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 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 spend the night at a Bedouin-style camp in the Lahbab desert, watch the sunrise and get more info have breakfast before we drive you back. It's desert camping Dubai style, with everything set up for you.

What Happens and When

Afternoon pickup

We pick you up from your hotel or home in Dubai or Sharjah at around 3 PM. Your driver is licensed and very experienced on the sand.

Dune bashing and sunset

Once you reach the Lahbab desert, the dune bashing begins. The 4x4 climbs and slides over the red dunes, and it's a lot of fun. After that, you stop on a high dune for the sunset.

Camel rides, sandboarding and dinner

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 full BBQ buffet. 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 look at the stars, which are much brighter 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, and the dunes slowly light up. After breakfast, we drive you back, and you're at your hotel by around 7:30 AM.

The Bedouin Camp

The Lahbab overnight camp has a traditional Bedouin feel. 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. 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.

How Much Does It Cost?

Our overnight desert safari price is AED 170 per person. That includes 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.

Will We Feel Safe Overnight?

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 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.

How to Sleep Well in the Desert

• 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

• Drink plenty of water during the evening

• Keep your shoes inside the tent to avoid sand

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 medicines you need

Which Month Is Best?

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 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 come for the sunset and sunrise light. And if you need a break from the city, the silence is wonderful.

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. 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

Is the overnight safari OK for kids?

Yes, families are welcome. Children usually love camping and the camel ride.

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.

What time do we get back?

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.

Book Your Night in the Desert

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. All our trips are listed at overnightsafaridubai.com. Just share your date and group size, and we'll handle everything.