The evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi is a captivating journey that immerses visitors in the rich Bedouin culture of the United Arab Emirates. Travelers can expect an action-packed 6-hour adventure filled with thrilling dune bashing, camel riding, and traditional henna painting. But the true allure lies in the opportunity to witness the desert’s enchanting transformation as the sun dips below the horizon, setting the stage for a sumptuous barbecue dinner and captivating cultural performances. This immersive experience not only showcases the stunning natural landscapes but also offers a glimpse into the enduring traditions that define Emirati hospitality. With so much to discover, it’s clear why this desert safari has become a must-do activity for visitors to Abu Dhabi.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Dinner Tours In Abu Dhabi.

Key Points

Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Dinner - Key Points

• Immersive 6-hour evening desert safari experience in Abu Dhabi, including dune bashing, camel riding, and traditional Bedouin cultural activities.
• Enjoy a barbecue dinner with live entertainment, such as belly dance and Tandoora performances, in a desert camp setting.
• Convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, with experienced drivers ensuring a safe and thrilling dune bashing adventure.
• Opportunity to engage with Bedouin culture through the serving of Arabian tea and sweets, henna painting, and a traditional seated gathering (majlis).
• Suitable for both small and large groups, with a minimum of 2 guests and a maximum of 20 travelers.

Overview of the Experience

Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Dinner - Overview of the Experience

The evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi provides visitors with a unique opportunity to enjoy the traditional Bedouin desert culture, offering a range of captivating activities and experiences.

Over the course of six thrilling hours, guests embark on an adventure that includes dune bashing, camel riding, and henna painting, all while enjoying traditional Arabian tea and sweets.

The highlight of the evening is the barbecue dinner, accompanied by a mesmerizing belly dance performance and Tandoora show.

After the meal, visitors can relax and engage in a seated Bedouin gathering, known as a majlis, further seeing the rich heritage of the desert region.

Itinerary and Activities

Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Dinner - Itinerary and Activities

After being picked up from central Abu Dhabi hotels, guests embark on a thrilling dune bashing and desert driving experience led by an experienced driver. This adrenaline-pumping activity allows them to navigate the captivating sand dunes of the desert landscape.

Following the dune bashing, guests have the opportunity to enjoy some traditional Bedouin experiences. These include camel riding and henna painting, as well as a warm welcome at the desert camp with Arabian tea and sweets. The evening continues with a delectable barbecue dinner, mesmerizing belly dance and Tandoora performances, and a relaxing seated gathering (majlis) after the meal.

Activity Details
Dune Bashing Desert driving with experienced guides
Camel Riding Traditional Bedouin experience
Henna Painting Intricate designs on hands and arms
Barbecue Dinner Unlimited soft drinks included

Meeting and Pickup Information

Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Dinner - Meeting and Pickup Information

Hotel pickup and drop-off from central Abu Dhabi hotels are included in the evening desert safari experience.

Pickups are available from all major hotels within the city limits, excluding Liwa, Anantara, and other hotels located outside the city center.

The safari departs at 3:30 PM sharp. This ensures that guests have ample time to experience the thrilling dune bashing, camel riding, and cultural entertainment before enjoying a delectable barbecue dinner under the stars.

It’s important to note that the safari isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Infants are also welcome but must sit on laps during the activities.

A minimum of two guests is required, with a maximum group size of 20 travelers.

Important Notes and Restrictions

Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Dinner - Important Notes and Restrictions

Several important notes and restrictions apply to the evening desert safari experience in Abu Dhabi.

This activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Infants are permitted but must sit on laps during the activities. Plus, the safari isn’t recommended for pregnant women, individuals with heart conditions, or travelers with back problems.

The minimum group size is 2 guests, and the maximum group size is 20 travelers. During the holy month of Ramadan, there may be restrictions on entertainment and alcohol service.

