Dubai Red Dunes Safari: Dune Bashing, Camel Ride & BBQ Night
Ride the red dunes east of Dubai for a high-adrenaline dune-bashing session, short camel rides, henna, and a BBQ under lantern light. This 6–7 hour evening excursion pairs off-road thrills with traditional entertainment and easy logistics from Dubai.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear closed, grippy footwear
Sand temperatures and uneven footing at the camp and dune photo stops make closed shoes essential for comfort and safety.
Bring sun and dust protection
A brimmed hat, sunglasses and a lightweight buff protect from low-angle sun and wind-driven sand during the dune run and sunset stop.
Motion-sickness precaution
If you’re prone to nausea, take antiemetic medication before the dune-bashing portion — runs can be fast and bouncy.
Know the health restrictions
This experience is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or serious heart conditions due to the dune-bashing element.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ask for the higher photo-stop dune on the return leg for unobstructed sunset angles
- •Try a short walk beyond the camp perimeter after dinner for clearer stargazing away from lights
Wildlife
- •Desert hare and lizards
- •Domesticated camels and occasional desert fox sightings
Conservation Note
Stick to designated tracks and the camp area to avoid trampling fragile desert plants; pack out all non-biodegradable waste and respect local wildlife.
The dunes are part of the Arabian coastal desert shaped by millennia of wind; the camp experience borrows Bedouin hospitality traditions like camel travel, dates and tea.
What to Bring
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Protect feet from hot sand and provide traction on uneven ground.
Sunscreen and sunglassesEssential
Crucial for sun protection during late-afternoon driving and the sunset photo stop.
Light jacket or shawl
Evenings can be cool after sunset, especially in winter months.
Motion-sickness remedy
Useful for anyone sensitive to the fast, bouncy motions of dune bashing.
Common Questions
How long is the safari door-to-door?
Expect roughly 6–7 hours total from hotel pickup to return; the scheduled activity runs about 4–5 hours including transfers.
Is the camel ride long?
Camel rides are short introductory rides typically 5–10 minutes intended for photo opportunities and a brief experience.
Are vegetarian options available at the BBQ?
Yes — the desert camp buffet usually includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices; notify the operator of dietary requirements when booking.
Can children participate?
Children can join but infants must sit on laps during vehicle transfers; the bumpy dune-bashing may not be suitable for very young kids.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required — mostly short walks and seated transport; must tolerate vehicle movement and sandy terrain.
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