When visiting Dubai or any part of the UAE, an evening desert safari with BBQ dinner is a must-do experience. It’s the perfect way to blend thrill, tradition, and relaxation into a single memorable outing. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, this activity offers something for everyone. From dune bashing over golden sand dunes to enjoying an authentic Arabian BBQ under a star-lit sky, this tour gives you a true taste of the desert in every sense—literally and figuratively.
The experience usually begins in the late afternoon, when you’re picked up from your hotel in a 4×4 vehicle. These vehicles are specifically equipped to handle the challenging terrain of the desert, and the drive itself is part of the thrill. As you leave the city behind, the high-rises slowly give way to vast, open sands, offering a complete change of scenery. The real excitement kicks in once you hit the dunes. Dune bashing is not for the faint of heart—it’s an exhilarating ride as your skilled driver takes you up and down steep dunes at various speeds, creating the sensation of a natural roller coaster in the sand.
Once the adrenaline rush of dune bashing settles, the safari makes a stop so guests can watch the desert sunset. The scene is magical: as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, it casts shades of orange, pink, and gold across the expansive sands. This moment is perfect for photography or simply for taking in the serene beauty of the desert. The silence and stillness of the desert during sunset offer a sense of calm and wonder that contrasts beautifully with the earlier action.
From there, the next part of the evening unfolds at a traditional desert camp. These camps are usually modeled after Bedouin settlements and give guests a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. As you arrive, you’ll be welcomed with Arabic coffee and dates—a traditional gesture of hospitality in Emirati culture. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with low seating arrangements, lantern lighting, and colorful cushions placed around open areas where the night’s activities take place.
Before dinner, guests can participate in a variety of traditional and fun desert activities. Camel riding is a popular option, giving you a taste of how people used to travel across the desert centuries ago. You can also try sandboarding—gliding down the dunes on a board—or take photos with falcons, an iconic bird in Arabian culture. For those looking to relax, you can sit back and enjoy a shisha (hookah), or have a henna artist apply intricate designs on your hands or arms.
Then comes the highlight of the evening—the BBQ dinner. Most camps offer a buffet-style dinner with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. You can expect grilled meats such as chicken tikka, lamb kebabs, and beef skewers, accompanied by salads, rice dishes, and traditional Arabic sides like hummus and tabbouleh. Freshly baked Arabic bread and sweet desserts such as luqaimat (fried dough balls drizzled in date syrup) often round out the meal. The food is usually freshly prepared on-site, giving you the feeling of a genuine outdoor feast in the heart of the desert.
As you dine, the entertainment begins. Most camps feature live performances such as belly dancing, Tanoura dance (a traditional spinning performance), and sometimes fire shows. These performances are not just captivating; they also offer a cultural immersion that reflects the rich history and artistry of the region. The combination of food, music, dance, and the surrounding desert creates a truly unforgettable ambiance.
Now let’s talk about the price. The cost of an evening desert safari with BBQ dinner varies depending on the tour provider, package inclusions, and level of luxury. On average, prices range from AED 150 to AED 550 per person (approximately $40 to $150 USD). A standard package in the lower price range usually includes hotel transfers, dune bashing, camel rides, BBQ dinner, soft drinks, and live entertainment. It offers great value for travelers looking for a comprehensive experience without breaking the bank.
For those who want a more upscale experience, premium or VIP packages are available. These may include private transfers, reserved seating, table service for dinner, unlimited beverages, longer camel rides, and even quad biking. Premium packages generally range from AED 300 to AED 550 ($80 to $150). Some luxury options also include professional photography, falcon shows, or gourmet food selections. These packages are ideal for couples, families, or anyone looking to make their evening even more special.
It’s also worth noting that some providers allow for additional add-ons at extra cost, such as extended quad bike rides or dune buggy experiences. Alcoholic beverages, if available, are typically not included in the base price and must be purchased separately at the camp. Seasonal promotions and group discounts are also common, so checking with tour operators in advance can help you find the best deal.
What truly makes the evening desert safari with BBQ dinner worth every dirham is the balance it offers: high-octane adventure, deep cultural experiences, and quiet moments of reflection under the open sky. The desert itself has a special kind of beauty—vast, silent, and majestic. Experiencing it in the comfort of a guided tour, with food and entertainment, transforms it from a natural wonder into a full sensory journey.
In conclusion, the evening desert safari with BBQ dinner is not just a tourist activity—it’s a memorable encounter with the soul of the Arabian desert. Whether you’re riding dunes at full speed, enjoying slow bites of grilled meat under the stars, or watching a dancer spin to the rhythm of traditional drums, you’re engaging with a side of Dubai that goes beyond the skyscrapers and shopping malls. It’s an experience that offers adventure, culture, and relaxation—all in one magical evening.
