Dubai is a city of contrasts—ultra-modern skyscrapers set against timeless desert landscapes. And if you’re looking to escape the urban buzz for a few hours and immerse yourself in the culture, nature, and adventure that the UAE is famous for, the Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner is the perfect experience. It’s an activity that seamlessly blends thrill, tradition, and relaxation, all set in the golden dunes of the Arabian Desert. But before booking, many travelers ask the same question: What’s the price of the evening desert safari with BBQ dinner, and is it worth it? This blog will answer that and walk you through everything included in this unforgettable evening.The adventure typically begins in the late afternoon with a convenient hotel pickup in a 4×4 vehicle. As you leave the city behind, the scenery transforms from modern highways to endless sand dunes. The drive is smooth, and the anticipation builds as you approach the desert.The first major highlight of the tour is dune bashing—a thrilling off-road experience that involves driving at high speeds over sand dunes in a Land Cruiser or similar SUV. With experienced and licensed drivers at the wheel, you’ll race up and down the rolling hills of sand, offering a heart-pounding ride that’s as exciting as it is scenic. This activity alone is a major reason why many choose the desert safari, and it sets the tone for the rest of the evening.Following the adrenaline rush, the safari often includes a short camel ride, giving you a chance to experience the traditional mode of desert transport. It’s a peaceful contrast to the high-speed dune bashing and offers a great photo opportunity. Depending on your package, you may also get access to sandboarding, where you can slide down the dunes on a board—like snowboarding, but with sand.Once the action-packed part of the tour winds down, guests are taken to a Bedouin-style desert camp, beautifully decorated with Arabic carpets, lanterns, and seating areas. This is where the cultural experience begins and the setting for the highly anticipated BBQ dinner. Before dinner, you can enjoy optional activities such as henna painting, trying on traditional Arab clothing, or relaxing with shisha (hookah) in a designated lounge area.Then comes the culinary highlight—the BBQ dinner buffet. The food spread is generous and typically includes a variety of grilled meats such as chicken, lamb, and beef, along with salads, rice, Arabic breads, dips like hummus and moutabal, and a selection of desserts like baklava and fresh fruit. Most camps offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, and beverages like soft drinks, water, tea, and coffee are usually included. Alcoholic drinks are available at some camps for an additional cost.As you enjoy your meal, you’ll be entertained by live cultural performances. This usually includes belly dancing, Tanoura dance (a traditional whirling dance in colorful costumes), and a fire show. These performances add a cultural dimension to the evening, providing not just entertainment but a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the region.After the shows, guests often take time to stargaze, relax, or take a few final photos before being driven back to their hotels. The entire experience typically lasts about 6 to 7 hours, starting in the late afternoon and ending around 9:00 or 9:30 PM.What’s the Price?The Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner is surprisingly affordable, especially considering everything it includes. Here’s a breakdown of typical pricing in Dubai:Standard Safari Package: AED 150–250 per personIncludes: Shared hotel transfers, dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding (in some packages), BBQ dinner, soft drinks, and live entertainment.Premium Safari Package: AED 300–450 per personIncludes: All of the above plus VIP seating, enhanced dinner options, shorter queues for activities, and better facilities at the desert camp.Private Safari or Luxury Package: AED 600–1,000+ per personIncludes: Private 4×4 vehicle, upgraded menu, exclusive seating area, and personalized service. Great for couples or families looking for a more intimate experience.Optional Add-Ons:Quad Biking: AED 150–250 per person for 20–30 minutesDune Buggy Ride: AED 300–700 depending on vehicle and durationFalcon Photography: AED 30–50 per photoAlcoholic Beverages: AED 30–60 per drink (if available)Prices may vary slightly depending on the tour operator and season, but generally, the evening desert safari with BBQ dinner offers excellent value for the experience provided.Why It’s Worth ItThe Evening Desert Safari is one of Dubai’s most popular excursions—and for good reason. You’re not just paying for a meal or a few hours of entertainment. You’re experiencing the desert, one of the UAE’s most iconic landscapes, through a variety of activities and cultural interactions. The combination of adventure, authentic food, and entertainment makes it one of the most well-rounded and enjoyable tours in the region.Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic evening under the stars, or a family looking for a fun-filled outing, this tour has something for everyone. Plus, with multiple pricing tiers and customizable options, it’s easy to find a package that fits your interests and budget.Final Tips Before BookingBook in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like winter and holidays.Read reviews of tour operators to ensure quality and safety standards.Confirm inclusions—make sure your package covers everything you want.Dress comfortably, and bring a light jacket in cooler months.
Final Thoughts
The Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner is a complete experience that offers a perfect blend of thrill, tradition, and taste. It’s not just a dinner or a ride through the sand—it’s a journey into the cultural and natural soul of Dubai. With prices starting as low as AED 150, it’s an accessible, memorable adventure for travelers of all kinds. If you’re planning a visit to Dubai, this should be right at the top of your to-do list.
