Overnight Desert Safari Dubai: What It's Really Like to Sleep in the Desert
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 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 what an overnight desert safari Dubai trip is all about. At Overnight Safari Dubai, it's the trip we love most, and below, we explain exactly how it works, what you'll need and what it costs.
What Is an Overnight Desert Safari?
An overnight safari is a normal evening desert 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, with everything set up for you.
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.
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. 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 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, and you're at your hotel by around 7:30 AM.
Where You Sleep
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 feel for old desert life.
Want to sleep in the desert Dubai style but still be comfortable? Let us know when you book, and we'll do our best to make your night comfortable.
How Much Does It Cost?
Our overnight desert safari price is AED 170 per website 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.
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 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 have any questions about the overnight desert camp Dubai setup, just ask us before you book.
How to Sleep Well in the Desert
• Pack earplugs if small sounds wake you up
• Set an alarm for sunrise so you don't miss it
• Keep a small torch or phone light near your bed
• Keep drinking water through the evening
• Keep your shoes inside the tent to avoid sand
What to 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
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 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 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.
Other Trips We Run
We also run an evening 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.
Common Questions
Can children come on the overnight trip?
Yes, kids are very welcome. Children usually love camping and the camel ride.
Will it be cold at night?
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, 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. 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?
It's best to bring a power bank, just in case.
Ready to Sleep Under the Stars?
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.