Ras Al Khaimah: Afternoon Desert Safari and BBQ Dinner

If you’re dreaming of a true Arabian adventure without breaking the bank, the Afternoon Desert Safari and BBQ Dinner in Ras Al Khaimah offers an enticing escape. With a solid 4.4-star rating from over 540 reviews, this tour combines off-road excitement, cultural touches, and a hearty meal—all wrapped up in about six hours of fun.

What makes this experience stand out are the stunning desert vistas, the knowledgeable guides, and the delicious, authentic food. It’s a great way to unwind, explore, and get a taste of Bedouin life, especially if you’re short on time but want a well-rounded desert experience.

A possible consideration is that some activities, like camel rides and shisha, are optional and sometimes not as long or extensive as one might hope. So, if you’re craving a full camel trek or a long shisha session, you might find these offerings somewhat limited. But overall, this safari is well-suited for families, couples, and solo travelers wanting a balance of adventure and culture.

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Key Points

Authentic desert adventure with a 4WD dune drive and sunset views
Multiple activities including camel rides, henna, sandboarding, and cultural performances
Great value for money with a full buffet dinner, unlimited drinks, and entertainment included
Knowledgeable guides like Salam and Naseer who enhance the experience
Ideal for families and those seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation
Limited alcohol options and optional activities for those with specific preferences

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The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

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Pickup and Journey to the Desert

Your adventure begins with hotel pickup—most likely in air-conditioned comfort, which is a blessing after a day in the heat. According to reviews, the pickup times can vary slightly, with some guests noting a shift from 15:30 to 16:30, but the tour operators seem flexible enough to accommodate. Once on board, the anticipation builds as you head toward the desert dunes, with your guide sharing insights about the landscape and local life.

Dune Drive and Sunset Viewing

The highlight for many is the dune bashing—a thrilling ride over the hills of moving sand. Experienced drivers like Salam and Naseer earn praise for their skill and friendliness, making the off-road portion both safe and exciting. As the sun begins to dip, you’ll reach a vantage point atop a towering sand dune to watch the sunset—an unforgettable moment that many reviewers described as “beautiful” and “stunning.” The soft glow of dusk transforms the desert into a photographer’s paradise.

Camel Farm and Optional Rides

Next, you’ll visit a traditional camel farm, where you can observe herds of these iconic creatures and learn about their role in desert life. Many guests, like Petra, appreciated the opportunity to see camels up close, and some found the short camel rides to be a fun, authentic touch—though a few mentioned they wished for longer rides.

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At the Campsite: Cultural and Leisure Activities

Arriving at the campsite, you’ll be greeted with Arabic coffee and dates, a warm local welcome. Here, options abound: you can hop on a camel for a guided tour, get your hands or feet decorated with henna, or try sandboarding—though some reviews point out that sandboarding might not always be available.

The camp also offers a chance to wear traditional Arabic costumes, adding a fun photo opportunity. Reviewers like Ganna and Sarah highlighted the friendly, relaxed atmosphere, where you can enjoy traditional Tanoura folk dance, belly dancing, and even smoke shisha if you wish. The entertainment is lively, colorful, and designed to give a taste of local culture.

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Dinner Under the Stars

The evening’s centerpiece is a barbecue buffet dinner, served under a canopy of stars. Expect a spread of grilled meats, Arabic bread, shawerma, and more—all included in your ticket price. Guests consistently praise the delicious food, with Romit calling it “really good” and Mariusz noting it as “worth the money.” Unlimited soft drinks, coffee, and tea keep everyone refreshed.

Nighttime Relaxation and Finale

Post-dinner, the atmosphere shifts to relaxed entertainment. Many guests enjoy the belly dance performance and Tannora dance, which add an enchanting, lively touch to the desert night. Some reviewers, like Sarah, appreciated the calm and starry ambiance—a perfect way to wind down after a busy day.

