If you're planning a trip to Dubai, one experience that should not be missed is the evening desert safari with BBQ dinner. This tour combines the thrill of desert adventure, cultural immersion, and a delicious meal under the stars. As Dubai is a city of extremes — from its towering skyscrapers to its vast desert landscapes — the evening desert safari offers a perfect contrast. It’s an opportunity to leave the city behind and explore the vast desert with a series of exciting activities, all culminating in a traditional Arabian BBQ dinner.
What’s Included in the Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner?
The evening desert safari typically starts in the late afternoon, with a pick-up from your hotel or a designated location in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle. As you drive out of the city, the towering buildings and busy streets of Dubai soon give way to an expansive desert landscape, where the golden sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see. The journey from the city to the desert takes about 45 minutes, and along the way, your guide will share interesting facts about the desert ecosystem, as well as information on the various activities you’ll enjoy during the tour.
Upon arrival, one of the most exhilarating parts of the tour begins: dune bashing. This activity involves riding over the sand dunes in a 4x4 vehicle driven by an experienced driver who expertly navigates the dunes with speed and precision. The adrenaline rush as you climb steep dunes and slide down at a thrilling angle is something you’ll never forget. The combination of adventure and the stunning desert scenery makes dune bashing one of the highlights of the evening.
After the exhilarating dune bashing, the tour pauses for a photo stop, allowing you to capture the surreal beauty of the desert at sunset. The warm golden light as the sun sets over the dunes provides a perfect backdrop for photos and offers a tranquil moment to appreciate the peacefulness of the desert landscape.
The next part of the tour takes you to a traditional Bedouin-style desert camp. Here, you can experience the rich culture and heritage of the Arabian Peninsula. Upon arrival, you’re welcomed with Arabic coffee and dates — a traditional gesture of hospitality in the region. At the camp, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, such as a camel ride across the desert, trying on traditional Arabic clothes for photos, and even getting a henna tattoo. There are also opportunities to relax and enjoy a shisha (hookah) session while taking in the desert atmosphere.
As the evening settles in, the real highlight of the tour — the BBQ dinner — begins. The dinner is typically served as a buffet, featuring a wide variety of grilled meats like chicken tikka, lamb kebabs, and beef skewers. Alongside these savory dishes, there are also rice dishes, fresh salads, bread, dips like hummus and mutabbal, and a selection of desserts. The meal is prepared fresh on-site, and guests are invited to enjoy it under the stars, with soft lighting, lanterns, and a cozy, authentic setting that mimics the desert traditions of old.
While dining, the camp comes alive with live entertainment. This typically includes a Tanoura dance — a mesmerizing performance where the dancer spins in a brightly colored skirt, followed by a belly dancing performance. Some camps also offer a fire show, adding an extra layer of excitement to the night. These performances are not only entertaining but also provide a window into traditional Arabian culture.
Price of the Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner
When considering the evening desert safari with BBQ dinner, pricing can vary depending on the time of year, the tour company, and the type of package you choose. On average, the price for a standard package ranges from AED 120 to AED 250 ($33 to $68) per person. This typically includes the following:
- Transportation to and from the desert
- Dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle
- Camel ride
- BBQ buffet dinner
- Live entertainment (Tanoura dance, belly dancing, and fire show)
Additional services such as VIP seating, private vehicle transfers, and optional activities like quad biking or sandboarding may raise the price. For instance, VIP packages can range from AED 300 to AED 450 ($82 to $123) per person, which offers premium experiences such as private tables and personal waiters. Some companies also offer children’s rates, typically around AED 100 to AED 125 ($27 to $34), and infants under 3 years often join for free.
It’s important to note that prices can fluctuate depending on the season, with peak periods like Christmas, New Year, and Eid holidays seeing higher prices. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during these busy times, to secure the best rates and availability.
Why Choose the Evening Desert Safari?
The evening desert safari offers the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It provides a rare opportunity to experience the desert’s beauty, enjoy authentic Arabian food, and immerse yourself in the region’s traditions. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, the safari provides something for everyone — from adrenaline-pumping dune bashing to cultural performances and relaxing under the stars.
Moreover, the BBQ dinner adds a special touch, turning the experience into a feast for both the senses and the stomach. The combination of delicious food, live performances, and the tranquil desert ambiance makes this tour an ideal choice for those seeking a unique and memorable experience in Dubai.
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