Thinking About an Overnight Desert Safari Dubai Trip? Read This First
Most desert trips in Dubai end at around 9 PM. You get the dunes, the sunset and the dinner, and then it's time to go home. But the desert is at its best after the crowds have gone. 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. At Overnight Safari Dubai, it's the trip we love most, and in this guide we'll explain exactly how it works, what you'll need and what it costs.
What Is an Overnight Desert Safari?
An overnight safari starts like a normal evening 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, watch the sunrise and have breakfast before we drive you back. It's desert camping Dubai style, with everything set up for you.
Your Trip, Hour by Hour
Around 3 PM: pickup
Pickup is at about 3 PM from your hotel or home in Dubai or Sharjah. Our drivers are licensed and know the desert well.
Into the dunes
When you get to the Lahbab desert, the dune bashing starts. 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. Soft drinks are unlimited all evening. Then comes the overnight safari with BBQ dinner part of the evening: a full BBQ buffet. After dinner, there's a Tanoura show, a fire show and a belly dance show.
Night under the stars
When the shows finish and the day visitors leave, the camp becomes very peaceful. You can sit outside and enjoy the stars, which are much brighter here than in the city. Then it's time to sleep in your tent.
Sunrise and breakfast
Get up early for the desert sunrise Dubai visitors rave about. The sky turns pink and orange as the light spreads over the dunes. After breakfast, we drive you back, and you're at your hotel by around 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, but that's the point. You won't hear traffic or TV, only the wind and the odd camel. Most guests say that quiet is exactly what they came for. A Bedouin camp overnight stay gives you a feel for old desert life.
Want to sleep in the desert Dubai style but still be comfortable? Just tell us when you book, and we'll make sure your stay is as comfortable as possible.
How Much Does It Cost?
Our overnight desert safari price is AED 170 per person. For that, you get 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? The private overnight desert safari is AED 750 per car. You get your own vehicle and driver, which is perfect for families, couples and small groups of friends.
Safety at the Camp
Yes. You stay at a proper, supervised camp, not out on your own. Our team stays nearby more info through the night, and there's lighting so you can walk around safely after dark. Most guests say they felt completely relaxed, and plenty say they slept better than in the city. If you'd like to know more about the overnight desert camp Dubai setup, ask us before booking.
Tips for a Better Night
• Bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper
• 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
• Put your shoes inside the tent so sand stays out
Your Overnight Packing List
• A jumper or jacket, as nights get cool between November and March
• Something comfy to sleep in
• A toothbrush and basic toiletries
• A fully charged power bank
• Sunglasses and sunscreen for the evening and morning
• Any medicines you need
Best Time to Go
October to April is the best time for a night in the desert. 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 love it because it feels like a real escape. Families like it because kids get to camp, see the stars and ride a camel. Photographers come for the sunset and sunrise light. And anyone who's tired of busy city life will enjoy the quiet.
If You Have More Time
Other trips include an evening safari at AED 100, a VIP safari at AED 130 and a morning safari at 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.
Your Questions, Answered
Can children come on the overnight trip?
Yes, families are welcome. Children usually love camping and the camel ride.
How cold does it get?
Between November and March, it can get cool at night, so pack a jumper. For the rest of the year, nights are mild to warm.
When will I be back at my hotel?
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 included before we drive you back.
Is quad biking available on the overnight trip?
Yes. A quad bike ride can be added for AED 80. Let us know when booking so we can fit it in.
Can I charge my phone at the camp?
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. Call or WhatsApp us on +971 50 991 2456 to book. 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.