Desert dining in Abu Dhabi delivers the perfect mix of food and culture under the stars. Local tour operators offer 6-hour evening safaris and overnight camping options, each including traditional BBQ dinners in the desert. I’m especially fond of the evening tours that combine sunset dune-bashing with a hearty feast – they’re well-organized and give you the most bang for your buck.
The best tours include classic Arabic entertainment (belly dancing, henna painting) and essential desert experiences (camel rides, sandboarding). My favorite spots serve authentic Emirati grilled meats and fresh-baked bread, while maintaining comfortable seating areas on traditional carpets.
Let’s explore our tested and recommended desert dinner tours in Abu Dhabi.
Key Points
- The Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner and Live Shows offers a highly-rated 6-hour tour with camel riding, cultural activities, and a traditional desert camp experience.
- The Private Dune Dinner experience provides an intimate, luxury dining adventure in the desert, with Middle Eastern cuisine and dune bashing, though it is more exclusive.
- The Liwa Overnight Camping Adventure includes desert drives, camel farm visits, and a fully-equipped camping setup with BBQ dinner and breakfast, though it may not be suitable for all travelers.
- The Afternoon Desert Safari and BBQ Dinner option features an evening safari with sunset viewing and cultural activities, with transportation provided from various locations in Abu Dhabi.
- Dinner tours in Abu Dhabi often include additional experiences such as henna painting, sandboarding, and shisha smoking, with varying levels of authenticity and upselling tactics.
Abu Dhabi Desert Safari For 6-Hour Include BBQ Dinner
The Abu Dhabi Desert Safari is a popular 6-hour excursion that includes a thrilling dune bashing experience and a delectable BBQ dinner.
With over 1,372 reviews and a 97% traveler recommendation, this tour offers a range of activities like camel rides, henna tattoos, and Arabian coffee tasting.
Additional options like quad biking and sandboarding are available for an extra fee. Pickup and drop-off are provided from various locations in Abu Dhabi.
Moderate physical fitness is required, and vegetarian meals can be requested.
During Ramadan, the entertainment is adjusted, but the safari and dinner experience continue.
Reviewers praise the clean vehicles, informative drivers, and excellent BBQ, though some feel the pace is a bit rushed.
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Desert Safari Abu Dhabi W/ Sand Boarding, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner
Set out on a captivating desert adventure in Abu Dhabi with the Desert Safari Abu Dhabi W/ Sand Boarding, Camel Ride & BBQ Dinner.
Boasting 171 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour offers a badge of excellence. Priced from $75.36 per person, it includes a delectable BBQ dinner and alcoholic beverages.
Pickup is provided from hotels and ports, with operating hours from 3 PM to 9:30 PM, Monday to Sunday. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes infants on laps.
Travelers rave about the great adventure, helpful guides, and exciting activities like dune bashing and camel rides.
With mixed feedback on the food quality, this desert safari promises a memorable cultural experience.
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Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner & Live Shows
Offering a captivating desert experience in Abu Dhabi, the “Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner & Live Shows” tour entices travelers with its array of exciting activities and culture.
With a 94% recommendation rate from 586 reviews, this tour provides dune bashing, camel riding, sand boarding, henna painting, and live entertainment, all for a starting price of $60 per person.
However, travelers should be aware of potential extra charges and mixed feedback on food quality and organizational issues.
While the desert scenery and photo opportunities are highlights, some have described the experience as lacking authenticity and prone to aggressive upselling tactics.
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Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With Live Shows And BBQ Buffet Dinner
Travelers often embark on the captivating “Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With Live Shows And BBQ Buffet Dinner” tour, which boasts a remarkable 4.9-star rating from over 1,200 reviews.
This well-organized excursion offers an exhilarating mix of activities, including dune bashing, sand-boarding, and a short camel ride. Guests are treated to delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian BBQ fare, along with unlimited soft drinks, tea, and coffee.
While the majority of reviews praise the friendly guides and memorable experiences, some report issues with restrooms, food quality, and upselling.
Tourists should consider their physical limitations before booking, as the tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
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Abu Dhabi Desert Safari BBQ Dinner Live Shows Pick & Drop More
The Abu Dhabi Desert Safari BBQ Dinner Live Shows is a captivating excursion that whisks visitors into the heart of the desert, boasting a remarkable 4.8-star rating from 77 reviews.
For $25 per person, travelers can indulge in 4×4 dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, henna painting, and live entertainment, including belly dancing and fire shows.
While most guests praise the guides’ respect and passion, some report long wait times, food quality issues, and additional costs for experiences not included in the package.
Considering personal preferences and researching alternative options can help ensure a tailored and enjoyable desert adventure.
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Romantic Private Dune Dinner Abu Dhabi
For those seeking a more intimate and exclusive desert experience, the Romantic Private Dune Dinner in Abu Dhabi stands out as a top-rated option.
