Introduction:Dubai's desert safaris offer the perfect escape from the city's glitzy skyscrapers, allowing you to explore the beauty of the Arabian desert while indulging in the local culture. One of the most popular safari experiences is the evening desert safari, where you can enjoy thrilling activities followed by a mouth-watering BBQ dinner and an enchanting belly dance performance. In this blog, I’ll take you through what makes this combination of adventure, flavor, and entertainment a must-do when visiting Dubai.
Your evening starts with a convenient pickup from your hotel in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle. The excitement kicks off as you make your way into the vast, golden desert. Once you arrive, the adventure really begins with an exhilarating dune bashing session. The skilled driver navigates the steep dunes, creating a roller-coaster-like experience as you race up and down the sandy hills. This adrenaline-pumping activity is a thrilling way to explore the natural landscape, offering sweeping views of the endless desert.
For those looking for a more relaxed way to explore, the safari also offers a chance to go on a camel ride. Camels, known as the "ships of the desert," have been used by Bedouins for centuries to traverse the harsh desert terrain. Riding one gives you a taste of what life might have been like for the ancient travelers of the region.
As the adrenaline of dune bashing subsides, you’ll get to enjoy a quieter moment: watching the sunset over the desert. This is one of the most magical parts of the evening, as the sky is painted in hues of orange, pink, and purple. As the sun dips below the horizon, the desert takes on a peaceful, ethereal quality, perfect for capturing some stunning photos.
After the sunset, you’ll be taken to a traditional Bedouin-style camp, where the evening’s festivities unfold. The camp is beautifully set up with cozy seating areas, Arabian carpets, and lanterns that create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with Arabic coffee (gahwa) and fresh dates, a symbol of the region's hospitality.
As the stars begin to appear in the desert sky, it’s time to indulge in a delicious BBQ dinner. The buffet spread includes a variety of traditional Middle Eastern dishes as well as international favorites, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Expect to enjoy grilled meats such as lamb kebabs, chicken shawarma, and beef skewers, paired with flavorful rice, fresh salads, and warm Arabic bread.
The meal is complemented by a variety of vegetarian options, mezze platters featuring hummus, tabbouleh, and baba ghanoush, as well as Arabic sweets like baklava for dessert. For drinks, there’s a selection of soft drinks, water, and tea, and some safari packages even offer shisha (hookah) for an authentic Arabian experience.
Once you’ve filled up on the delicious food, the evening entertainment begins with the highlight of the night: the belly dance performance. Set against the backdrop of the desert night, the belly dancer takes the stage in traditional, shimmering attire, moving gracefully to the rhythmic beats of Arabic music. Her fluid movements, combined with the swirling fabric of her costume, create a mesmerizing performance that captivates the entire audience.
The belly dance is not only a beautiful art form but also an integral part of the Arabian cultural experience, reflecting the region’s rich history and traditions. For many visitors, this performance is a highlight of the evening, blending entertainment with cultural immersion.
In addition to the belly dance, many desert safaris also feature a variety of other performances and activities to enjoy. Some common additions include: