night. The belly dance, Tanoura dance, and fire shows are often praised for their lively and mesmerizing displays. Reviewers mention that these performances are well-coordinated, and the artists genuinely seem to enjoy entertaining guests, adding a festive vibe to the dinner.
The BBQ Dinner: Delicious, Inclusive, and Enjoyable
No desert adventure is complete without a hearty meal, and this tour’s buffet BBQ dinner hits the spot. Guests rave about the variety of options, including both non-vegetarian and vegetarian dishes, ensuring everyone finds something to enjoy. Many say the food is “delicious” and well-prepared, with some appreciating the vegetarian options as much as the meat dishes.
The dinner is served in a relaxed setting, allowing for conversations and soaking in the desert night sky. Plus, the welcome snack, Arabic coffee, dates, and tea add a warm, hospitable touch early in the evening.
Transport, Timing, and Overall Value
The private Land Cruiser makes the entire experience smooth and comfortable, especially in the often hot and dusty desert environment. The duration of approximately 6 hours allows ample time for activities, photos, and entertainment without feeling rushed.
Starting at 2:00 pm, the tour covers late afternoon into evening — perfect for catching the sunset and enjoying the cooler desert air. Since the tour is private, you can tailor the experience, focusing on what interests you most, whether that’s the dune-bashing, cultural activities, or simply relaxing at the camp.
Priced at $350 per group (up to 6 people), the experience offers sound value for those seeking a personalized adventure with a mix of thrills and cultural authenticity. Compared to larger group tours, the private option ensures you’re not waiting around for others and can enjoy a more flexible itinerary.
What Reviewers Say
Guests consistently mention guides like Abbas and Nawaz, who are “excellent and very knowledgeable.” They go “above and beyond” to make sure everyone has a memorable and safe experience. Many also note the beautiful desert views and fun activities like sandboarding and camel rides as highlights.
Some mention that entertainment may be limited during Ramadan or public holidays — so if you’re visiting during these times, expect a quieter, more subdued evening.
Additional Costs and Considerations
While quad bikes, buggy rides, alcohol, and souvenirs are available for purchase, they are not included in the base price. This offers flexibility if you wish to extend your experience, though the core tour already provides plenty to enjoy.
The tour’s cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind if your plans change.
Who Should Book This Tour?
If you’re looking for a tailored, intimate desert experience, this private safari hits the mark. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or small groups who want to avoid the crowded feel of larger tours. The flexibility to choose activities makes it a great option for those with specific interests, whether that’s culture, photo opportunities, or adrenaline activities.
Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and genuine local performances will find this tour particularly rewarding. Plus, the comfort of private transportation and a delicious BBQ dinner** make it a well-rounded evening out.
The Sum Up
This private Dubai desert safari with BBQ dinner and shows offers a compelling mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The personalized service and flexible activities help create a memorable, authentic experience, all within a manageable 6-hour window. The guides’ attentiveness and the variety of entertainment make it well worth the price for those seeking a VIP desert outing.
Ideal for those who want a more exclusive, customized experience rather than a mass tour. If you value comfortable transportation, engaging guides, and a well-rounded evening in the dunes, this tour delivers on all counts.
While not a budget option, the value for money considering privacy, guides, and included activities makes it a worthwhile investment for a special desert adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the tour include?
It includes pickup and drop-off from Dubai hotels, dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, cultural activities like henna and shisha, live shows, and a BBQ dinner with vegetarian options.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The review mentions families and even kids enjoying the experience.
Can I customize the activities?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can focus on the activities that interest you most, whether that’s dune bashing, cultural activities, or relaxing at the camp.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and informally. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, especially during the daytime. Some guests bring a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.
Are there any restrictions during Ramadan or public holidays?
During Ramadan and dry days, no entertainment or alcohol is served, aligning with government guidelines.
How far in advance should I book?
This tour is often booked around 122 days ahead, so planning early is wise if you want to secure your preferred date.
In short, this Dubai desert safari blends adventure, culture, and entertainment into a seamless package. Perfect for those wanting a more personal, flexible experience in the stunning desert landscape.
More Safari Adventures in Dubai
More Private Tours in Dubai
More Tour Reviews in Dubai
Still browsing? Here are more Dubai experiences we've covered recently
- Abu Dhabi City Sightseeing (Private Tour)
- Arabian Candlelit : Private BBQ & Dune Bashing Getaway
- Sunrise View Desert Safari with Camel Ride & Sand Boarding
- MY Cruises for Luxury Yacht Rental
- Pleasure Scuba Diving in Fujairah for Certified Diver
- Private Yacht Experience From Dubai Marina
- Private Evening Desert Safari with Camel Ride, SandBoard & BBQ
- Can-am Maverick X3 RR Turbo | 192HP | 2 Seats | 2 Hours |
- Exciting Dubai Dune Buggy Safari & Sand Boarding & BBQ Dinner & Belly Dance Show
- VIP Dubai Desert Safari with Quadbike,Sandboarding & BBQ dinner
- Ski Dubai – Snow Fun Pass
- Private Full Day Liwa Desert Safari Tour with Lunch From Dubai