Overnight Desert Safari Dubai: Your Complete Guide to a Night Under the Stars
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. here 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 what an overnight desert safari Dubai trip is all about. 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 starts like a normal evening trip, with one big difference: instead of going home after dinner, you stay. 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, and everything is ready when you arrive.
What Happens and When
Afternoon 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. Then you stop on a high dune to watch the sun go down.
Camel rides, sandboarding and dinner
At the camp, you can ride a camel and try sandboarding. You can have as many soft drinks as you like. Then it's time for the overnight safari with BBQ dinner: a full BBQ buffet. After dinner, you watch Tanoura, fire and belly dance shows.
Night under the stars
Once the shows end and the evening guests head home, the camp gets very quiet. You can sit outside and enjoy the stars, which shine much brighter out here than in the city. Then you head to your tent for the night.
Sunrise and breakfast
Get up early for the desert sunrise Dubai visitors rave about. 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 sleep in a tent, close to the sand and far from the noise of the city. 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 small taste of how desert families lived long ago.
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
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.
Prefer to stay with just your own group? A private overnight desert safari costs AED 750 per private car. You get a car and driver just for your group, which suits families, couples and friends.
Is It Safe to Sleep in the Desert?
Yes. The camp is a set, supervised site, not a random spot in the sand. Our team is close by all 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.
How to Sleep Well in the Desert
• Bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper
• Set your alarm for sunrise, it's worth it
• Have your phone light handy for the night
• Keep drinking water through the evening
• Keep your shoes inside the tent to avoid sand
What to Bring
• A jumper or jacket, as nights get cool between November and March
• Comfortable clothes to sleep in
• Toiletries and a toothbrush
• A fully charged power bank
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Any medication you take
Which Month Is Best?
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 the summer, nights are warm, so it suits people who are fine with the heat. Weekends and holidays get booked early, so plan a few days ahead.
Who Is This Trip For?
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 love the light at sunset and sunrise. 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.
Your Questions, Answered
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?
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?
You'll be back at your hotel by around 7:30 AM, which leaves the whole day free.
Is breakfast included?
Yes, breakfast is included before we drive you back.
Can I add a quad bike?
Yes, you can add a quad bike ride for AED 80. Tell us when you book so we can plan the time.
Is there anywhere to charge my phone?
Bring a power bank to be safe.
Book Your Night in the Desert
You'll be talking about your overnight desert safari Dubai trip for a long time. 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.