Deep Dive into the Experience

Off-Road Dune Bashing and Sunset Views

The dune drive is the star of the tour. Many reviewers found the ride exhilarating, noting guides like Salam and Naseer as particularly skilled and respectful. Fatema described the driver as “respectful and friendly,” which enhances the overall sense of safety and enjoyment. The sunset moment is frequently highlighted as one of the most memorable parts—the desert turns into a canvas of oranges and pinks, creating perfect photos and peaceful reflections.

Cultural Encounters

While many visits focus on the fun activities, the cultural touches are what elevate the experience. The henna painting, traditional dances, and chance to wear local costumes all add layers of authenticity to this trip. Petra’s comment about children loving every part of the trip suggests that families will find plenty to enjoy, from camel rides to dance shows.

Food and Beverage

The BBQ dinner consistently receives praise for its quality and variety. The shawerma station and Arabic bread add a local flavor, while unlimited drinks make the experience more relaxed. Some guests noted that alcoholic drinks are not included and must be purchased separately, while others found the soft drinks and coffee sufficient.

Entertainment and Night Atmosphere

The belly dancing and Tanoura performances are lively and colorful. Many guests, including Sarah, enjoyed the “great show,” noting that the performances are authentic and well-executed. The shisha corner is an optional addition for those wanting to unwind with a smoke, though some review comments suggest it’s more of a casual social spot rather than a long session.

Family-Friendly Aspects

Guests with children, like Petra, appreciated the tour’s accommodating nature—no problems with younger kids, and guides like Imram and Naseer are praised for their attentiveness. However, note that children under 4 need a private car if they are to participate, and some activities like camel rides or sandboarding might be brief.

Practical Details and Tips

The cost of $65 per person offers good value, considering the inclusions—activities, dinner, entertainment, and transportation.
The duration of about 6 hours makes it a manageable half-day adventure, perfect for those with limited time or as a day’s highlight.
Transportation is included—your hotel pickup and drop-off streamline the logistics.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, or individuals with back, neck, or heart problems. Always check with your health provider if unsure.
Tips and alcoholic drinks are not included—bring cash if you’d like to tip guides or purchase extra drinks.
The tour is available in English, and you can reserve with the option to pay later, providing flexibility.
Cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This desert safari is ideal for adventurers who love a blend of thrill and culture, especially those seeking a cost-effective way to experience the desert’s beauty with a touch of local flavor. Families will enjoy the variety of activities, and those interested in traditional entertainment will find the live performances particularly engaging.

If you enjoy stunning sunset views, flavorful food, and authentic cultural moments, this tour ticks all the boxes. However, if you’re looking for a longer camel trek or a more luxurious experience, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, including pickup, activities, dinner, and drop-off.

What activities are included?
Included are dune driving, sunset viewing, camel rides, henna painting, shisha, sandboarding, and cultural dances.

Is the dinner buffet vegetarian-friendly?
While the menu generally features grilled meats, Arabic bread, and shawerma, specific vegetarian options are not detailed but are often available at such buffets.

Can I buy additional activities?
Yes, activities like quad biking are available for extra charge, and some reviewers mentioned paying for longer camel rides or shisha.

Is alcohol served during the tour?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included and are generally not offered as part of the package.

Are children allowed?
Yes, but children under 4 require a private car, and activities like camel rides are suitable for most kids, though the short rides are generally considered more fun than lengthy.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which simplifies the experience.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women due to the dune drive and physical activities.

What should I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing suitable for the heat, with layers for the cooler desert evening. Closed shoes are recommended, and don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Ras Al Khaimah Afternoon Desert Safari and BBQ Dinner offers a well-rounded taste of the desert’s magic in a manageable, fun package. It features thrilling dune drives, cultural performances, and a delicious buffet, all topped with stunning sunset views. The knowledgeable guides, like Salam and Naseer, add a personal touch that many reviews highlight as a key part of the tour’s appeal.

While activities like camel rides and shisha are optional and sometimes brief, the overall experience is authentic, lively, and great value—especially for travelers wanting a snapshot of desert life. It’s perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone eager to enjoy the natural beauty and warm hospitality of Ras Al Khaimah’s sands.

Whether you’re looking to capture memorable photos, indulge in tasty local food, or simply relax under the stars, this desert safari is likely to meet and even surpass expectations.