Red Dunes Safari: Camel Ride, Sandboarding & VIP Desert Dinner
Ride over the UAE’s famous red dunes, try sandboarding, and finish the evening at a Bedouin-style camp with a VIP BBQ buffet. This guided Lahbab safari blends adrenaline with cultural demonstrations like falconry and henna.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate Before and During
Bring a filled reusable water bottle — even evening tours can dehydrate you after dune bashing and sun exposure.
Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
Sand gets hot and vehicles jolt; sturdy sneakers or light hiking shoes protect your feet during walks and sandboarding.
Expect Motion and Jostling
Dune bashing is high-adrenaline and can be rough: secure loose items and sit where instructed by the guide.
Respect Cultural Norms
Dress modestly at the camp (shoulders and knees covered) and ask before photographing performers or local artists.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Visit the quieter edges of the Lahbab dunes at sunrise for fewer tracks and smoother light for photos
- •Stop at nearby Al Qudra Lakes for birdwatching if you extend your desert time
Wildlife
- •Desert fox (small nocturnal canids)
- •Falcon (often present during cultural demonstrations)
Conservation Note
Stick to marked access routes and follow guides’ instructions — vehicle traffic and litter are the main threats to dune ecology; use reusable water bottles and dispose of waste at the camp.
Camels and falconry have deep roots in Emirati life; Bedouin camps replicate communal evening gatherings where food, storytelling, and trade connected desert communities.
What to Bring
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is critical in desert conditions, especially during dune bashing and sandboarding.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Protects feet from hot sand and provides traction on uneven slopes.
High SPF sunscreen and sunglassesEssential
Protects skin and eyes from intense desert sun, particularly in late afternoon and early evening.
Light scarf or long-sleeve layer
Keeps sand out of hair and offers modest coverage during cooler evenings.
Common Questions
Is pickup included from Dubai hotels?
Yes — most tours include hotel or mall pickup and drop-off within Dubai; confirm your pickup point when booking.
Can I ride a camel if I have mobility issues?
Camel rides are offered but require mounting assistance; travelers with mobility limitations should notify the operator in advance and consider skipping the ride.
Are meals and drinks included?
A VIP-style BBQ buffet and unlimited soft drinks are included; alcoholic beverages are typically not offered at standard desert camps in the UAE.
Is sandboarding difficult for beginners?
No technical skill is needed; guides provide instruction and short practice runs, but expect a brief learning curve and some falls on soft sand.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5–6 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Good overall fitness required: comfortable with off-road rides, short walks on uneven sand, and standing during shows.
Ready to Explore Dubai?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now