Sunset Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner, Camel Ride, Belly Dancing from Dubai

Planning an evening in Dubai that takes you away from the skyscrapers and into the magical sands of the desert? This Sunset Desert Safari offers an affordable way to enjoy a blend of adventure, culture, and entertainment. With a 7-hour journey that includes dune bashing, camel rides, henna painting, and a lively camp with traditional shows, it’s designed to give travelers a taste of authentic desert life—and all for just $35 per person.

While the tour has many glowing reviews praising the guides, food, and overall experience, some travelers have encountered hiccups like late pickups or crowded camps. Still, if you’re after a fun, value-packed desert outing with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and cultural insights, this tour might be just what you need for a well-rounded Dubai adventure.

What We Love About This Experience

1. The Price Point: At only $35, this tour offers a surprising amount of activities, entertainment, and food, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers. Many reviews highlight the excellent value for money, especially considering the inclusions like dinner, drinks, and live shows.

2. The Scenic Dune Bashing: The highlight for many is the exhilarating 4×4 ride over the red dunes at sunset. The guides, like Ali who received rave reviews, are skilled drivers who make the dune bashing both exciting and safe. You get a true adrenaline rush while soaking in the stunning orange glow of the desert at dusk.

3. Authentic Cultural Entertainment: The evening camp is lively, featuring belly dancing, Tanoura dancers spinning their colorful skirts, fire shows, and traditional Arab music. Guests like Lina and Sarah speak highly of the entertainment and the welcoming vibe of the camp.

4. Delicious Food & Drink: The included BBQ buffet dinner, complemented by unlimited soft drinks and Arabic coffee, offers a satisfying end to the desert adventure. Reviewers mention the food as “very nice” and “good service,” making the experience feel complete.

A Few Considerations Before Booking

Some travelers have pointed out issues like missed pickups or long waits, which can impact your overall experience. For example, one review mentions waiting an hour in the heat due to vehicle changes, while another highlights unprofessional behavior from some guides. The camp can feel crowded, and some guests found the organized activities rushed or limited, especially the camel ride, which in some cases lasted only a couple of minutes unless upgraded.

It’s also worth noting that weather can impact the experience—bad weather might mean missing out on the BBQ or shows. Therefore, flexible cancellation policies are a plus, allowing you to reschedule or get a refund if conditions aren’t ideal.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Lahbab (3 hours)

The tour kicks off with a dune bashing adventure in the Red Desert of Dubai. You’ll hop into a 4×4 vehicle and bounce over the rippling sands with a professional guide. This part is what many travelers find most thrilling, as the driver expertly navigates the dunes, delivering a rollercoaster-like experience.

In reviews, guests love the timing of the sunset view from the high dunes—an orange glow casting shadows over the vast sands. One guest raved that their guide, Ali, made the drive both exciting and informative, sharing insights about Dubai and the desert landscape. Expect to snap plenty of photos as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a perfect backdrop.

Stop 2: RAH Desert Camp (4 hours)

Arriving at the camp, the activities shift to culture. Here, you’ll find camel rides, a must for many travelers, who describe it as a fun and authentic experience. Some reviews mention that the camel ride feels short unless you upgrade—many recommend paying a bit extra for a more comfortable or longer experience.

Guests also enjoy the henna painting, which is included in the package. It’s a lovely way to get a traditional souvenir, and a chance to take beautiful photos in local costumes. The camp boasts a barbecue buffet dinner, with plenty of food and soft drinks, all included in the price, which many find excellent value. The crowd can be busy, but the staff strives to keep everyone satisfied.

Live Entertainment and Atmosphere

As the evening progresses, the camp springs to life with live performances. You’ll see belly dancers, spinning their colorful skirts with grace, and the Tanoura dance, where performers twirl in vibrant costumes—a highlight for many. Fire shows add an exciting element, with performers executing daring tricks to music.

Multiple reviews praise the entertainment, describing it as “very good” and “welcoming.” Some guests like Lina and Sarah mention that their guides, like Amjad, were particularly accommodating and knowledgeable, enriching the cultural experience.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned 4×4, which adds comfort and convenience, especially after a day of exploring. The group size is generally small, capped at 14 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience and easier interaction with guides.

Some reviews mention early morning or late pickups, so it’s best to confirm your pickup time and location in advance. The 2:00 pm start time is ideal for catching the sunset, but be prepared for possible delays, as some guests experienced late pickups or vehicle swaps.

Value for Money

Given the $35 price tag, this safari packs a lot of activity and culture into one evening. The inclusions—dune bashing, camel rides, henna, dinner, and live shows—make it a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive desert experience without spending a fortune.

However, some guests found the experience a bit crowded or felt the camel rides and activities were rushed unless they paid for upgrades. Still, many reviewers agree that the overall experience is worth the price, especially when considering the quality of entertainment and food provided.

Authenticity and Guides

Guests consistently praise guides like Ali and Amjad for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. Ali, in particular, seems to stand out, with reviewers describing him as “amazing” and “skilled,” making the journey educational and entertaining.

Guides often share insights about Dubai, the desert, and local customs, adding depth to what might otherwise be a superficial experience. Their friendliness helps create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, even amid busy camps and crowds.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, with bookings typically made 19 days ahead.
• Arrive prepared for heat: Evenings can be warm, so dress comfortably and bring sunglasses or a hat.
• Upgrade if possible: For a longer or more comfortable camel ride and better seating, consider paying extra at the camp.
• Bring your camera: The sunset views and live performances are highly photogenic.
• Confirm pickup details: Some reviews mention late pickups; double-check your pickup time and location.
• Be patient: Expect some waiting times or vehicle changes, especially during busy periods.

The Sum Up

This sunset desert safari from Dubai offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment at a very appealing price point. You’ll enjoy the thrill of dune bashing, the charm of a camel ride, and the vibrant energy of traditional performances—all within a well-organized, friendly setting. The included dinner and drinks add to the value, making it a practical choice for travelers who want to experience the desert without breaking the bank.

While some reviews highlight issues like late pickups or crowded camps, most guests find the overall experience enjoyable and authentic. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, families, or anyone looking for a fun, budget-friendly way to connect with Dubai’s desert landscape.

If you’re after a lively, well-rounded desert evening that balances adventure with cultural sights and sounds, this tour ticks many boxes. Just keep expectations aligned—some moments might be rushed, but overall, it’s a memorable outing.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned 4×4, making transportation easy and comfortable.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 2:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sunset and evening activities.

How long is the dune bashing?
The dune bashing in the Red Desert lasts about three hours, providing plenty of excitement over the rippling sands.

Are meals included?
Yes, a barbecue dinner buffet with unlimited soft drinks and Arabic coffee are included in the price.

Can I upgrade my experience at the camp?
Yes, many guests recommend paying extra for VIP seating, which offers more comfortable sofas and better access to the buffet.

What entertainment is included?
Guests will see belly dancing, Tanoura dance, fire shows, and traditional Arab music, all performed live at the camp.

This desert safari offers a lively, affordable taste of Dubai’s desert culture, perfect for those seeking fun, sightseeing, and a bit of adventure—all wrapped into one engaging evening.