Abu Dhabi: Desert Safari with BBQ, Camel Ride & Sandboarding

Abu Dhabi , United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi: Desert Safari with BBQ, Camel Ride & Sandboarding

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(3040 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience life in the desert at the end of the day on a 4WD safari from Abu Dhabi. Watch traditional dance shows like Tanoura and Belly dance, get the chance to ride a camel and enjoy an open buffet barbecue feast.

Available options

Private Tour with BBQ

Private Tour with BBQ<br/>Pickup included

Sharing Tour with BBQ Dinner

Dune bashing, sandboarding, Arabic makeover, camel ride, henna, shisha, BBQ meal and entertainment shows.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Tanoura show and Belly dance

Henna painting

Dune bashing experience & Sandboarding

Pick-up and drop off from Abu Dhabi

Mineral water and soft drinks

Shisha pipe (free in the Shisha area)

Traditional Arabic dress (for photos)

Open buffet BBQ dinner (vegetarian & non-vegetarian)

Camel ride

Transportation by air-conditioned 4WD vehicle with Licensed driver

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Meet our expert safari guide at your selected location or hotel. After the pickup, we will drive you to the Abu Dhabi Desert in a modern, air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle to kickstart your safari packed with real thrills and excitement.

As the necessary preparations are carried out, including adjusting tire pressures and catching up with the convoy, we'll visit a camel farm where you can get up close to these animals well-adjusted to desert life.

Soon, you'll step into your 4x4 vehicle to embark on a thrilling session of dune bashing. Traverse the desert with excitement and conquer one dune after another, feeling your heart race as you ascend and descend the highest sand dunes. If your thirst for thrills remains unquenched, you can surf through the soft sands of the desert. After experiencing the exhilaration of the desert, you might even catch a glimpse of the sunset before heading to the campsite.

Stop 2

A warm welcome awaits you at the camp. Take a moment to rest and savor traditional coffee and dates at the campsite. Experience the ambiance of a Bedouin as you relax within the encampment, adorned with low-lying tables and Arabic cushions.

Engage in activities such as Henna painting and Shisha smoking. Following this, embark on a brief camel ride to witness the desert's beauty as dusk approaches. And then, it's time to do the traditional Arabic attire!

Watch captivating performances of Tanoura dancing and belly dancing, as you relish a BBQ dinner featuring an array of delectable cuisines. Arabian Kebabs, alongside various Arabic salads, desserts, and main courses, the dinner promises a lavish culinary experience.

After thoroughly enjoying the evening's offerings, you'll be comfortably transported back to your hotel or selected location.

What's not included

Quad bike and dune buggy activities in the desert

Alcoholic beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

110 reviews

5★

103

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2,930 reviews

5★

2839

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please wear comfortable shoes for safe sandboarding

Pick-up will be within 45 minutes of your booked time

It is recommended not to eat 2-3 hours before the safari trip to avoid any vomiting / sickness during the dune bashing

Entertainment activities:- During the holy month of Ramadan (21 March - 20 April 2023) you can watch Tanoura only in our desert camps. Other religious holidays as per UAE law i.e. 3rd April, 10 & 31st Aug, 9th Nov etc there will not be any entertainment activities in the camps as its strictly not permitted by UAE law.

By UAE law, pregnant ladies, people with Heart & back problems, and infants (under 3 years old) are not allowed during the dune bashing activity by car. ( If these conditions are applicable to you, please contact our Consultant to customize your tour)

This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Pick-up available from your Abu Dhabi City Central hotels & cruise port, Airport pick up is from Premier inn Abu Dhabi Airport hotel.

OceanAir Travels shall not be responsible for any kind of loss, accident, sickness or injury. It is advisable that the traveler should avail a travel health insurance as there can be chances of potential risks and hazards. Also, make sure they are mentally and physically able to participate.

Important notes

• Pick-up time will be within the first 30 minutes of your booked tour time, depending on the location of your hotel. If there is any change, you will be notified by email or WhatsApp.
• Infants are not allowed on this activity. The minimum age to join the tour is 3 years, accompanied by an adult.
• Pregnant women and anyone with back or neck pain, heart problems or other serious medical complaints are not allowed to participate

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a blend of traditional and modern culture. Known for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning architecture, and rich heritage, it offers a unique experience with its futuristic skyline, beautiful islands, and deep-rooted traditions.

Top Attractions

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

One of the largest mosques in the world, known for its stunning white marble architecture and beautiful gardens.

Religious/Architecture 2-3 hours Free entry, but donations are appreciated

Louvre Abu Dhabi

A world-renowned museum featuring a diverse collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

Museum/Art 3-4 hours 63 AED (adults), 32 AED (children)

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

A theme park dedicated to the Ferrari brand, featuring thrilling rides and attractions.

Entertainment/Adventure Half to full day 195 AED (adults), 165 AED (children)

Yas Marina Circuit

Home to the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, offering various racing experiences and events.

Sports/Entertainment Varies by event Varies by event and activity

The Corniche

A beautiful waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the city skyline and the Persian Gulf.

Nature/Scenic 1-2 hours (or more for a full walk/cycle) Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Machboos

A spiced rice dish cooked with meat (usually chicken or lamb), often flavored with saffron and served with vegetables.

Main Course Contains meat, can be adapted for dietary restrictions.

Al Harees

A traditional dish made from wheat and meat, cooked together until it forms a porridge-like consistency.

Main Course Contains meat, can be adapted for dietary restrictions.

Luqaimat

Sweet dumplings made from a batter of flour, yeast, and cardamom, deep-fried and served with date syrup or honey.

Dessert Vegetarian, can be made vegan.

Kahwa

A traditional Arabian coffee flavored with cardamom, saffron, or other spices, often served with dates.

Drink Caffeinated, can be made without spices.

Popular Activities

Desert safaris and dune bashing Water sports and scuba diving Spa and wellness treatments Beach lounging and sunbathing Visiting museums and historic sites Attending traditional cultural performances Snorkeling and scuba diving in the Persian Gulf Boat tours and yacht charters

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi with pleasant weather and ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED)

Time Zone

GMT+4

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Abu Dhabi is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas.
• Be cautious when driving, as traffic can be heavy and aggressive.
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, especially during the hot summer months.

Getting there

By air

Abu Dhabi International Airport • 30 km from city center

By bus

Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with air-conditioned buses.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Al Corniche Al Maryah Island Yas Island Al Ain

Day trips

Sir Bani Yas Island

200 km from Abu Dhabi • Full day

A nature reserve and luxury resort offering wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and various outdoor activities.

Liwa Oasis

150 km from Abu Dhabi • Full day

A beautiful oasis with historic forts, sand dunes, and traditional Bedouin culture.

Dubai

120 km from Abu Dhabi • Full day or overnight

A vibrant city known for its modern architecture, shopping, and entertainment.

Festivals

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix • November Abu Dhabi Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Use the 'Sahab' app for bus schedules and routes, and the 'Dubai Now' app for other transportation and services in the UAE.
Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
Dress in light, breathable clothing and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your cultural experience and interact with locals.