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When people think of Dubai, they often envision glass towers and luxury shopping malls, or man-made islands. But just a little ways out of the city is a desert so vast that it goes on as far as the eye can see in all directions, and here visitors can do something they definitely can’t do within the confines of Dubai: an overnight desert safari. This is not just some after-dinner activity that stops when it gets dark it’s a whole adventure that continues into the night and allows you to wake up to the sunrise over endless dunes. The concept can, admittedly, seem a bit daunting to the novice. Sleeping in the desert? What about food, safety Department of Food Service There will be bag lunches for each child in an effort to limit traffic within our buildings, which includes maintaining social distancing through the serving line. The good news is that overnight safaris are designed with first-timers in mind. Everything from transportation to bedding is arranged by your safari operator, so there’s no special camping experience or gear necessary. You just book it, show up at the right time and see what happens.
Desert Safari overnight camp What exactly happens on a Overnight desert safari?
Itinerary The itinerary on overnight safari is more or less the same everywhere although working hours differ. It typically begins late in the afternoon when a 4×4 vehicle collects you from your hotel or from a central meeting point in Dubai. After a brief ride out of the city, you’ll reach the desert’s edge, where your driver will let some air out of the tires in anticipation of dune bashing. It’s the point at which the vehicle rolls up and down steep dunes, in a rollercoaster-like experience across the sand. It is exciting for some first-time participants, and a bit nerve-racking for others, but trained drivers always very meticulously control the speed and movement to make it fun rather than dangerous.
After dune bashing, you can catch the sunset with most tours including a photo stop. The light’s beautiful at this time of day and it just becomes one of those moments people remember for a very long time after the trip is over. After that, you’re typically given an opportunity to try camel riding and sandboarding. Camel rides are brief, lasting five or 10 minutes, but they convey a sense of how Bedouins journeyed for centuries. Sandboarding is also on offer and operates similarly to snowboarding just you’re gliding down dunes instead of icy mountains. For most newcomers, it’s never easier to try, since the sand provides a soft landing if you fall.
Desert camp entertainment continues during the evening, when guests are served tea or coffee before getting settled for the night. Dinner is a buffet service, and there are usually at least 2-3 entrees of grilled meats, rice dishes (usually made while you watch), salads and desserts. Vegetarian selections will usually be on hand, though if you have any dietary restrictions it’s wise to confirm with your tour operator ahead of time. After dinner, cultural performances begin. Those can ranges from belly dancing, tanoura (traditional spin dance), or even fire shows. And though these shows are touristy and tailored for tourists, they’re bright and entertaining just right if you want a taste of local culture in a fun, not-heavy-handed way.
Once the shows are over, most of the day-trip visitors return to the city. That is when the overnight experience truly begins. Camps lower their lights, the desert silences and stills. Away from city lights and the night sky unfolds with sparkling stars. Those who have booked the overnight packages are provided with bedding, including mattresses and blankets in basic tents or even private rooms and air-conditioning if you’ve really splashed out. Camping in the desert is usually pleasant, especially during the winter months. Early in the morning, you’re shaken awake to see sunrise and eat a gentle breakfast before driving back into town.
Why Should You Choose an Overnight Instead of Evening Safari?
When it comes to the budget, many of the newcomers are curious if it’s okay not spending night in desert and can head back to their hotel after evening safari. The answer to that depends on what you’re looking for in the experience, but there are certainly benefits of spending the night. The peace and quiet left behind is quite the opposite, to start. The camp gets more intimate, the desert is sprawling and empty and you have a chance to really unplug. Stargazing is another benefit. The desert is far from Dubai’s city lights, so the night sky is particularly clear, especially between October and April. For some visitors, it is the first time they have seen such a sky.
Another reason is the sunrise. As beautiful as a sunset is, this morning light quieting untouched dunes is actually even more captivating. And the practical: if you’ve trekked to the desert, staying overnight allows for a trip that’s not as rushed and feels more full. Rather than packing everything into one evening, you can stretch and savor things slowly.
Best Time to Go on Overnight Safaris
The desert of Dubai is unforgiving extreme in the summer, with daily temperatures often north of 40°C (104°F). Safari camps are set up to cater for visitors throughout the year; however, the most suitable time for overnight is from October to April. These months are warm days, but not so hot that one suffers and cool nights that anyone can sleep through. If you do book in the summer months, see if the operator of your choice offers air-conditioned tents it can mean the difference between having a good night’s sleep and not.
Packing Checklist for Beginners
Packing doesn’t have to be complicated. You’re not rough camping, you’re staying at a set-up site. At the same time, it makes life on the road easier to have certain essential items. For cooler winter evenings, don a sweater or light jacket. During the day wear comfortable, breathable clothes and pack an extra set for the morning. For dune bashing and sandboarding, closed shoes are best; sandals work around the camp. Sunblock, sunglasses and a hat are helpful in the afternoon sun. Personal hygiene items such as wet wipes, toothbrush and hand sanitizer are good to pack as well. And keep in mind your phone or camera, though you may want to bring extra storage if you intend on taking copious photos.
What Beginners Shouldn’t Do In The First Place
One of the most typical blunders is that people often buy the cheapest pacakage and then do not check what’s included. A few budget safaris don’t include dune bashing, or they lack proper bedding for overnight guests often to disappointing effect. Another faux pas is wearing the wrong clothing. Tight jeans or high heels are the worst things to wear in sand, and heavy fabrics can cause you to overheat. Medical conditions are also an underrecognized variable. Pregnant women, very young children and people with back problems should not take part in dune bashing. If you fall into any of these groups, request a “soft” safari in which you are excluded from the rougher ride. Finally, a lot of people pack their stuff for the night and then forget they fare much better if they are wearing it in the morning. Have fresh, comfortable clothes to exchange for your return trip.
What’s the Cost of an Overnight Desert Safari?
The cost of an overnight desert safari will vary according to your desired level of comfort. Packages can start at around AED 250–400 per person for basic dune bashing, dinner, entertainment and simple overnight tented accommodation. Premium or luxury packages usually cost AED 600−1200 and may feature air-conditioned tents, private shower facilities, gourmet food and additional activities such as quad biking or falconry displays. A standard package will suffice to provide the full experience without emptying your wallet for first-time visitors, but comfort seekers may find such an upgrade worth the fare.
Why to Book with Sunset Desert Adventure?
Choosing the right operator matters. Sunset Desert Adventure is all about traditional hospitality and the modern comforts. We are a local guides and our drivers who have extensive experience in navigating the desert routes, specialise and safety. Camps come fully equipped, child-friendly ones and those on a budget alongside more premium options to pick what suits you. We focus on honest to goodness, Bedouin-style environments but we provide comfort through good bedding and clean facilities and service. For newcomers, it’s a sense of security. There’s no need to guess or worry about the basics. All is taken care of, so all that’s left for you to do is enjoy the adventure.
FAQs
Is sleeping in the desert safe over night?
Yes. The camps are funded, secured and designed for tourists. You’re not going to be abandoned in the woods.
Can children join?
Most operators welcome families. Camel rides and sandboarding are typically the favourite for kids.
Are there proper washrooms?
Standard camps have shared washrooms. Luxury camps provide private facilities.
Is camping experience necessary?
No. Everything is provided. Overnight desert safaris cater to novices.
Final Tips Before You Go
Book in advance, as safaris can be quite popular during the busy winter months. Let your operator know if you have dietary requirements in advance. Only take what you nedd,why drag around a big case. And don’t forget: The desert is different at every time of day. Just remain open to the experience, whether it’s the thrill of dune bashing, the tranquillity of stargazing or just plain old breakfast outdoors.