Thinking About an Overnight Desert Safari Dubai Trip? Read This First
Most desert trips in Dubai end at around 9 PM. You see the dunes, enjoy the sunset and dinner, and then you head back. But some of the best moments in the desert happen after everyone else has left. The camp goes quiet, the stars come out, and the next morning you wake up to a sunrise over the dunes.
That's the whole idea behind an overnight desert safari Dubai trip. Here at Overnight Safari Dubai, it's our favourite trip, and in this guide we'll explain exactly how it works, what to pack and how much it costs.
The Overnight Trip in a Nutshell
An overnight safari is a normal evening desert trip with one big difference: you don't go home after dinner. You spend the night at a Bedouin-style camp in the Lahbab desert, then watch the sunrise and eat breakfast before heading back. It's desert camping Dubai style, and everything is ready when you arrive.
A Night in the Desert, Step by Step
Afternoon pickup
We pick you up from your hotel or home in Dubai or Sharjah at around 3 PM. Our drivers are licensed and know the desert well.
Dune bashing and sunset
Once you reach the Lahbab desert, the dune bashing begins. The car goes up, over and down the red dunes, and it's a lot of fun. After that, you stop on a high dune for the sunset.
Evening at camp
At camp, there's a camel ride and sandboarding. You can have as many soft drinks as you like. Then comes the overnight safari with BBQ dinner part of the evening: a big buffet with grilled dishes. After dinner, you watch Tanoura, fire and belly dance shows.
Bedtime in the desert
When the shows finish and the day visitors leave, the camp becomes very peaceful. You can sit outside and look at the stars, which shine much brighter out here than in the city. Then it's time to sleep in your tent.
Sunrise and breakfast
Wake up early for a desert sunrise Dubai guests always remember. The sky turns pink and orange, and the dunes slowly light up. After breakfast, we drive you back to your hotel, arriving at about 7:30 AM.
About the Camp
The Lahbab overnight camp has a traditional Bedouin feel. You stay in a tent, surrounded by sand and far from any traffic. It's simple, and that's the charm. You won't hear traffic or TV, only the wind and the odd camel. For most guests, that silence is the whole reason they came. A Bedouin camp overnight stay gives you a feel for old desert life.
Want to sleep in the desert Dubai style without roughing it too much? Let us know when you book, and we'll do our best to make your night comfortable.
Prices and What's Included
The overnight desert safari price is AED 170 per person. That includes pickup and drop-off, dune bashing, sandboarding, a camel ride, the BBQ dinner, three live shows, unlimited soft drinks, a night at the camp and breakfast. When you add it all up, it's very good value.
Would you rather keep it to your own group? A private overnight desert safari costs AED 750 per private car. You get your own vehicle and driver, which is perfect for families, couples and small groups of friends.
Is It Safe to Sleep in the Desert?
Yes. You stay at a proper, supervised camp, not out on your own. Our team stays nearby through the night, and there's lighting so you can walk around safely after dark. Guests usually tell us they felt totally at ease, and plenty say they slept better than in the city. If you have any questions about the overnight desert camp Dubai setup, just ask us before you book.
Simple Tips for Your Night
• Pack earplugs if small sounds wake you up
• Set an alarm for sunrise so you don't miss it
• Have your phone light handy for the night
• Drink plenty of water during the evening
• Keep your shoes inside the tent to avoid sand
What to here Bring
• A warm layer, because desert nights can be cool from November to March
• Something comfy to sleep in
• Toiletries and a toothbrush
• A power bank for your phone
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Any medication you take
When Should You Book?
The best months for an overnight safari are October to April. The days are warm, the nights are cool, and sleeping in the desert feels great. In summer, nights stay warm, so it's best for people who don't mind the heat. Weekends fill up fast, so book a few days in advance.
Who Will Love It?
Couples enjoy it because it feels like a true getaway. Families love it, as kids get to camp, ride a camel and see the stars. Photographers come for the sunset and sunrise light. And anyone who's tired of busy city life will enjoy the quiet.
More Desert Trips
We also run an evening desert safari for AED 100, a VIP desert safari for AED 130 and a morning safari for AED 150. If you want more action, try red dune bashing for AED 139, a quad bike ride for AED 80 or sandboarding in Lahbab for AED 80. There's also a Hummer safari at AED 200 and a desert photography tour at AED 250.
Common Questions
Is the overnight safari OK for kids?
Yes, kids are very welcome. Most kids love the camping and the camels.
How cold does it get?
From November to March, nights can feel cool, so bring a warm layer. For the rest of the year, nights are mild to warm.
What time do we get back?
We drop you back at around 7:30 AM, so you still have the whole day ahead of you.
Is breakfast included?
Yes. Breakfast is part of the trip, served before the drive home.
Can I add a quad bike?
Yes, you can add a quad bike ride for AED 80. Let us know when booking so we can fit it in.
Is there anywhere to charge my phone?
Bring a power bank to be safe.
Book Your Night in the Desert
An overnight desert safari Dubai trip is something you'll talk about for years. To book, send us a WhatsApp or call +971 50 991 2456. You can also see all our trips at overnightsafaridubai.com. Tell us your date and how many people are coming, and we'll take care of the rest.