Dubai Desert Adventure: ATV, Camel Ride, BBQ & Shows

Wonder why they have such a high review score? Because the guides are instructed to gain sympathy during the first and most spectacular activity (dune bashing) and to PRESSURE the customer to rate 5 stars and review literally on the spot before proceeding to the camp. Apart from the dune bashing, this is was a super lame day. ATV driving in a line minimum speed, riding on the back of a sick camel, a sub standard bbq, and a boring show for which they try to sell you a table (otherwise you will be sitting on the floor, chairs not included in the price). And as cherry on the pie, a super rude guy in charge of the ATV who couldn't stand being questioned why the program didn't correspond to what was advertised.

Full Dubai desert experience. Wonderful. From beginning to end we enjoyed all the activities and the shows.

From start to finish our experience with ABC Tours was seamless, professional and so much fun. Booking was incredibly easy through WhatsApp. The team explained everything clearly from the itinerary to the pricing and once we confirmed they sent a secure online payment link. It felt completely safe and transparent which gave us peace of mind. On the day our driver arrived promptly as scheduled. Although we were expecting a 4x4 and were initially picked up in a small car it was not a huge issue. The drive from Jumeirah Beach took about an hour with a quick refresh stop at a petrol station before reaching the camp area. From there a Toyota Land Cruiser picked us up for the true desert adventure. Check in was smooth and welcoming. We were greeted with chilled bottled water and delicious Arabic coffee and even had the option to upgrade our dining experience from standard buffet seating to a private booth with table service and an extended menu. For around £40 for two adults and two children aged 7 and 10 this was excellent value and made the evening feel extra special. Before the main activities our kids enjoyed buying traditional headscarves at 35 AED each and having them tied properly by the kind ladies in the store. While waiting for the camel ride we were treated to a fantastic falcon experience. The handler placed the bird on our arms, shoulders and even our heads. It cost 20 AED each and if you do not have cash there is an extra 6 AED charge for paying by card. The smiles and photos made it absolutely worth it. The camel ride itself was short at around three minutes but memorable. Each camel carried two riders and the guides happily recorded videos on our phones so we could capture the moment. In this area there is also a professional photographer who later comes round to you during the shows with printed images to view. Each one is presented in a traditional folding style memorial photo display. The prints are A4 in size and fold in half. You can choose from five images at 50 AED each or buy all five for 200 AED. We chose one as a keepsake and it was nicely presented. Next came the highlight which was dune bashing with Ansar. If you get the chance ask for him by name. He was knowledgeable, friendly and made the entire experience exhilarating yet safe. His choice of Arabic music set the perfect atmosphere and he knew all the best photo spots. Halfway through he stopped on a ridge and became our photographer, arranging poses that resulted in incredible pictures. Watching the sunset over the dunes while Ansar guided us through was simply magical. Back at the camp we tried sandboarding before dinner. It is a slow gentle glide rather than an adrenaline rush which made it perfect for kids and families but less so for thrill seekers. Dinner in our private booth was outstanding. As vegetarians we were spoiled for choice. Starters included hummus with warm pittas, falafel wraps, spring rolls, potato salad and tortilla style chips. Mains arrived sizzling on skewers over hot coals with paneer and vegetable kebabs with fries, alongside aloo and pea curry, vegetable noodles, rice and fresh salads. There was far more food than the four of us could finish and everything was delicious. Unlimited water and soft drinks were included which was a thoughtful touch in the desert heat. A tip for future guests is to bring your own cooling fans, ideally misting ones for the kids. By the time we sat down it was extremely hot and although each booth had its own oscillating fan it was not enough. Luckily we had brought small handheld fans and they kept the children comfortable. I would also recommend bringing plenty of hand wipes and a dry cloth. The wipes are great for freshening up your face in the heat while the dry cloth is essential for brushing off the sand that gets everywhere after dune bashing and sandboarding. The washrooms are functional but basic as you would expect in the desert so definitely pack alcohol gel as well. These little extras made a big difference to our comfort. While we ate the entertainment unfolded right in front of us. The belly dancer was graceful, the traditional tanoura dancer mesmerising and the fire show was the perfect finale. A special tip is not to leave right after the long fire pole sequence because what comes next with the desert sand is like a movie post credit scene. Overall ABC Tours exceeded our expectations. Every detail was well thought out, the activities were varied and exciting and the hospitality was genuine. From WhatsApp booking to the final performance we felt looked after at every step. Our kids had an amazing time and so did we. A huge thank you to Ansar for making the dune bashing such a memorable part of our trip. He truly elevated the whole experience. If you are considering a desert safari in Dubai go with ABC Tours. You will come away with great memories, brilliant photos and full stomachs.

Was fantastic. Asif was truly the best driver and host. 12 years of experience. My son and wife enjoyed it much as I did. Strongly recommend to book with them.

Rasheed & Nas were our drivers for the day, we had the best time with great service. Camel ride, quad bike and dune bashing were amazing! Food was delicious and live entertainment fantastic! Would Highly recommend