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 safaris in Dubai have you back at your hotel by 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. Here at Overnight Safari Dubai, it's our favourite trip, 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 is a normal evening desert 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, 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
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. After that, you stop on a high dune for the sunset.
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, 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 shine much brighter out here than in the city. Then it's time to sleep in your tent.
Morning in the desert
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.
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. 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? 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 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 a car and driver just for your group, which suits families, couples and friends.
Safety at the Camp
Yes. The camp is a set, supervised site, not a random spot in the sand. Our team is close by all 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'd like to know more about the overnight desert camp Dubai setup, ask us before booking.
Tips for a Better Night
• Pack earplugs if small sounds wake you up
• Set an alarm for sunrise so you don't miss it
• Have your phone light handy for the night
• Keep drinking water through the evening
• Keep your shoes inside the tent to avoid sand
Your Overnight Packing List
• A jumper or jacket, as nights get cool between November and March
• Something comfy to sleep in
• A toothbrush and basic toiletries
• A power bank for your phone
• Sunglasses and sunscreen for the evening and morning
• Any medicines you need
When Should You Book?
October to April is the best time for a night in the desert. 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 fill up fast, so book a few days in advance.
Who Will Love It?
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 love the light at sunset and sunrise. And anyone who's tired of busy city life will enjoy the quiet.
Other Trips We Run
Other trips include an evening safari at AED 100, a VIP safari at AED 130 and a morning safari at 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. We also offer a Hummer safari for AED 200 and a desert photography tour for AED 250.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can children come on the overnight trip?
Yes, families are 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. 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 click here 7:30 AM, which leaves the whole day free.
Do we get breakfast in the morning?
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.
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?
An overnight desert safari Dubai trip is something you'll talk about for years. To book, send us a WhatsApp or call +971 50 991 2456. You can also see all our trips at overnightsafaridubai.com. Just share your date and group size, and we'll handle everything.