With a near-perfect 5.0 rating based on 69 reviews, this private dining experience offers a delightful menu featuring Middle Eastern specialties like hummus, tabbouleh, and lamb kebabs.
The experience also includes dune bashing, shisha smoking, and convenient pickup service.
Although not recommended for certain travelers, most can participate in this romantic desert setting.
Priced from $599 per group of up to 4 people, this private tour provides an unforgettable and highly-rated dining adventure in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s stunning dunes.
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Abu Dhabi Afternoon Desert Safari and BBQ Dinner
Embarking on an unforgettable 6-hour journey across the captivating Abu Dhabi desert, the Abu Dhabi Afternoon Desert Safari and BBQ Dinner offers a comprehensive experience that has enchanted 89 travelers, 96% of whom highly recommend this excursion.
This tour showcases the thrilling dune bashing in a 4WD, a traditional Bedouin camp experience, and a delectable Arabic feast under the stars. Theres some good camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting, and cultural entertainment, including belly dance and tannora performances.
Equipped with comfortable, air-conditioned transportation, the tour provides pickup from all hotels and private residences in Abu Dhabi, ensuring a seamless experience.
With a moderate physical fitness requirement, this safari is a must-try for adventurous travelers.
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Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner & Shows
An immersive 6-hour adventure, the Abu Dhabi Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner & Shows captivates travelers with its thrilling dune bashing, camel rides, and cultural entertainment.
Boasting a perfect 5-star rating from 88 reviews, this tour offers an unparalleled experience in the UAE’s vast desert landscape. Guests can look forward to sandboarding, henna painting, and optional quad biking, complemented by a delicious BBQ dinner and traditional dance performances.
While not suitable for those with health concerns, the safari receives high praise for its skilled guides and breathtaking sunset views.
With convenient pickup from across Abu Dhabi, this desert excursion is a must-try for visitors seeking an authentic Arabian adventure.
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Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner and All Camp Activities
What better way to experience the captivating desert landscape of Abu Dhabi than on an evening safari? This immersive 4×4 tour offers visitors a chance to explore Bedouin culture and thrilling desert adventures.
The itinerary includes dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and a sunset viewing. Guests can also enjoy henna tattoos, Arabic coffee, and a belly dancing show during the BBQ dinner.
With an overall rating of 4.3 and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides a well-rounded desert experience. While not suitable for some travelers, the majority of guests praise the activities and culture.
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Dining Experience at Iconic Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi
The Emirates Palace, a lavish and iconic hotel in Abu Dhabi, offers visitors an exquisite dining experience. Guests can choose between the Episodes Lounge, which serves an indulgent afternoon tea, or the Vendome Restaurant, which features an international buffet.
The palace is renowned for its Palace Cappuccino, adorned with 24-carat gold. While the atmosphere and service receive praise, some reviews suggest the food quality and value may be inconsistent.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the palace grounds after dining and consider booking directly with the Emirates Palace for potentially better deals. The dining experience costs around $60.69 per person and requires smart casual or traditional Arab attire.
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Overnight Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner & Breakfast Abu Dhabi
For those seeking an immersive desert experience in Abu Dhabi, the Overnight Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner & Breakfast offers an unparalleled adventure.
Rated 4.5 stars and recommended by 93% of travelers, this tour takes participants on a thrilling journey through the dunes, complete with camel riding, sand boarding, and dune bashing.
The BBQ buffet dinner features a variety of delectable dishes, from shish tawouk chicken to lamb kababs, while a light breakfast is provided before the return journey.
With optional activities like henna painting, shisha smoking, and quad biking, this tour provides an unforgettable taste of Emirati culture and hospitality.
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Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Dinner
Offering a captivating evening experience in the Abu Dhabi desert, the Evening Desert Safari provides a thrilling blend of adventure and culture.
This 6-hour tour whisks travelers through the sand dunes, culminating in a traditional desert camp where guests can enjoy camel riding, henna painting, and a Tandoora show with belly dancing.
The experience is further enhanced by a BBQ dinner with unlimited soft drinks, all while taking in the stunning sunset.
With pickup and drop-off from central Abu Dhabi hotels, this tour is recommended by 100% of travelers and rated 4.9 out of 5.
Travelers should note the minimum group size and restrictions for certain individuals.
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Liwa Overnight Camping With All Camping Gears, Dinner and Breakfast
This overnight camping adventure in the Liwa desert offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the captivating landscape of Abu Dhabi.
Rated with a Badge of Excellence and 100% recommended by previous guests, the experience includes a private 4×4 vehicle pickup, a desert drive, a visit to a camel farm and oasis, and a fully-equipped camping setup.
Travelers can enjoy a BBQ dinner, breakfast, and stunning sunset and sunrise views.
