Ras Al Khaimah Afternoon Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner

The red dunes of the Ras Al Khaimah desert

Ras Al Khaimah is the northernmost of the seven emirates, known for its mix of mountains, mangroves, beaches and desert. Inland from the coast, the land rises into rolling dunes of fine red-orange sand, coloured by the iron oxide in the grains. The desert here feels wide and quiet, with far fewer vehicles than the busiest safari areas of the UAE.

That is the main reason travellers choose a Ras Al Khaimah desert safari: you get the same classic experience of dunes, sunset and a desert camp, but in a calmer setting and within easy reach of the resorts on the coast. The drive from most hotels to the dunes is short, so more of your afternoon is spent in the desert and less on the road.

The camel farm

On the way into the dunes your driver stops at a traditional camel farm, where herds of camels are raised by local families. Camels have been central to Emirati life for centuries, carrying goods across the desert and providing milk, wool and transport, and today they are also bred for the popular camel races held in winter.

Your guide explains the different types of camels you see around Ras Al Khaimah, how they survive the heat with little water, and how the herds are looked after. It is a great stop for photos, especially for children who see these animals up close for the first time. The visit adds a cultural touch to the safari before the adrenaline of the dune drive begins.

Dune drive and sunset on the dunes

Back in the 4x4, your experienced driver takes you across the dunes on a dune drive, often called dune bashing: climbing steep crests, sliding down the slopes and weaving between the sand ridges. Seat belts stay on, and the driver adjusts the ride to the group, so it is thrilling without being reckless.

As the light softens, the vehicle stops on a high dune so you can watch the sunset. The sand turns deep orange, long shadows stretch across the valleys and the desert becomes silent. Many travellers say this is the best moment of a desert safari, and the best time to visit the dunes is from October to April, when the evenings are pleasantly cool.

The desert camp: camel rides, sandboarding and henna

After sunset you arrive at a traditional desert camp with low majlis seating, carpets and cushions arranged around a central stage. You are welcomed in true Emirati style with Arabic coffee and dates, the traditional gesture of hospitality across the Arabian Peninsula.

Before dinner there is time for the camp activities included in your safari. Take a short camel ride around the camp, try sandboarding down a dune, or have a henna design painted on your hands or feet. You can also dress up in traditional Arabic costume for photos, and there is a shisha corner for those who wish. The camp is lit with lanterns, which makes it a magical setting once night falls.

Barbecue dinner and live shows under the stars

Dinner is a full barbecue buffet with grilled meats, salads and side dishes, plus a shawarma station and an Arabic bread station where the bread is baked fresh. Unlimited soft drinks, water, tea and coffee are included. As in the rest of the UAE, the meat served is halal.

During dinner the stage comes alive with a tanoura performance, the spinning folk dance in which the dancer whirls in colourful layered skirts, followed by a belly dance show. Afterwards you can relax under the stars before the drive back to your hotel. For many visitors this evening is the highlight of their Ras Al Khaimah holiday, and the memory they talk about most once they are back from the desert.