I still remember my Desert Safari trip on December 15th, where we paid around 150 AED per person for the entire experience, including the BBQ dinner. Our driver, Rashid, took us to a camp near Al Awir, where we enjoyed a night of feasting and entertainment. So, what can you expect from the food at these camps? You'll get a mix of Arabic dishes, like hummus and tabbouleh, and BBQ favorites, such as grilled chicken and lamb.
Look, the BBQ spread is usually quite impressive, with a variety of meats and vegetables to choose from. I ordered the mixed grill, which came with chicken, beef, and lamb, all cooked to perfection. And, the best part is, you can try a bit of everything without breaking the bank - most camps offer unlimited food and drinks for a fixed price, usually around 100-150 AED per person.
But, the Arabic dishes are the real stars of the show. I'm a big fan of falafel, and the ones served at the camp were crispy and flavorful. You'll also find dishes like shawarma, kebabs, and machboos, all made with fresh ingredients and spices. Honestly, the food is so good, you'll want to go back for seconds (and thirds, and fourths...).
Here's the thing: the drinks and desserts are just as important as the main course. You'll find a variety of juices, soft drinks, and tea, as well as traditional Arabic coffee. And, for dessert, you can expect to find options like baklava, kunafeh, and muhalabia. I tried the baklava, which was sweet and nutty, and paired perfectly with a cup of coffee.
So, while you're enjoying your meal, you'll also be treated to some amazing entertainment. From belly dancing to tanoura shows, there's something for everyone. You can even take a camel ride or try your hand at henna painting. We took a break from eating to watch the belly dancing show, which was performed near the Dubai Dolphinarium — you can also book tickets for the dolphin show through Roamigo Trips.
And, finally, here's a practical tip: be sure to book your Desert Safari tour in advance, especially if you want to secure a spot with VIP seating — you can book your tour through Roamigo Trips. You can also combine your desert safari with other activities, like a visit to the Burj Khalifa, for a discounted price. Don't forget to bring your camera, as the views of the sunset are simply stunning. And, if you're planning to visit other attractions in Dubai, consider purchasing a metro card, which can be used to travel from Al Awir to other parts of the city, including the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station.
Written by
The Roamigo Trips editorial team is based in Dubai and passionate about helping travellers discover the best of the UAE. Our writers have first-hand experience across desert safaris, city tours, and everything in between.
Meet the team →