Safari and Barbecue Dinner in the Dubai Desert

Planning a trip to Dubai often means marveling at towering skyscrapers and luxurious malls. But if you want to see a different side of this vibrant city, a desert safari combined with a traditional BBQ offers a fantastic escape from the urban landscape. This tour, offered by Desertour Tourism DMC, promises an engaging mix of adrenaline, culture, and mouthwatering food — all wrapped into a 5 to 6-hour experience.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic desert activities like dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and traditional entertainment, all at a remarkably reasonable price of just $70.22 per person. Plus, the trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free adventure. The reviews consistently rate it 5 stars, praising the organization, guides, and overall value.

While the tour offers a rich tapestry of activities, one thing to keep in mind is that it’s a group experience with a maximum of 100 travelers, which could mean some waiting during busy periods. Overall, it’s best suited for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and food lovers eager to experience the desert’s magic without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Comprehensive desert experience: dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and more.
• All activities included: no hidden costs for thrill rides or entertainment.
• Convenience: hotel pickup and drop-off make the day smooth.
• Authentic culture: traditional dance shows, henna tattoos, and Arabic coffee.
• Great value: a mix of adventure, food, and culture for a reasonable price.
• Highly rated: 13 reviews with a perfect 5-star rating.

A Detailed Look at the Dubai Desert Safari & BBQ Tour

Starting Off — Convenient Pickup & First Stops

The adventure kicks off at 2:30 pm with hotel pickup, ensuring you avoid the hassle of finding your way to the desert. You’re transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a nice touch considering the desert heat.

Your first stop is the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where you spend about 45 minutes. This spot offers a gentle introduction to the vast sands, with a short 15-minute walk and a chance to enjoy some refreshments. It’s a peaceful start before the more thrilling activities begin. Reviewers have appreciated the smooth organization here, with some noting they felt well cared for from the start.

Thrilling Sand Dunes & Quad Biking Options

Next, you arrive at Al Aweer, where the optional quad biking or buggy rides await. They last about 30-40 minutes and are available for an extra fee paid on the spot. This is a favorite among thrill-seekers; a reviewer called it “a great experience, unforgettable,” and praised how the guides were always nearby to help. This optional activity means you can tailor your adventure—if you’re after pure relaxation, you can skip it without feeling left out.

Dune Bashing in the Empty Quarter

The highlight for many is the dune bashing session through the Empty Quarter. In a 4×4, you’ll bounce across the high dunes, feeling that surge of adrenaline as the vehicle sweeps over the sand. One reviewer described it as “like skating on a car,” capturing the thrill perfectly. The 40-minute ride is fast-paced but safe, with a stop in the middle of the desert to watch the sunset—a moment that many find breathtaking and worth capturing.

Camp Activities in Lahbab

The final stretch takes you to a traditional Bedouin-style camp in Lahbab. Here, for about two hours, you can enjoy camel rides, try henna tattoos, sip Arabic coffee or tea, and watch three traditional dance shows — Tanura, belly dance, and fire dance. Several reviews highlight how the sunset views alone are worth the trip, with one traveler noting, “the color of the setting sun on the fine sand will impress you.”

The camp atmosphere offers ample opportunities for photos, traditional dress-up, and tasting authentic Arabic sweets. Guests love the effort to recreate a Bedouin experience, with many reviews pointing out the friendly staff and well-organized entertainment.

Dinner & Cultural Immersion

The sunset dinner is an open BBQ buffet, with a wide selection of grilled meats, salads, and traditional dishes. Reviewers frequently mention the good quality of food and the relaxed atmosphere. Some commented that the dinner was “interesting” and “delicious,” with the variety providing enough for different tastes.

Along With the food, the camp offers soda, dates, Arabic coffee, and sweets—a true taste of Middle Eastern hospitality. For many, the dinner elevates the evening, making it feel complete with both entertainment and nourishment.

Transport & Group Size: What to Expect

The tour’s group size maxes out at 100 travelers, which makes it lively but also manageable. The shared transportation is air-conditioned and comfortable, a big plus considering the long day. The timing is structured to maximize activity without feeling rushed, with each stop carefully planned.

