When most people think of Dubai, they imagine towering skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, and desert safaris. But there’s another side of Dubai that offers a completely different kind of luxury dining in the middle of the desert. If you’re planning a desert safari, make sure you don’t miss the chance to experience a desert restaurant in Dubai.
Whether you’re an adventure explorer, a romantic couple, or a family traveling to Dubai, a desert dinner under the stars is a magical way to end your day. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Dubai desert restaurants from what to expect to the best places to go and helpful tips.
Why Choose a Desert Restaurant in Dubai?
Eating in the desert is not just about food it’s an experience that touches your senses. Here’s why it’s special:
- Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of sand dunes, sunset, and starry skies.
- Cultural Atmosphere: Dine in a traditional Bedouin-style setting with carpets, cushions, and lanterns.
- Live Entertainment: Watch performances like belly dancing, fire shows, and Tanoura dance.
- Delicious Food: Taste local Emirati dishes and international cuisine freshly cooked in open-air kitchens.
- Part of Safari Packages: Many desert dinners are included in safari tours with dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding.
What to Expect at a Dubai Desert Dinner
Not sure what a desert restaurant experience includes? Here’s a quick breakdown:
1. Food Variety
- BBQ meats (chicken, lamb, beef)
- Traditional Arabic dishes like hummus, tabbouleh, and biryani
- Salads, breads, rice, and vegetarian options
- Sweets like baklava, dates, and Arabic desserts
2. Entertainment
- Live belly dance shows
- Tanoura (whirling dance)
- Fire shows
- Traditional music
3. Activities Before Dinner
- Camel rides
- Henna painting
- Falcon photo sessions
- Shisha (Arabic water pipe)
4. Facilities
- Clean restrooms
- Prayer rooms
- Comfortable seating areas with cushions or tables
- Open-air and covered dining zones
Top Desert Restaurants in Dubai
Here are some of the most popular and loved desert restaurants in Dubai that offer magical dining experiences:
1. Al Hadheerah – Bab Al Shams Desert Resort
Highlights:
- Authentic Arabian setting with castle-like architecture
- Huge buffet with Arabic and international dishes
- Live performances including camel parades, sword fights, and music
- A luxury option for special occasions
Perfect For:
- Couples, honeymooners, and luxury seekers
2. Sonara Camp
Highlights:
- Eco-friendly, sustainable desert restaurant
- Fine dining with global fusion dishes
- Beautiful views of the desert and sunset
- Activities like archery, fire shows, and stargazing
Perfect For:
- Families, luxury travelers, and eco-conscious tourists
3. Meliha Desert Camp Dining
Highlights:
- Located in the Sharjah desert, close to Dubai
- Stargazing and fossil experiences included
- BBQ dinner with Arabic delicacies
- Ideal for nature lovers
Perfect For:
- Adventure seekers, nature fans, and families with kids
4. Platinum Heritage Desert Dining
Highlights:
- Premium experience with heritage-based storytelling
- Traditional Emirati meals served in private camps
- Vintage Land Rovers and wildlife safaris
- Peaceful setting with no crowds
Perfect For:
- Travelers wanting a quiet, cultural experience
5. Evening Desert Safari Camps with BBQ Dinner
Many tour companies offer evening desert safari tours that end with dinner at desert restaurants. These camps are designed for tourists and offer everything from dune bashing to buffet dinners and live shows.
Common Features:
- Buffet dinner with live stations
- Belly dance, fire, and Tanoura shows
- Camel ride and sandboarding
- Group seating or VIP private areas
Perfect For:
- First-time visitors, groups, and budget travelers
Best Locations for Desert Dining in Dubai
You’ll find desert restaurants and camps spread across the following popular areas:
- Lahbab Desert: Famous for its red dunes and thrilling dune bashing.
- Al Marmoom Desert: Home to desert wildlife and peaceful vibes.
- Al Aweer and Al Awir: Well-connected and commonly used for desert safari camps.
- Dubai Conservation Reserve: A protected area where luxury safaris and eco-tourism happen.
Best Time to Visit a Desert Restaurant
Dubai’s desert climate can be hot in the summer. To enjoy the full experience, plan your dinner accordingly.
Ideal Months:
- October to April (Cooler weather and comfortable evenings)
Best Time of Day:
- Evening (for sunsets, cooler temperatures, and nighttime entertainment)
Pro Tips:
- Book in advance during the tourist season
- Wear light clothes and bring a jacket for the evening chill
How to Book a Desert Dinner Experience
There are a few easy ways to reserve a spot at a desert restaurant in Dubai:
- Book Through a Tour Company: Many safari tour providers include dinner.
- Direct Reservation with Camps/Hotels: Some desert resorts allow direct booking.
- Use a Travel Agent: If you want a personalized plan, a travel agent can arrange everything.
- Online Booking Platforms: Choose your date, package, and dining option online.
Tips for the Best Experience
Make your desert dinner in Dubai smooth and enjoyable with these helpful tips:
- Arrive Early to enjoy camel rides, photo ops, and sunset views
- Bring Cash for tips, souvenirs, and optional activities
- Stay Hydrated carry water especially if you’re doing dune bashing
- Try Local Dishes to truly experience Emirati flavors
- Join Cultural Activities like henna or falcon shows for full value
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there vegetarian and vegan options?
A: Yes, most desert restaurants offer vegetarian choices. Some also cater to vegan diets if requested in advance.
Q: Is alcohol available at desert restaurants?
A: Some luxury desert restaurants offer alcohol, but not all. Always check beforehand.
Q: Are these experiences child-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Most desert dining experiences include family-friendly activities like camel rides and sand art.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Comfortable, light clothing during the day. Bring a jacket or shawl for cooler desert evenings.
The Desert Dining Experience: A Must-Do in Dubai
A desert restaurant in Dubai is more than just a place to eat it’s a journey through culture, tradition, and natural beauty. Whether you’re sitting under the stars enjoying local dishes or watching a fire show after a thrilling dune ride, it’s a memory you’ll carry forever.
For out-of-country visitors, there’s no better way to end a day in the desert than with a Dubai desert dinner in the middle of golden dunes.
Ready for Your Own Desert Dining Experience?
Explore our desert safari packages with unforgettable dining options designed just for you. From belly dance shows to BBQ buffets and camel rides, we’ve got everything to make your Dubai desert evening perfect.