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 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. Here at Overnight Safari Dubai, it's our favourite trip, and below, we explain exactly how it works, what you'll need and what it costs.
How Does the Overnight Trip Work?
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 Overnight Desert Safari Dubai 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.
Your Trip, Hour by Hour
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.
Dune bashing and sunset
When you get to the Lahbab desert, the dune bashing starts. The car goes up, over and down the red dunes, and you'll probably laugh the whole way. After that, you stop on a high dune for the sunset.
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 full BBQ buffet. 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 enjoy the stars, which are much brighter here than in the city. Then it's time to sleep in your tent.
Morning in the desert
Wake up early for a desert sunrise Dubai guests always remember. The sky turns pink and orange as the light spreads over the dunes. After breakfast, we drive you back to your hotel, arriving at about 7:30 AM.
Where You Sleep
Our Lahbab overnight camp is built in a traditional Bedouin style. You stay in a tent, surrounded by sand and far from any traffic. It's simple, but that's the point. There's no TV and no traffic, just the sound of the wind and maybe a camel nearby. For most guests, that silence is the whole reason they came. 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.
Overnight Desert Safari Price
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. For everything included, it's great value.
Would you rather keep it to your own group? The private overnight desert safari is AED 750 per 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'd like to know more about the overnight desert camp Dubai setup, ask us before booking.
Simple Tips for Your 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
• 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
• A toothbrush and basic toiletries
• A power bank for your phone
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• 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 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 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 love the light at sunset and sunrise. 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. 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
Is the overnight safari OK for kids?
Yes, kids are very 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.
Do we get breakfast in the morning?
Yes, breakfast is included before we drive you back.
Is quad biking available on the overnight trip?
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.
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.