Planning a trip to Dubai often means ticking off the iconic skyline and luxurious shopping, but if you’re craving something a bit more adventure-filled, a desert safari can be just the ticket.
This particular tour, offered by Select Travel & Tourism LLC, promises a six-hour journey into the heart of the Arabian desert, complete with dune bashing, cultural entertainment, and a delicious BBQ dinner. It’s a popular choice, with bookings averaging nearly a year in advance, which says a lot about its appeal.
What sets this tour apart? First, the convenience of hotel pickup in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle ensures a hassle-free start. Second, the combination of thrilling activities like dune bashing and camel riding, along with authentic entertainment—belly dancing and fire shows—creates a well-rounded experience.
That said, one potential consideration is the group size, as it’s limited to just six travelers, making it intimate but possibly less flexible for larger groups.
This experience is perfect for adventure lovers, culture seekers, or anyone wanting a memorable evening outside the city’s glitz. Whether you’re on your first visit or a repeat visitor eager for a different perspective, this desert safari offers a wonderful blend of excitement and relaxation in a stunning natural setting.
- Key Points
- Analyzing the Experience: What to Expect
- The Pickup and Transportation
- Transition to the Desert
- Activities in the Desert
- Sunset Views
- Evening Entertainment and Dinner
- Drop-Off and The Sum Up
- Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights
- Practical Details: What You Need to Know
- Pricing and Value
- Duration and Scheduling
- Group Size and Booking
- Cancellation Policy
- Who This Tour Is Best For
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- The Best Of Dubai!
- More Dinner Experiences in Dubai
- More Dining Experiences in Dubai
- More Tour Reviews in Dubai
Key Points
- Comfort and convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off in a 4×4 make for an easy start and end to your evening.
- Variety of activities: Dune bashing, camel riding, henna painting, and live performances ensure there’s never a dull moment.
- Authentic entertainment: Belly dancing, fire shows, and Tanoura performances offer a genuine taste of Middle Eastern culture.
- Quality dining: A BBQ dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, plus unlimited soft drinks and shisha, caters to different tastes.
- Limited group size: Max of six travelers, fostering a more personal experience — but this might mean early booking is wise.
- Clear cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, offering flexibility for your plans.
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Analyzing the Experience: What to Expect

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The Pickup and Transportation
The tour kicks off at 3:00 pm, with a hotel pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle. This part of the experience is crucial because it sets the tone — you’ll be riding in style and comfort as you leave Dubai’s bustling cityscape behind. The small group size benefits those seeking a more personalized touch, making it easier for the guide to share insights and answer questions.
Transition to the Desert
Once in the desert, the adventure truly begins. The dune bashing in a powerful 4×4 is a highlight — a rollercoaster over the rolling sand dunes that can be exhilarating and sometimes a little bumpy. Several reviews praise the professionalism of the driver, noting the skillful handling of the vehicle which adds to the thrill without feeling unsafe. Expect a series of ups and downs, with plenty of photo opportunities of the shifting dunes and golden sunset.
Activities in the Desert
After the adrenaline rush, the tour offers a chance to try camel riding — a gentle, traditional experience that offers a different perspective of the desert landscape. Tourists seem to love this, citing friendly guides and a chance to take some memorable photos. Plus, henna painting provides a moment to relax and engage with local artistry, with many travelers appreciating the skill and patience of the artists.
Sunset Views
One of the most praised aspects of this tour is witnessing the Arabian sunset. As the sky shifts colors and the dunes glow with warm hues, you’ll want to have your camera ready. Several reviews mention how stunning the views are and how this part of the tour feels almost surreal, a perfect blend of natural beauty and peaceful silence.
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Evening Entertainment and Dinner
As the sun dips below the horizon, the scene shifts to a gathering under the stars. The entertainment is lively — belly dancers sway to rhythmic music, Tanoura dancers spin in colorful skirts, and fire shows dazzle with their daring displays. These live performances add an authentic touch, making the desert feel alive and vibrant.
The BBQ dinner is often described as delicious, with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Unlimited soft drinks and the option to smoke shisha further enhance the relaxed, festive atmosphere. Reviewers have highlighted the quality of the food as a high point, noting that it exceeds expectations for a desert safari.
Drop-Off and The Sum Up
After the evening’s festivities, you’ll be driven back to your hotel, with plenty of time to reflect on the day. The entire experience lasts around six hours, making it a well-paced outing that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

Many travelers agree that this tour offers well-organized fun, with professional guides and engaging hosts. One reviewer mentioned, “The driver kept us engaged and kept us up to date with events to come,” which underlines the importance of good leadership in creating a memorable experience.
Others emphasize the delicious food and live entertainment as the key highlights. One reviewer shared, “The food was delicious and the entertainment was good,” confirming that this isn’t just about thrill rides but also about savoring the culture and flavors of Dubai.
The small group setting garners praise for its intimacy, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention. For those who dislike large, crowded tours, this setup offers a chance to connect more authentically with guides and fellow travelers.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
Pricing and Value
At $53.04 per person, this tour offers solid value given what’s included: hotel pickup and drop-off, dune bashing, camel riding, henna, live shows, unlimited drinks, and a hearty BBQ dinner. When compared to other desert safaris, which can be pricier, this package strikes a good balance between cost and experience.
Duration and Scheduling
Starting at 3:00 pm, the tour lasts about six hours. This timing is ideal because it allows you to experience the desert during late afternoon, witness the sunset, and enjoy a lively evening without feeling rushed.
Group Size and Booking
With a maximum of six travelers, expect a more personalized experience, but this also means early booking is advisable to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind should your plans change unexpectedly.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This desert safari suits travelers looking for a well-rounded and authentic experience — those who want thrills, culture, and good food in a single evening. It’s also perfect for small groups who appreciate personalized attention. If you’re after a family-friendly adventure or a romantic outing under the stars, this tour fits the bill.
However, if you prefer more adrenaline or fewer activities, you might find this tour a bit packed. Likewise, travelers with mobility issues should consider the nature of dune bashing and camel riding.
Final Thoughts
For a reasonable price, this desert safari offers a comprehensive, enjoyable escapade into Dubai’s most iconic natural setting. With friendly guides, delicious food, and stunning sunset views, it’s a great choice for those wanting a slice of traditional Arabian adventure without sacrificing comfort. Its small group size fosters an intimate atmosphere, making your evening feel special and personalized.
This experience is particularly valuable for first-time visitors eager to capture the magic of the desert, or seasoned travelers wanting a relaxed yet exciting outing. It’s a balanced blend of thrill, culture, and relaxation that leaves many visitors eager to return.
Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner -Pick Up From Dubai Hotels
FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 3:00 pm with hotel pickup, ensuring you start your desert adventure in the late afternoon.
How long does the entire experience last?
It lasts approximately six hours, ending around sunset and well into the evening.
Is the group size small?
Yes, the tour caters to a maximum of six travelers, making for a more personalized experience.
What activities are included?
Activities include dune bashing, camel riding, henna painting, and live entertainment like belly dancing, fire shows, and Tanoura performances.
Is food included?
Yes, a BBQ dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options is provided, along with unlimited soft drinks and shisha.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Dubai hotel are included, in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor desert conditions is recommended. Consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but specifics depend on age and mobility. It’s best to check with the provider if traveling with young children.
How do I book?
Bookings can be made online through the provided platform, and early reservations are advised due to high demand.
To sum it up, this desert safari with BBQ dinner offers excellent value, a mix of adventure and cultural entertainment, and a chance to see Dubai from a different perspective. Whether you’re after a fun outing, a memorable photo opportunity, or a taste of local traditions, this tour deserves serious consideration.

























