Dubai: All Inclusive Desert Safari with ATV, Camel, Horse ride, Vip & more

Introduction

Our review takes a close look at the Dubai: All Inclusive Desert Safari with ATV, Camel, Horse Ride, VIP & More—a full-day adventure that promises more than your average desert trip. Offered by Desert Thrill, this tour combines exciting activities, cultural experiences, and a hearty meal, making it a great option for those who want to get a well-rounded taste of Dubai’s desert.

Two things we especially like about this tour are the wide range of activities, including some you won’t find on most safaris—like horseback riding and ATV adventures—and the well-organized mix of adventure, culture, and entertainment that ensures there’s something for all.

One consideration worth noting is the length of the day—at around 6 hours, it’s a full commitment, so it suits travelers eager for a comprehensive experience rather than a quick jaunt.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balance of adrenaline, cultural interaction, and relaxation—perfect if you’re visiting Dubai and want an authentic desert adventure that feels both fun and immersive.

Key Points

• Diverse activities: Includes ATV, camel, and horse rides—more than most desert safaris.
• Cultural elements: Henna, Arabic attire, falcon interaction, and traditional performances.
• All-inclusive value: Transfers, meals, shows, and activities are covered in one package.
• Well-organized itinerary: Combines adventure with downtime for photos, shopping, and relaxing.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with options for those seeking excitement or culture.
• Full-day experience: Lasts approximately 6 hours, perfect for making the most of your desert day.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

What the Tour Includes and Why It Matters

This safari is priced at around $164.50 per person, which at first glance might seem high, but considering the extensive activities and inclusions, it offers good value. Everything from pickup to drop-off is covered, with transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4WD. That means you won’t have to worry about navigating or organizing separate transport—just show up and enjoy.

The Itinerary in Depth

Pickup and Transfer
Most travelers will be met at their hotel or an agreed-upon location, with most bookings made about a week in advance. The ride to Lahbab Desert is smooth, and the driver acts as your guide—sharing tidbits about Dubai’s surroundings along the way.

Lahbab Desert – Dune Bashing and ATV
The adventure begins in Lahbab, known for its longer-than-usual sand dunes. Here, your driver will prepare for dune bashing, a high-energy ride over the soft, reddish dunes that will have you bouncing and laughing. It’s a thrilling way to start, especially if you haven’t experienced off-road driving before.

Next, you’ll get a 30-minute quad bike (ATV) ride. We loved how this self-driven experience adds a layer of adrenaline and independence. A safety briefing ensures you’re prepared, but once you’re riding, the thrill of zooming over the dunes is hard to beat. Several reviews praised this part—one said, “Excelente atención por parte del guía y una gran experiencia,” highlighting the care taken and how memorable the ride was.

Stop at Al Awir – Cultural and Relaxation Time
After the adrenaline rush, it’s off to a desert camp. You’ll be greeted with Arabian coffee and sweets, a nice touch to start the culture. Here, you can try henna tattoos, wear traditional Arabian clothes, and even meet a falcon—a highlight for many, as it offers a chance for photos with these majestic birds.

A short camel ride around the camp adds a traditional desert flavor, and many travelers find this a charming contrast to the high-energy dune bashing. One reviewer mentioned being at “a very beautiful moment” just being in the desert, which captures the peaceful side of this trip.

The Evening Entertainment and Dinner

The centerpiece of the desert camp is the buffet BBQ dinner, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, served in an inviting setting. While you enjoy your meal, you’ll be treated to live performances including Tanoura dancing, fire shows, and the Ladies Khaliji dance—which many reviews note as highly entertaining.

Please note that during Ramadan or certain Islamic dates, some shows may be unavailable, but the atmosphere remains festive. Many guests appreciate the delicious food, describing it as “great”, and the variety of entertainment keeps the evening lively.

Additional Activities and Cultural Touches

Throughout the evening, you can take photos with a falcon, wear Arabian attire, and participate in shisha smoking if you wish. The henna painting for women is a nice, relaxing activity, and the Sunset photostop offers a perfect chance to capture the desert’s stunning colors.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

The tour’s group size can be up to 150 travelers, but reviews suggest the experience remains enjoyable, thanks to attentive guides and well-maintained vehicles. The transportation in a fully insured, licensed land cruiser with safety features like seat belts and roll bars adds peace of mind.

Booking in advance, typically 7 days ahead, ensures a smooth process. The tour operates from 2:00 pm, making it perfect for afternoon and evening activities, especially if you want to combine it with a morning city tour.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the attention to safety and organization. One mentioned, “The desert drivers are well-trained and licensed,” which reassures first-timers.

Many reviewers highlight the delicious food and entertainment, with one stating, “Excelente atención por parte del guía y una gran experiencia,” underlining the quality of service. The cultural interactions, like falcon photography and Arabian dress-up, add a meaningful touch that elevates the experience from just a thrill ride.

The balance of adventure and culture makes this tour appealing, especially for those wanting a full-day summary of Dubai’s desert life—from adrenaline rushes to relaxing entertainment and authentic dining.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This safari is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to try ATV riding and horseback in addition to traditional dune bashing. If you enjoy cultural activities, local food, and lively performances, you’ll find plenty to love here. Families, couples, or groups of friends will appreciate the variety and inclusiveness of activities, making sure no one feels left out.

Those who prefer a more relaxed, scenic experience might find the high energy of dune bashing a bit intense, but overall, this tour offers a well-rounded peek into Dubai’s desert.

While it’s a full-day commitment, most agree the value justifies the price, especially considering the wide range of included activities and meals. Just remember to bring casual clothing, sun protection, and an appetite for fun and adventure.

FAQs

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Yes, most pickups are included, and the tour offers pickup and drop-off from various Dubai locations.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 6 hours, with the start at 2:00 pm and activities spread throughout the afternoon and early evening.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the BBQ buffet includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices.

What safety measures are in place for the ATV ride?
A safety briefing is given before riding, and the quad bikes are operated in a controlled environment.

Can I participate if I don’t like adventure activities?
Yes, there are cultural activities like henna, photo sessions with falcons, and cultural dress-up that don’t require physical exertion.

Are shows affected during Ramadan or Islamic holidays?
Yes, entertainment shows like belly dancing and Tanoura dance may be unavailable during certain religious days, but the overall experience remains lively.

Is alcohol available during the tour?
Alcoholic drinks are not included but can be purchased at the desert camp.

What should I wear?
Casual, loose-fitting clothing is recommended for summer, with a jacket for winter. Comfortable shoes are advised for activities like camel and horse rides.

In summary, this Dubai desert safari offers a carefully curated blend of adventure, cultural experiences, and entertainment, all at a fair price point. It’s a solid choice for travelers looking to experience the desert in a lively, authentic way. Whether you’re after adrenaline, cultural insights, or simply a fun day out, this tour delivers with plenty of memorable moments.