Reviews often mention the professionalism and friendliness of guides, especially Walid, who is singled out as attentive and concerned with providing a memorable experience. The whole experience is well-organized, with many reviewers praising the punctuality and smooth flow of the day.

What About Costs?

At $70.22, this tour offers exceptional value considering the wide range of activities. The included meals, transfers, and entertainment make it cost-effective compared to booking each element separately. Optional extras like quad biking are paid on the spot, allowing flexibility for those who want a little more adrenaline.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• All activities included, saving money and hassle
• Stunning desert views and sunset photography opportunities
• Professional guides who are attentive and knowledgeable
• Authentic cultural experiences like henna tattoos and traditional dance shows
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off

Cons:

• Limited free time for individual exploration
• Optional activities like quad biking cost extra, which might surprise some travelers
• Group size can be large, which may affect intimacy for some

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

Multiple reviewers highlight how well-organized and friendly the guides are. Walid, in particular, receives high praise for his care and professionalism, with one reviewer noting his immediate response and kindness during their trip. Guests also mention how the variety of entertainment in the camp—like Tanura, belly, and fire dances—are performed professionally, adding a lively cultural touch to the evening.

One traveler summed it up saying, “The Safari was crazy! I adore it! Everything was very well organized!” and emphasized the “delicious dinner and artistic moments.” That mixture of adrenaline and cultural entertainment seems to resonate with many, offering a well-rounded experience.

Insider Tips from Reviewers

• Don’t miss the sunset photo stop—it’s one of the most treasured moments of the trip.
• The traditional dress-up and henna tattoos are free and fun to try, especially for photos.
• If you’re interested in quad biking, plan to pay on the spot and try to arrive early to avoid long queues.
• The guides’ attentiveness and local knowledge elevate the entire experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Dubai desert safari and BBQ delivers on adventure, culture, and value. It’s a perfect fit for those who want to combine exciting activities like dune bashing and camel riding with the chance to relax in a traditional camp setting. The included dinner, lively entertainment, and professional guides make it ideal for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.

Travelers seeking a balanced mix of adrenaline and culture will appreciate the well-organized itinerary and authentic touches. It’s also a great choice for groups or families, thanks to its structured schedule and inclusive features.

However, if you prefer a more exclusive, intimate experience or are on a very tight budget, this tour’s group size and optional extras might be less appealing. Still, with its great reviews and affordable price point, it remains one of the best options for exploring Dubai’s desert.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, a BBQ dinner, bottled water, soda, dates, Arabic coffee, tea, and sweets. Activities like camel riding and sandboarding are available at the camp.

Are the activities suitable for all ages?
Most activities, such as camel riding, dune bashing, and henna tattoos, are suitable for most travelers. Moderate physical fitness is recommended, especially for dune bashing and sandboarding.

Can I skip the optional activities?
Yes, activities like quad biking and buggy rides are paid on the spot and optional. You can enjoy the rest of the experience without participating.

What is the best time to enjoy the sunset in the desert?
The sunset stop is a highlight for many, offering stunning views of the sky turning vibrant colors over the dunes. The tour is scheduled to arrive at this spot in mid to late afternoon, so you’ll be able to witness this natural spectacle.

How long is the dinner in the camp?
The dinner and entertainment in the camp last approximately two hours, giving ample time to enjoy the food, watch dance shows, and take photos.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour generally suits most travelers with moderate physical fitness, but specific age restrictions are not provided. It’s best to consider your comfort with dune bashing and outdoor activities.

How do I book the tour?
You can book this tour in advance, typically 27 days ahead on average. It features mobile tickets, so you can easily present your booking upon arrival.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Word

This Dubai desert safari with BBQ dinner is more than just a day in the dunes — it’s an adventure packed with opportunities for fun, culture, and stunning scenery. From the professional guides and lively entertainment to the delicious food and breathtaking sunset views, it offers great value for travelers eager to see the desert’s wild side without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Ideal for adventure lovers, cultural explorers, or anyone wanting a memorable desert outing, this tour balances excitement with authenticity. Whether you’re after adrenaline or a relaxing evening under the stars, it’s a trip that promises genuine fun.