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 what an overnight desert safari Dubai trip is all about. Here at Overnight Safari Dubai, it's our favourite trip, and in this guide we'll explain exactly how it works, what to pack and how much 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 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
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.
Into the dunes
When you get to the Lahbab desert, the dune bashing starts. 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.
Camel rides, sandboarding and dinner
At the camp, you can ride a camel and try sandboarding. Soft drinks are unlimited all evening. Then comes the overnight safari with BBQ dinner part of the evening: 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 enjoy the stars, which shine much brighter out here than in the city. Then you head to your tent for the night.
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.
About the Camp
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, and that's the charm. 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 without roughing it too much? Just tell us when you book, and we'll make sure your stay is as comfortable as possible.
Overnight Desert Safari Price
The 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 here 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 your own vehicle and driver, which is perfect for families, couples and small groups of friends.
Safety at the Camp
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.
Tips for a Better Night
• 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
• Put your shoes inside the tent so sand stays out
Your Overnight Packing List
• 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 medicines you need
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.
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 love the light at sunset and sunrise. And anyone who's tired of busy city life will enjoy the quiet.
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.
Your Questions, Answered
Can children come on the overnight trip?
Yes, kids are very welcome. Most kids love the camping and the camels.
Will it be cold at night?
From November to March, nights can feel cool, so bring a warm layer. The rest of the year, nights are mild or 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.
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. 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.
How to Book
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.