Prospective participants should keep these guidelines in mind when booking their desert adventure to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Reviews and Pricing

Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Dinner - Reviews and Pricing

The evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi boasts an impressive 5-star rating based on 10 reviews, with customers consistently praising the driver’s skills and the quality of the dinner experience.

The tour is priced from $140.00 per person, offering great value for the breadth of activities included. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience and the option to reserve now and pay later.

With no minimum group size and a maximum of 20 travelers, the desert safari caters to both small and large parties.

Dune Bashing and Desert Drive

Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Dinner - Dune Bashing and Desert Drive

An experienced driver takes guests on an exhilarating dune bashing adventure, navigating the vast and undulating sand dunes of the Abu Dhabi desert with skill and precision.

The dune bashing experience allows visitors to feel the adrenaline rush as the vehicle climbs and descends the towering dunes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The driver’s expertise ensures a safe and thrilling journey, with seamless maneuvers through the shifting sands.

This desert drive provides a unique opportunity to take in the captivating beauty of the Arabian desert, leaving guests with a truly unforgettable experience.

Bedouin Desert Culture

Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Dinner - Bedouin Desert Culture

Amid the vast expanse of the Abu Dhabi desert, visitors are invited to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Bedouin people, who’ve long been the guardians of this captivating landscape.

During the evening desert safari, guests are transported back in time, experiencing the authentic traditions of the Bedouin community:

  • Sipping aromatic Arabian tea and savoring sweet delicacies in a traditional Bedouin tent, where hospitality is a sacred custom.

  • Adorning their hands with intricate henna designs, a cherished Bedouin art form that symbolizes beauty, fertility, and good luck.

  • Witnessing the mesmerizing movements of belly dancers and the rhythmic beats of the Tandoora, instruments that have echoed across the dunes for generations.

  • Gathering around the campfire for a sumptuous Bedouin-style barbecue dinner, sharing stories and connecting with the timeless spirit of the desert.

Dining and Entertainment

Evening Desert Safari Abu Dhabi With Dinner - Dining and Entertainment

Guests frequently savor a sumptuous Bedouin-style barbecue dinner, complete with unlimited soft drinks, as they gather around the campfire and connect with the timeless spirit of the desert.

Live belly dance performances and the rhythmic beats of the Tandoora, traditional instruments that have echoed across the dunes for generations, captivate the senses during this immersive cultural experience.

After the meal, travelers are invited to a seated gathering known as a majlis, where they can relax and engage with Emirati hosts, learning about the region’s rich heritage.

This evening desert safari offers a well-rounded exploration of Bedouin traditions, from the thrill of dune bashing to the tranquility of an authentic desert camp experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Generally, guests are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on organized tours and experiences. The tour package typically includes all meals and refreshments, so bringing outside items is not permitted. Guests should check with the tour operator for any specific policies.

Are There Any Weight or Height Restrictions for the Activities?

There are weight and height restrictions for some activities like camel riding. Typically, a maximum weight limit of 120 kg or 265 lbs and a minimum height requirement of 1.2 m or 3.9 ft may apply. Guests should check with the tour operator.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Safari?

Yes, the duration of the safari can be extended. Guests have the option to customize their package and select a longer tour that includes additional activities or more time at the desert camp. Extended safaris are subject to availability and may incur additional costs.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

No, you don’t need to bring your own camera equipment. The desert safari typically provides ample opportunities to capture memorable moments, and guests can use their personal cameras or smartphones to take photos during the various activities.

Can I Book This Experience for a Private Group?

Yes, this experience can be booked for a private group. The provider offers private tours for a minimum of 2 guests up to a maximum group size of 20 travelers. Advance booking is required.

The Sum Up

The Evening Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi offers an unforgettable culture, blending thrilling activities like dune bashing and camel riding with authentic Emirati traditions.

Guests can savor a barbecue dinner while enjoying mesmerizing performances, all within the serene desert landscape.

It’s a unique opportunity to experience the essence of Bedouin life in a comfortable desert camp setting.