Wow Arabian Nights Tours Desert Safari Program with BBQ Dinner

Dubai’s desert landscape is one of the most iconic sights to see in the UAE, and what better way to experience it than with a desert safari that combines adrenaline, culture, and entertainment? This tour by Arabian Nights Tours earns a perfect 5.0 rating from over 400 reviews, attracting travelers who want a full-on desert adventure packed into 5 to 6 hours.

We love that this experience offers dune bashing, traditional Bedouin-style activities, and a BBQ dinner complemented by live entertainment—all in one seamless package. The fact that hotel pickup and drop-off are included makes it convenient, especially if you’re already staying in Dubai. However, a potential consideration is that the tour’s timing starts at 3:00 pm, which might be late for those wanting an early start or shorter day trip. This tour is best suited for travelers keen on experiencing authentic Arabian hospitality while enjoying adrenaline-filled activities and cultural shows.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with dinner, snacks, water, and entertainment.
• Dune bashing done with a professional driver for safe but exhilarating rides.
• Bedouin-style camp offers varied activities like camel rides, henna, shisha, and traditional attire.
• Live shows including belly dance, Tanoura dance, and fire acts provide authentic entertainment.
• Flexible cancellation policy: free if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness and families, as long as children are accompanied by adults.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Timing

Your adventure kicks off at 3:00 pm with hotel pickup, which is super convenient, especially if you’re busy exploring Dubai during the day. The entire experience lasts around 5 to 6 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed. The group size can go up to 290 travelers, but the experience still feels personalized thanks to professional guides and drivers.

Dune Bashing on Red Dunes

The highlight for many is the dune bashing, where a skilled driver takes you over the big, red sands of Dubai. This activity is described as exhilarating—you’ll feel the thrill of bouncing over the dunes while taking in spectacular desert views. One reviewer reminisced about the “crazy” dunes, mentioning that it was “a little scary but amazing”. The driver’s expertise ensures safety, but be prepared for some strong G-forces if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Camel Rides and Sandboarding

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll get opportunities for camel riding—a classic desert activity that offers a more relaxed pace and fantastic photo ops. Sandboarding is also available, giving you a chance to slide down the dunes like a pro (or at least try to). These activities are perfect for those wanting to connect with desert traditions and capture memorable moments.

Bedouin-Style Camp Activities

Once in the camp, the atmosphere shifts to calm and cultural. Here, you can smoke shisha, get traditional henna tattoos, or take photos dressed in Arabic robes and headscarves. Several reviews note the authenticity of this setup, with one traveler mentioning how they loved the “traditional Arabian hospitality”.

Entertainment and Dinner

As the sun sets, the desert transforms into a stage for live performances. Expect belly dancing, Tanoura spinning, and sometimes fire acts—each adding to the vibrant desert night. Guests generally find the shows entertaining and lively, enhancing the cultural feel.

The BBQ dinner is served in a buffet style, featuring various grilled meats, salads, and traditional sides. It’s generally considered good value, with reviews mentioning that the food was enjoyable—though some note it may not be gourmet but perfectly satisfying after a day of adventure. Drinks like alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, which is a bonus for those wanting to unwind with a cold drink.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One traveler shared that they “loved every minute”, despite being a little nervous about the dunes, and praised the stunning views throughout the trip. Another highlighted the “exhilarating dune driving” as a standout, with the evening culminating in a traditional summer evening with dancing. On the other hand, there was a less positive review where a guest was disappointed due to a missed pickup, illustrating the importance of confirming bookings and communication.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Arrive early or double-check pickup times to avoid missing the tour.
• Wear comfortable clothing, especially since some activities like sandboarding and camel rides involve contact with the sand.
• Bring sunglasses and sunscreen for the daytime drive, as the desert sun can be intense.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, inform your driver—they’re experienced at making the dune bashing as smooth as possible.

Value for Money

At $80 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded package that combines adventure, culture, and entertainment. Given that it includes dune bashing, camel rides, henna, shows, dinner, snacks, and water, many find it offers excellent value—especially when considering the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The inclusion of live entertainment and traditional activities adds cultural depth that many other tours may lack, making this a memorable way to experience Dubai’s desert side.

It’s worth noting that quad bike rides are available but not included in the base price. If you’re craving even more adventure, you might want to pay extra for this option. Also, souvenirs like photos or DVDs are available for purchase if you want keepsakes of your night under the stars.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive desert experience—combining fun activities, culture, and entertainment—all in one outing. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for a safe, lively, and authentic taste of the UAE desert. Those with moderate physical fitness will enjoy most activities, but keep in mind the dune bashing can be intense for some. If you’re seeking a relaxed, cultural evening or a thrill-seeking adventure, this tour offers a solid balance.

The Sum Up

The Wow Arabian Nights Tours Desert Safari program offers a thorough, well-paced, and authentic desert experience that captures the essence of Dubai’s desert culture. You get to enjoy dune bashing with a professional driver, relax in a Bedouin-style camp, and marvel at live belly and Tanoura shows—all topped with a barbecue dinner that satisfies after a day of adventure.

If you’re after stunning desert views, a taste of Arabian hospitality, and a variety of activities that cater to different tastes, this tour is a fantastic choice. The combination of adrenaline, culture, and entertainment makes it a value-packed experience for most travelers. Just remember to confirm your pickup and arrive with an open mind ready to enjoy Dubai’s enchanting desert nights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying in Dubai.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, starting at 3:00 pm.

Are there activities suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The activities like camel rides and shows are family-friendly, but physical activity levels vary.

Can I cancel my booking if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, plus sunscreen and sunglasses for daytime. Dress appropriately for the desert climate.

Are drinks like alcohol included?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included but are available for purchase at the camp.

This desert safari offers a well-rounded taste of Dubai’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a culture lover, this tour provides a memorable adventure that’s hard to beat for the price.