Evening Abu Dhabi Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner & Dune Bashing
Trade skyline for sand on an evening Abu Dhabi desert safari: dune bashing, sandboarding and a hot BBQ under stars, with cultural touches like henna, a camel visit and traditional performances. It’s a compact, private experience timed for sunset spectacle.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate before you go
Drink plenty of water before departure and carry a small refillable bottle—the camp supplies water but heat and travel dehydrate fast.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Light hiking shoes or sneakers keep sand out and protect feet during short walks, boarding and camel mounts.
Bring sun protection
Wide-brim hat, sunglasses and SPF 30+ sunscreen are musts for late-afternoon sun and reflective sand.
Motion-sickness caution
Dune bashing can be intense—sit towards the middle of the vehicle and avoid heavy meals if prone to nausea.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet ridge photo point away from the main camp for uninterrupted sunset silhouettes
- •Visit to the nearby working camel farm for hands-on feeding and close-up photos outside staged shows
Wildlife
- •Camel
- •Arabian oryx (occasionally in protected areas)
Conservation Note
Stay on vehicle tracks and respect fenced dune-restoration areas; off-trail driving and litter can destabilize fragile dune vegetation and harm wildlife.
This coastal desert sits along historic Bedouin routes; camels were central to transport and trade, and traditional camps preserve elements of that nomadic culture.
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Protects feet on hot and shifting sand and offers grip for sandboarding.
Sunscreen & sunglassesEssential
High sun exposure and reflected glare from sand make protection essential.
Light layers or a windbreakerEssential
Desert temperatures can drop notably after sunset; a light layer adds comfort.
Compact camera or phone with extra battery
Sunset and campfire scenes offer strong low-light photo opportunities; bring spares.
Common Questions
How long is the pickup and return from Dubai?
Expect a full-day service running about 8–9 hours door-to-door; exact pickup time varies by booking but is timed to reach the camp before sunset.
Is sandboarding suitable for beginners?
Yes—guides provide basic instruction and gentler slopes for first-timers; bring closed shoes and be prepared to sit in the sand.
Are there restroom facilities?
Basic restroom facilities are available at the private desert camp; in-vehicle stops are rare so plan accordingly.
Can dietary needs be accommodated at the BBQ?
Most operators can accommodate common dietary requests if informed in advance—note restrictions at booking so the caterers can prepare alternatives.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–9 hours
Location
Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light fitness required: you should be able to board a camel, climb short sand slopes and tolerate bumpy off-road rides.
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