The tour is suitable for most guests, but not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.
With a competitive price and a flexible cancellation policy, this overnight camping experience is an ideal way to explore the beauty of the Liwa desert.
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Overnight Safari Abu Dhabi ,Belly Dance ,Camel Ride ,Henna Painting ,BBQ Dinner
Travelers can embark on an unforgettable overnight safari adventure in the Abu Dhabi desert, where they’ll indulge in a captivating blend of cultural experiences.
The package includes accommodation, a delectable barbecue dinner, and a hearty breakfast. Activities range from sandboarding and dune bashing to henna painting and Tanoura dances.
Guests can also enjoy photo sessions with traditional costumes and falcons, as well as witness the stunning desert sunrises and sunsets.
Priced from $130 per person, the safari offers great value, with inclusions like bottled water, coffee/tea, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
Vegetarian options are available upon request, and the experience is suitable for most travelers, with some physical fitness required.
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Evening Abu Dhabi Desert Safari & BBQ Dinner- Standard Tour
The Evening Abu Dhabi Desert Safari & BBQ Dinner – Standard Tour provides an immersive desert experience, allowing visitors to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Al Khathim desert.
Priced from $99 per person, this 5-star rated tour accommodates up to 30 travelers. Highlights include dune bashing, sand skiing, camel riding, and a BBQ dinner with traditional Arabic cuisine.
The tour also offers henna designs, stargazing, and the opportunity to don traditional costumes. While not suitable for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
With free cancellation and flexible rescheduling, this tour offers a memorable desert adventure in Abu Dhabi.
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Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari Tour With Shows and BBQ Dinner
Boasting a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari Tour with Shows and BBQ Dinner takes adventurers on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Al Khathim desert.
Priced from $60 per person, the tour includes dune bashing, camel riding, sand boarding, and stunning sunset photo stops. Guests will be treated to a 10+ course Emirati buffet dinner and mesmerizing live entertainment like belly dancing and fire shows.
While optional activities like quad biking and photo shoots with falcons come at an extra cost, the tour’s inclusive offerings provide excellent value.
With a maximum capacity of 500, this desert excursion is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
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4×4 Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With BBQ Dinner
This desert safari excursion in Abu Dhabi offers an exhilarating 4×4 adventure through the stunning sand dunes of the Al Khathim desert.
The 6-hour tour includes dune bashing, photo opportunities during sunset, and a visit to a Bedouin-style camp with activities like sand boarding and camel rides.
Guests can enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars, along with belly dancing and Tanura dance performances.
The tour is ideal for families and includes round-trip transportation in air-conditioned 4×4 vehicles.
With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour, this experience provides a personalized and memorable desert adventure in Abu Dhabi.
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Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Hot BBQ Dinner
An evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure and culture.
Operated by Desert Holidays Abu Dhabi, this tour is highly recommended, with 100% positive reviews from 21 travelers. For $65 per person, the experience includes round-trip transportation, dune bashing, camel riding, sand boarding, and a hot BBQ dinner.
Guests can also enjoy cultural experiences like a camel farm visit, falcon photography, Tanoura dancing, and henna tattoos. With a maximum group size of 100, this tour provides an intimate desert adventure with amenities like Arabic coffee, tea, and unlimited shisha.
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Abu Dhabi Private Desert Camping With BBQ Dinner
Travelers seeking a private desert camping experience in Abu Dhabi can enjoy the Abu Dhabi Private Desert Camping With BBQ Dinner tour.
This 5-star rated experience includes a BBQ dinner and is priced at $210 per person. Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling are available up to 24 hours before the start.
Pickup is provided from various locations, and the experience runs daily from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
While not wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available. The experience isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and the 6 reviews are all 5 stars.
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Abu Dhabi Desert Safari With BBQ Dinner , Camel Ride , Bally Dance
Offering a thrilling desert adventure, the Abu Dhabi Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner, Camel Ride, and Belly Dance provides an immersive cultural experience for visitors to the UAE.
With a 4.5-star rating from 6 reviews, this half-day tour takes guests on a dune-bashing adventure in a 4WD vehicle before visiting a camel farm for a short camel ride.
Enjoy Arabic hospitality with tea, coffee, and dates, followed by a Bedouin-style BBQ dinner and live entertainment.
Additional highlights include sandboarding, falcon photography, and henna painting.
Not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour requires a moderate fitness level and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
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Recap
Abu Dhabi offers a variety of desert safari tours that include a BBQ dinner and live entertainment. Visitors can experience the thrill of dune bashing, sand boarding, and camel riding, followed by a traditional Emirati feast and cultural shows. Whether it’s a group or private tour, these desert excursions provide an unforgettable way to explore the stunning landscapes surrounding the UAE’s capital.