Dubai Evening Desert Safari: Dune Bashing, Camel Rides & BBQ Under the Stars
Escape Dubai’s skyline for an evening in the Lahbab red dunes: dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides and a BBQ camp complete with falconry and live dance. This 6–7 hour sunset safari blends hands-on adventure with cultural touches — ideal for time-conscious travelers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time your arrival for sunset
Book an afternoon pickup to catch golden-hour dunes and avoid midday heat; sunset photos are best 30–45 minutes before dusk.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for sandboarding
Sports shoes give better traction for boarding and protect feet from hot sand and dune traverses.
Hydrate before and during the trip
Drink water before pickup and use the provided bottled water at the camp — desert dehydration comes quickly in warm months.
Respect animal interactions
Observe handlers’ instructions for camels and falcons; photo ops are allowed but avoid sudden movements that may startle animals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ask for the sunset photo stop away from the main camp to avoid crowds
- •Try the short guided walk across a low dune ridge for a different perspective on wind patterns
Wildlife
- •Desert fox (occasionally at dusk)
- •Feral camels and native birds such as larks
Conservation Note
Operators increasingly limit off-track driving to protect dune vegetation; visitors should avoid littering, stay on guided routes, and limit use of single-use plastics.
The Lahbab area lies along historical Bedouin routes used for trade and seasonal grazing; modern safaris are a recent tourism adaptation of traditional desert life.
What to Bring
Sunscreen & sunglassesEssential
High SPF sun protection and UV sunglasses for open-dune exposure during late afternoon.
Sturdy sports shoesEssential
Closed-toe shoes help with sandboarding and walking on shifting sand.
Light fleece or windbreaker
Desert nights can be cool; a light layer is useful after sunset.
Power bank and camera
Phones drain quickly with photo use — bring backup power to capture sunset and camp performances.
Common Questions
What time does pickup and drop-off occur?
Pickup is scheduled about 45 minutes before the tour start; drop-off is at the end of the 6–7 hour experience back at your hotel or agreed location.
Is sandboarding or quad biking included?
Sandboarding and a short camel ride are included; quad biking is typically optional and self-driven at additional cost and participant risk.
Are children allowed to ride camels?
Children can ride but those under 12 must be accompanied by an adult; age restrictions apply for quad biking and self-drive activities.
What food is served at the camp?
A BBQ dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options is provided, alongside traditional Arabic coffee, sweets and dates.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness; expect short walks on sand, standing at camp, and bumpy 4WD rides
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