Dubai Trio: Desert Safari, Marina Dhow Cruise & City Tour with BBQ
Move from glittering skyline to wind-sculpted dunes on a compact two‑day Dubai package: a half‑day city tour and dhow cruise followed by an evening desert safari with BBQ and live entertainment. Practical, scenic and culturally rich—best when timed for sunset.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate before and during the desert visit
Temperatures—especially in summer—rise quickly; carry water and refill where offered to avoid dehydration.
Dress modestly for mosque and public areas
Carry a scarf or lightweight layer to cover shoulders and knees; long sleeves and trousers are recommended for mosque entry.
Prepare for motion and bumpy rides
Dune bashing involves steep, fast 4x4 maneuvers; if you get motion sick, take medication ahead of time and sit toward the center of the vehicle.
Plan photo timing for the dhow cruise
Board the evening dhow cruise around sunset for the best skyline silhouettes and softer light for photography.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early morning walk through Al Fahidi (Bastakiya) courtyards for calm photography
- •Short abra ride across Dubai Creek to sample local fish restaurants and spice shops
Wildlife
- •Desert lizard species (e.g., geckos) near campsites
- •Feral Arabian oryx sightings are rare but possible in protected reserves
Conservation Note
Tour operators are increasingly limiting off‑track driving and promoting responsible camel handling; avoid leaving litter and follow camp guidance to minimize impact.
Dubai grew from a 19th‑century trading port on the Dubai Creek; its pearling and trading past shaped the souks and historic Al Fahidi neighborhood visited on the city tour.
What to Bring
Sunscreen & broad‑brim hatEssential
High SPF and a hat protect you from intense sun during daytime city stops and desert activities.
Comfortable closed‑toe shoesEssential
Good traction for short walks in souks and stable footing for dune or camel areas.
Reusable water bottle with filterEssential
Stays hydrated during excursions and reduces single‑use plastic in the desert.
Light scarf or shawlEssential
Useful for modest dress at religious sites and as an evening layer in the desert.
Common Questions
Is hotel pickup and drop‑off included?
Yes — the tour typically includes roundtrip transfers from most Dubai hotels; confirm your pickup time and location when you book.
Are children allowed on the tour?
Children can participate; infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap and some activities like dune bashing may be unsuitable for very young children.
Can pregnant travelers join the desert safari?
This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the bumpy nature of dune bashing and some camp activities.
Is alcohol provided on the dhow cruise or at the desert camp?
The published inclusions list dinner and refreshments and notes shisha in the desert; alcohol availability varies by operator and venue—ask when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended—able to handle short walks, standing, and rough vehicle rides during dune bashing
Ready to Explore Dubai?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now