Overnight Desert Safari Dubai: Your Complete Guide to a Night Under the Stars
Most safaris in Dubai have you back at your hotel by 9 PM. You see the dunes, enjoy the sunset and dinner, and then you head back. 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. At Overnight Safari Dubai, it's the trip we love most, and in this guide we'll explain exactly how it works, what to pack and how much it costs.
What Is an Overnight Desert Safari?
An overnight safari starts like a normal evening trip, with one big difference: you don't go home after dinner. You sleep 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, 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. Our drivers are licensed and know the desert well.
Dune bashing and sunset
Once you reach the Lahbab desert, the dune bashing begins. The 4x4 climbs and slides over the red dunes, and you'll probably laugh the whole way. Then you stop on a high dune to watch the sun go down.
Evening at camp
At camp, there's a camel ride and sandboarding. Soft drinks are unlimited all evening. 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.
Bedtime in the desert
Once the shows end and the evening guests head home, the camp gets very quiet. You can sit outside here 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 to your hotel, arriving at about 7:30 AM.
The Bedouin 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, 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 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. 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 stays nearby through the night, and there's lighting so you can walk around safely after dark. Guests usually tell us they felt totally at ease, and many say it was the best sleep of their holiday. If you'd like to know more about the overnight desert camp Dubai setup, ask us before booking.
Simple Tips for Your Night
• Pack earplugs if small sounds wake you up
• Set your alarm for sunrise, it's worth it
• Have your phone light handy for the night
• Drink plenty of water during the evening
• Put your shoes inside the tent so sand stays out
What to Pack
• A jumper or jacket, as nights get cool between November and March
• Comfortable clothes to sleep in
• A toothbrush and basic toiletries
• A fully charged power bank
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Any medication you take
When Should You Book?
The best months for an overnight safari are October to April. Days are warm and nights are cool, which makes sleeping outside very pleasant. 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 come for the sunset and sunrise light. And if you need a break from the city, the silence is wonderful.
More Desert Trips
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.
Common 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?
From November to March, nights can feel cool, so bring a warm layer. 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, which leaves the whole day free.
Is breakfast included?
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. Let us know when booking so we can fit it in.
Is there anywhere to charge my phone?
Bring a power bank to be safe.
Ready to Sleep Under the Stars?
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.