Twenty years ago, where Dubai's skyline now stands, there was only desert. Just an hour from the city, that desert still exists. Here's what nobody tells you about the Evening Safari Dubai: it's not about the camel rides or dune bashing. It's about when golden hour light turns the sand into flowing honey, when you step into wind made half of sand, and suddenly remember what it's like to let go.
I visited this experience myself to give you an honest, detailed account of what your desert safari trip Dubai will actually be like, from timing and costs to the moments that make it worth it.
What You Are Getting Into: The Journey
Duration & Pickup: Expect 45 minutes to an hour drive from Dubai to Sharjah, depending on your pickup location. Your driver will adjust the route based on traffic and can answer questions along the way. Our driver, Khayyam, shared stories about how the area transformed from pure desert to the developed landscape we see today.
First Stop in Sharjah: Camels, Falcons & Getting Desert-Ready
What's Here: An open-air facility with camel rides, quad bike rentals (paid extra), a kiosk, and shaded seating areas.
The Smart Investment: Traditional Scarves
At the kiosk, you can buy traditional scarves starting at AED 90 and have them tied properly. There are also snacks and srinks available for purchase. This is worth it. Under the desert sun, especially during sandboarding and sunset, the head protection makes a significant difference. Sunglasses are also essential - bring your own.
Camel Riding
Your camel handler will take photos and videos for you at no extra charge. They are enthusiastic directors ("Peace sign! Hands up!"), and yes, some shots will be artistic angles of hooves and sky. Professional photographers are available for AED 50 if you want higher quality photos.
Expect: A short, thrilling ride. The camel sits down for mounting, making it easy for first-timers.
Falcon Experience
You may have the opportunity to hold a falcon, an unforgettable moment. The birds are calm and the handlers are experienced. However, this activity may not be included in all packages, so be sure to ask your guide whether it's complimentary or requires an additional fee.
The Adrenaline: Dune Bashing & Sandboarding
Dune Bashing
This is the highlight for many. The 4x4 ride through the dunes is thrilling - imagine being gently shaken in every direction while strapped in safely.
Pro tip: Relax your muscles completely for the full jelly-like effect. It's more fun when you are not tensing up. Important: Go on an empty stomach. Seriously. No juice, no heavy snacks before this part. You will thank me later.
Sandboarding
You will be given a board at a dune. The descent is straightforward but exhilarating. Lean back slightly and maintain balance.
The reality: Climbing back up through soft sand is a workout. If you are not particularly athletic, expect to feel it. Wear closed, comfortable shoes with good grip.
The Service Stop
Between activities, our driver stopped at a facility where we could:
- Wash sand from our feet (useful if you wore open shoes)
- Use an air hose to blow sand out of closed shoes
- Use restrooms
- Take a break
What's happening: Drivers service their vehicles and adjust tire pressure after the dune activities. Your driver may choose a different service stop, but you will get a similar catch-your-breath moment.
Golden Hour & Sunset: The Transformative Part
The pre-sunset hour changes everything. That golden, honey-colored horizontal light transforms the landscape and the mood. Everyone seems to slow down, families sit quietly on benches, and there's this collective exhale.
The Sunset Photo Spot
What to expect: Strong winds carrying sand. Tie up long hair. The scarf you bought earlier will help, but sand will still get everywhere - in your eyes, between your teeth, on your camera lens.
Why it's worth it: The atmosphere is unlike anything else. No social pressure, everyone's relaxed, and the light is extraordinary. People seem more real here than in the city.
The Evening Camp: What You Get
Two Camp Types: Standard and Premium. Both have the same activities and shows - the difference is in ambiance and dining space.
Seating Options:
- Standard seating: Traditional low tables near the stage
- Premium seating: Elevated lounge areas
Before You Enter: Additional Activities
- Short camel rides (included)
- Longer camel rides (~20 AED)
- Horse rides (~20-25 AED)
- Quad bike rides (paid, prices vary)
By the time you arrive at the dining camp area, it will be dark.
The Dining Experience
Setup: Buffet-style with live cooking stations. Chefs prepare pasta and slice shawarma in front of you.
What's Available:
- Multiple spice levels (mild to quite spicy)
- Vegan and vegetarian options
- Indian cuisine
- European dishes
- Various meats
- Simple desserts
- Soft drinks
Managing expectations: the food included in the buffet is varied and satisfying after your desert adventures, but not fine dining. Come hungry and you will be happy.
The Evening Entertainment
You will watch five traditional performances throughout the evening:
- Tanoura Dance: Whirling dervish-style spinning in elaborate circular costumes. Mesmerizing to watch.
- Ayala Dance: Traditional Arabic dance with four performers in authentic garments, using sticks and rhythmic movements. The drum beats create an almost hypnotic atmosphere.
