VIP Desert Safari Dubai: Dune Bashing, Dinner & Live Shows

4.91

(35 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

Hot wind on my face, sand crunching underfoot—right away, you know this isn’t just a regular evening out in Dubai. Our driver picked us up in a spotless SUV, the kind that makes you feel like a celebrity for a night. The city faded fast, replaced by endless red dunes. I remember the way the sun hit the sand—almost blinding, but beautiful in that wild way only the desert can be.

Dune bashing was wild. You grip the seat, heart racing as the car slides down steep slopes and climbs up again. It’s loud—lots of laughter and a bit of nervous yelling from the back seat. If you’re into it, there’s an option for quad biking or a buggy ride too. The guides know every dip and curve; ours even pointed out a fox darting across the sand at dusk.

The camp felt like stepping into another world. Lanterns flickered, and there was this faint smell of grilled meat mixed with sweet shisha smoke. We tried on Arabic robes for photos—honestly, they’re heavier than they look—and got henna painted by a woman who told us she’s been doing it since she was twelve. Dinner? Huge spread: smoky kebabs, fresh salads, even some spicy rice that had a real kick. The BBQ buffet is no joke—definitely come hungry.

Between bites, there were so many shows I lost count: swirling Tanoura dancers, fire performers who made everyone gasp, and a belly dancer who got half the crowd up to join her (I tried—not my best moment). The oud player’s music drifted through everything, making it feel almost dreamlike at times. Kids ran around chasing each other while adults lounged on cushions sipping mint tea.