Overnight Desert Safari Dubai: What It's Really Like to Sleep in the Desert
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 gets quiet, the sky fills with stars, and in the morning the sun rises over the sand.
That's the whole idea behind an overnight desert safari Dubai trip. Here at Overnight Safari Dubai, it's our favourite trip, and below, we explain exactly how it works, what to pack and how much it costs.
How Does the Overnight Trip Work?
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
Around 3 PM: pickup
We pick you up from your hotel or home in Dubai or Sharjah at around 3 PM. Your driver is licensed and very experienced on the sand.
Into the dunes
Once you reach the Lahbab desert, the dune bashing begins. The 4x4 climbs and slides over the red dunes, and it's a lot of fun. Then you stop on a high dune to watch the sun go down.
Evening at camp
At the camp, you can ride a camel and try sandboarding. Soft drinks are unlimited all evening. Then it's time for the overnight safari with BBQ dinner: 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 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 as the light spreads over the dunes. After breakfast, we drive you back, and you're at your hotel by around 7:30 AM.
The Bedouin 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. For most guests, that silence is the whole reason they came. 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.
How Much Does It Cost?
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. For everything included, it's great value.
Prefer to stay with just 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.
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 stays nearby through the night, and the camp has lighting for walking around after dark. Most guests say they felt completely relaxed, and many say it was the best sleep of their holiday. 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
• Keep drinking water through the evening
• Keep your shoes inside the tent to avoid sand
Your Overnight Packing List
• A warm layer, because desert nights can be cool from November to March
• Comfortable clothes to sleep in
• A toothbrush and basic toiletries
• A power bank for your phone
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Any medication you take
Best Time to Go
October to April is the best time for a night in the desert. Days are warm and nights are cool, which makes sleeping outside very pleasant. In summer, nights stay warm, so it's best for people who don't mind the heat. Weekends and holidays get booked early, so plan a few days ahead.
Is It Right for You?
Couples enjoy it because it feels like a true getaway. Families like it because kids get to camp, see the stars and ride a camel. Photographers come for the sunset and sunrise light. And if you need a break from the city, the silence is wonderful.
Other Trips We Run
We also run an evening click here desert safari for AED 100, a VIP desert safari for AED 130 and a morning safari for AED 150. For more action, there's red dune bashing at AED 139, quad biking at AED 80 and sandboarding in Lahbab at AED 80. There's also a Hummer safari at AED 200 and a desert photography tour at AED 250.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can children come on the overnight trip?
Yes, families are welcome. Children usually love camping and the camel ride.
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?
You'll be back at your hotel by around 7:30 AM, which leaves the whole day free.
Is breakfast included?
Yes. Breakfast is part of the trip, served before the drive home.
Is quad biking available on the overnight trip?
Yes. A quad bike ride can be added 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.
How to Book
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. All our trips are listed at overnightsafaridubai.com. Tell us your date and how many people are coming, and we'll take care of the rest.