- Dabke Show: High-energy performance with drums. Audience participation is common. You might be invited to try playing the drums yourself.
- Fire Show: Performers manipulate fire sticks with impressive skill. The finale sends a dramatic wave of fire skyward - you will feel the heat from your seat.
- Belly Dance: Two dancers in traditional costumes perform precise, graceful movements.
The experience: These aren't just performances to watch, there's something about the desert setting, the evening air, and the collective audience experience that creates an almost meditative state. You will find yourself absorbed in ways you don't expect.
Essential Practical Tips
What to Bring:
- Sunglasses (essential)
- Closed, comfortable shoes with good grip
- Hair ties for long hair
- Light jacket for evening (November-March)
- Fully charged phone for photos
What to Buy There:
- Traditional scarf (90 AED+) for sun and sand protection
What NOT to Do:
- Eat or drink heavily before dune bashing
- Wear open shoes if you plan to be active
- Over-schedule - leave time to just absorb the atmosphere
Photography:
- Your phone is fine, but bring a lens cloth
- Sand will get on your camera
- The best moments might be when you put the phone down
The Real Value
This isn't just about ticking off activities. The desert does something unexpected, it slows you down and strips away the usual social performance. You will find yourself watching your own reactions, noticing how you let go of whatever you typically hold onto.
The desert feels like stepping into non-being for a few hours, a warm oblivion that invites presence. It's a passage from urban rush into something elemental and timeless.
Worth it? Yes. Especially during the November-March cooler season. Book the evening safari over morning. The sunset transforms the entire experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time is needed for a Dubai desert safari?
Plan for 6-7 hours total, including pickup and drop-off. The experience typically starts with afternoon pickup (around 3-4 PM) and returns to Dubai by 9-10 PM.
What should you expect or pack for a desert safari (food, clothing, weather)?
Bring sunglasses, closed comfortable shoes, hair ties for long hair, and a light jacket for cooler months (November-March). Dinner is included in the package. Consider buying a traditional scarf (90 AED) at the first stop for sun protection.
Are there desert safari options without dune bashing or less adventurous activities?
Yes. For the most flexibility, book a private safari tour where your driver can customize the experience to your preferences. You can request to skip or moderate the dune bashing intensity and spend more time on cultural activities, camel rides, and sunset photography instead.
Is it safe or suitable to take young children (e.g., infants, toddlers) on a desert safari?
Dune bashing can be intense for very young children. Many families bring toddlers and older children who enjoy the experience, but infants may find it overwhelming. Make sure to request child seats when booking if you want to bring infants to this experience.
What other attractions or activities can you combine with a desert safari in Dubai (e.g., BBQ, theme parks, city tours)?
Desert safari tours work well as a standalone evening activity. The BBQ dinner is included in most packages. Since it takes a full evening, consider pairing it with morning activities like Burj Khalifa visit, Dubai Mall, or theme parks on a different day.
Is quad biking included in the desert safari package, and do I need a license?
Quad biking is typically an optional paid extra at the first stop and at the evening camps. No license is usually required, but age and safety restrictions apply. Note that insurance may not cover quad biking activities. Confirm pricing, requirements, and insurance coverage on-site before participating.
Can I try sandboarding during the safari, and is equipment provided?
Yes, sandboarding is included in most evening desert safari packages. The board is provided, and you will stop at a dune during the dune bashing portion. Be prepared for a workout climbing back up the sand.
What kind of food is served at the BBQ dinner, and are there vegetarian options?
The buffet includes live cooking stations with pasta, shawarma, grilled meats, Indian dishes, European options, and various spice levels. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, along with simple desserts and soft drinks.
What is the difference between standard desert safari and premium desert safari?
The main differences are in camp ambiance and seating. Both include the same activities and entertainment. Premium camps offer more elegant dining spaces and upgraded seating options, while standard camps have traditional low tables and a more rustic atmosphere.
How much does a desert safari cost in Dubai?
At Gentoo, prices start from AED 125 for Standard Camp and AED 150 for Premium Camp. For a more exclusive option, private vehicles start from AED 750 and are ideal for families or small groups who prefer a personalised adventure. Optional extras like quad biking, photos, and longer camel rides may have additional costs.
Ready for Your Desert Adventure?
Experience the magic of the Dubai desert for yourself. Book your evening desert safari and enjoy a thrilling adventure filled with stunning views, local culture, and unforgettable moments.
Book Your Evening Desert Safari on Gentoo.ae
About the Author
Anastasiia Yurchuk is the Content Designer at Gentoo - the creative mind who brings words and visuals together to tell the Gentoo story. Armed with a sharp eye for detail and a love for design that speaks, she turns attraction descriptions, blogs, and social posts into experiences you can almost feel. Being the youngest on the team (and the luckiest!), she often gets sent out to explore UAE’s top attractions - all in the name of “research,” of course.
