Dubai: Desert Safari, Camel Ride, Show & Optional Dinner

If you’re considering a desert adventure in Dubai, you’re in for a treat with the Dubai Desert Safari offered by Excursion Point Tourism. This tour promises a taste of traditional Bedouin life mixed with adrenaline-pumping activities, stunning sunset views, and lively entertainment. It’s perfect for those who want a well-rounded experience that captures the essence of Dubai’s vast sands without costing a fortune.

Our review highlights two things we love: the expertly guided dune bashing that gets your heart racing and the authentic cultural shows that add a memorable touch to the evening. One possible consideration is the duration of the trip, which can extend up to 7 hours, so it’s best suited for those with flexible schedules and a love for adventure.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of thrill, culture, and good value for money—all in a setting that’s uniquely Dubai.

This experience made our article of 16 Best Dining Experiences In Dubai (With Prices).

Key Points

• Affordable price at just $24 per person offers excellent value for a full desert experience.
• Multiple options available, including morning or evening tours, with or without dinner and VIP seating.
• Highly praised guides like Mohammed, Sheru, and Nasir contribute to memorable, safe adventures.
• Dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding deliver adrenaline and authentic desert fun.
• Live shows and traditional entertainment create a lively, Arabian night atmosphere.
• Flexible pickup options ensure convenience, with some hotels requiring private transfers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Dubai Desert Safari

Starting the Adventure: Pick-up and Transportation

The journey begins with hotel pickup right in Dubai, making your day easy and hassle-free. The tour providers are known for punctuality and friendly service, with many reviews highlighting the professionalism of drivers like Shehzad, Mohammed, and Nasir. If you’re staying at specific resorts such as Al Maha, Bab Al Shams, or Dubai Parks, you’ll need to opt for private transfers, so plan accordingly.

The transportation is in modern 4WD vehicles, which are designed to handle the desert terrain comfortably. The drive itself is part of the fun, as it sets the tone for the adventure ahead. The group sizes are generally not specified but are described as private or shared options, giving you flexibility for more intimacy or socializing.

Dune Bashing: Heart-Racing Sand Thrills

One of the most popular highlights is the dune bashing—about 30-40 minutes of spirited driving over the Lahbab sands in a modern Land Cruiser. This activity is often compared to a rollercoaster ride, with sharp turns and dips that will certainly get your adrenaline flowing. Reviewers consistently praise their guides for smooth, safe driving, even as they navigate the dunes with skill and humor.

This is not just about thrill; the scenery is breathtaking. The sun setting over the sands creates a palette of orange and gold hues, perfect for photos. Several reviews mention how the guides are careful to explain each step and ensure everyone’s safety, making it suitable even for first-timers.

Sandboarding and Camel Rides: Balance of Adventure and Tradition

After the dune bashing, you’ll have the chance to try sandboarding—gliding down the dunes on a board for about 15 minutes of pure fun. It’s a quick activity but delivers a good dose of excitement, especially for those who love a bit of adrenaline.

A short camel ride is also included, giving you a taste of the traditional “ships of the desert.” Even if brief, this ride offers a gentle, authentic experience that complements the more frenzied activities. Many reviewers mention how well-behaved the camels are and how the guides help make it enjoyable for everyone.

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Cultural and Leisure Activities at the Desert Camp

The desert camp is where the experience truly becomes immersive. Here, you can don traditional Arab attire for photos and partake in henna painting, which adds a personal touch to your visit. The camp environment offers a variety of photo opportunities—with falcons, Bedouins, and vibrant performances—highlighted by a live belly dancing and Tanoura whirling dancers.

Some travelers, like Mireille and Michelle, praise the friendly staff and the cultural authenticity, noting how the entertainment enhances their understanding of Arabian traditions. The camp also allows you to smoke shisha, adding to the relaxed, social atmosphere.

Dining: Food, Drinks, and Entertainment

The optional BBQ buffet dinner is often lauded for its quality and variety, with vegetarian options available. Many reviews mention how tasty the Arabic cuisine is, with some describing it as the highlight of their evening. The live entertainment continues during dinner, creating a lively, festive environment that’s perfect for unwinding after the day’s adrenaline.

Soft drinks, tea, and coffee are usually included, but alcohol is not part of the package, though it can be purchased separately. The fire shows and dance performances round off the night, transforming the desert camp into a stage of visual spectacle.

Timing and Flexibility

The tour typically lasts 4 to 7 hours, with options to choose a morning session without dinner or an evening experience with dinner and shows. Pickup times are confirmed 24 hours in advance, and options for private or shared transfers provide flexibility depending on your group size and privacy preference.

The tour is suitable for most, but not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or individuals with back or heart issues. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hats, and bring a camera to capture the stunning views.

Value for Money and Overall Impression

At just $24 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the range of activities, the professional guides, and the quality of entertainment. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which elevate the experience from a simple desert ride to a memorable adventure. Many travelers also appreciate the photo services and the opportunity to try various traditional activities.

While it’s a full-day experience that can stretch to nearly 7 hours, the variety of activities keeps it engaging. The dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, cultural shows, and dinner combine to present an authentic taste of Dubai’s desert life—perfect for first-time visitors and those looking to tick off a bucket list experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This desert safari is ideal for adventure seekers eager for dune bashing and sandboarding. It’s also suited to culture enthusiasts who enjoy music, dance, and traditional crafts like henna. Families with children over 5 will find it fun and safe, especially with guides like Mohammed and Sheru providing friendly supervision. Budget travelers will appreciate the affordable price point, while those craving a relaxed, immersive experience will love the camp atmosphere.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or medical concerns that prevent them from participating in physical activities or long drives. If you prefer a quieter, less activity-heavy experience, you might find the lively shows and bustling camp a bit overwhelming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup from Dubai hotels is included, with private transfer options available for specific resorts like Al Maha and Dubai Parks.

How long does the tour last? Expect between 4 and 7 hours, depending on the package you select and your pickup location.

Are vegetarian options available? Yes, the BBQ dinner includes vegetarian choices, and you should advise at booking if needed.

Is alcohol served during the tour? No, alcoholic drinks are not included but can be purchased separately at the camp.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues? Unfortunately, this tour isn’t recommended for wheelchair users or those with back or heart problems, given the physical nature of activities and vehicle rides.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and a camera are essential. Luggage or large bags are not allowed at the camp.

Are there age restrictions? Yes, children under 5 are not suitable, and pregnant women or individuals with certain medical conditions should consider their health before booking.

This Dubai desert safari delivers a lively, authentic experience that hits the sweet spot between adventure, cultural discovery, and value. You’ll love the skilled guides, the stunning scenery, and the variety of activities that cater to different interests. It’s a fantastic way to spend part of your Dubai trip, especially if you’re craving an adrenaline rush and a glimpse into Bedouin traditions—all without breaking the bank.

For those who want a full-day adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and entertainment, this tour ticks all the boxes. Couples, families, and first-timers will find it a memorable highlight, while seasoned desert travelers might appreciate the friendly guides and relaxed camp atmosphere. Just be ready for a long day, packed with fun, and leave with plenty of fantastic memories—and perhaps some new photos to show off back home.

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