Overnight Desert Safari Dubai: What It's Really Like to Sleep in the Desert
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 get the dunes, the sunset and the dinner, and then it's time to go home. 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. At Overnight Safari Dubai, it's the trip we love most, and below, we 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 sleep 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. Your driver is licensed and very experienced on the sand.
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. 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, there's a Tanoura show, a fire show and a belly dance show.
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 are much brighter 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.
About the Camp
Our Lahbab overnight camp is built in a traditional Bedouin style. You sleep in a tent, close to the sand and far from the noise of the city. It's simple, here but that's the point. There's no TV and no traffic, just the sound of the wind and maybe a camel nearby. 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.
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. 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. 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.
Tips for a Better Night
• Bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper
• Set an alarm for sunrise so you don't miss it
• Keep a small torch or phone light near your bed
• Drink plenty of water during the evening
• Put your shoes inside the tent so sand stays out
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
• Sunglasses and sunscreen for the evening and morning
• Any medication you take
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 and holidays get booked early, so plan a few days ahead.
Is It Right for You?
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 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
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the overnight safari OK for kids?
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. The rest of the year, nights are mild or 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.
Do we get breakfast in the morning?
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?
It's best to bring a power bank, just in case.
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. 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.