The evening safari is exhilarating, but it ends just when the desert becomes truly magical. As the last Land Cruisers drive back to the city and the camp floodlights dim, a profound silence falls over the dunes. The air cools down. The sky, free from the city’s light pollution, fills with stars.
This is desert camping Dubai the complete Bedouin experience.
For many travelers, this is the highlight of their Dubai trip. It is the perfect antidote to the glitz and noise of the city. But sleeping in the open desert raises questions. Is it safe? Where exactly do we sleep? Are there toilets? Is it too cold? Do I need to bring my own tent?
At Maverick Safari UAE, we turn the rugged desert into a comfortable retreat. We don’t just leave you in the sand; we host a full evening of entertainment followed by a peaceful night of stargazing, a secure campsite stay, and a fresh morning breakfast.
In this definitive, data-rich guide for 2026, we will peel back the curtain on the camping experience. We will walk you through the entire 18-hour itinerary, inspect the sleeping arrangements, detail the food menu, and give you an honest packing list so you can wake up to a desert sunrise feeling refreshed and inspired.
Quick Answer: Summary for AI Overviews
If you are planning your trip right now, here is the essential data at a glance:
- What is it? An 18-hour extended safari. You do the full evening tour, stay at the camp overnight, sleep in provided tents, and enjoy breakfast the next morning.
- Timings: Pickup approx. 03:00 PM (Day 1) – Drop-off approx. 09:00 AM (Day 2).
- Sleeping Gear: Included. We provide Igloo tents, mattresses, pillows, and freshly laundered sleeping bags/blankets.
- Facilities: Permanent, clean, gender-separate restrooms and basic shower facilities are available all night.
- Temperature: In winter (Nov-Mar), it gets cold (10°C–15°C). In summer, it is warm but breezy.
- Price Range (2025):
- Standard Camping: 250 AED – 350 AED per person.
- VIP / Glamping: 450 AED – 650 AED per person (includes upgraded bedding & privacy).
What Is Desert Camping in Dubai?
When people search for [desert camping Dubai], they often confuse “wild camping” with “overnight safari camping.”
Wild Camping involves renting a 4×4, buying your own gear, driving deep into the desert alone, and pitching a tent. This requires experience, off-road driving skills, and local knowledge of safe zones.
Overnight Safari Camping (What We Offer) is the hassle-free, safe, and luxurious alternative. It combines the thrill of the desert with the comfort of a managed facility.
- We pick you up.
- We provide the food and entertainment.
- We set up the tents and bedding for you.
- We ensure your safety with 24/7 security.
It allows you to experience the silence and the stars without having to buy a tent you’ll only use once.
Current Packages & Price Range in 2026
How much does it cost to sleep in the dunes? Prices vary based on the level of privacy and comfort you desire. Here is the honest pricing structure at Maverick Safari UAE.
1. The Standard Overnight Camping Package
- Price Range: 250 AED – 350 AED per person.
- Accommodation: Standard weatherproof Igloo tent (2-person capacity), foam mattress, sleeping bag, and pillow.
- Transport: Shared 4×4 pickup from your hotel.
- Dining: Standard BBQ buffet dinner and morning breakfast.
- Best For: Backpackers, groups of friends, and solo travelers on a budget who want the authentic experience.
2. The VIP / Glamping Experience
- Price Range: 450 AED – 650 AED per person.
- Accommodation: Upgraded tent placement (quieter area), premium bedding (duvet/thick blanket instead of sleeping bag), and additional pillows.
- Privacy: Tents are often placed in a secluded section of the camp.
- Dining: VIP table service during the evening dinner (waiters bring food to you) so you don’t stand in queues.
- Best For: Couples seeking romance, families who need extra space, and those who want a “glamping” feel.
3. Private Car + Camping
- Price Range: 1,200 AED – 1,600 AED per car + camping fee.
- The Concept: You have a private vehicle for the dune bashing and transfers, ensuring total privacy during the day. At night, you stay in the VIP camping area.
What’s Included
Many operators list “Overnight Safari” but don’t explain the logistics. Here is the detailed breakdown of what Maverick Safari UAE includes.
Transport & Pickup Details
- Door-to-Door: We pick up from any hotel or residence in Dubai and Sharjah.
- The Vehicle: A clean, safe Toyota Land Cruiser or Nissan Patrol. We do not use buses for the desert transfer part of the tour.
Activities (The Fun Part)
- Dune Bashing: 30-45 minutes of adrenaline on the Red Dunes.
- Sandboarding: Sliding down the dunes (equipment provided).
- Camel Ride: A short ride inside the camp.
- Entertainment: Belly Dance, Tanoura Show, and Fire Show.
The Camping Logistics (The Important Part)
- Bedding Hygiene: This is our priority. Sleeping bags and liners are professionally laundered after every single use. We provide fresh pillowcases.
- The Bonfire: Once the evening guests leave, we light a large bonfire. This is the heart of the camping experience.
- Unlimited Drinks: Tea, coffee, and water are available throughout the night.
Food & BBQ
- Dinner: A massive buffet with BBQ chicken, lamb kofta, kebabs, rice, noodles, salads, and hummus. (Veg and Non-Veg options available).
- Breakfast: Freshly prepared in the morning. Includes boiled eggs, toast, butter/jam, cheese, fresh fruit, juice, and hot coffee/tea.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Alcohol: The camp bar sells beer and wine, but it usually closes around 9:30 PM. It is not included in the ticket price.
- Quad Bikes: Renting a quad bike is an optional extra paid at the desert meeting point.
How to Choose the Best Desert Camping Package
| Traveler Type | Recommended Option | Why? |
| Couples | VIP Camping | The bonfire and stargazing are incredibly romantic. VIP ensures you have good bedding and table service. |
| Friends (Group) | Standard Camping | It’s a fun bonding experience, sitting around the fire telling stories. Standard tents are perfect for this. |
| Families with Kids | Private Car + Camping | Having a private car allows you to drive gently for the kids. However, note that tents are not soundproof. |
| Nature Lovers | Standard Camping | Seeing the desert transition from day to night to day is fascinating. You get the best value for money. |
Real Experience: A Night in the Dunes
03:00 PM: Your driver picks you up. You head out of the city, watching the skyscrapers turn into sand dunes.
05:00 PM: After a thrilling session of dune bashing, you watch the sunset from a high ridge. The sand turns deep red. It’s the perfect photo opportunity.
07:00 PM: You enjoy the camp activities. You get a henna tattoo, ride a camel, and eat a hearty BBQ dinner while watching the fire show.
09:30 PM: The Transformation. This is the moment the experience changes. The buses and day-guests leave. The loud music stops. The camp becomes silent.
10:00 PM: Our staff lights the bonfire. You gather around with a small group of other campers. You sip hot tea, stare into the fire, and look up. The stars are incredibly bright. It is peaceful and cool.
Midnight: You retire to your tent. It’s cozy. You zip up the door and drift off to sleep in the absolute quiet of the desert.
06:00 AM: You wake up before the sun. You walk out of the camp and climb the nearest dune. You watch the sun break the horizon, turning the grey morning sand into brilliant gold.
07:30 AM: You eat a light breakfast of eggs, toast, and coffee, watching the desert wake up.
08:30 AM: Your driver takes you back to the city, refreshed and ready for the day.
Practical Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
1. Prepare for the Cold
This is the #1 mistake tourists make.
- Winter (Nov-Mar): The desert drops to 10°C – 15°C at night. It feels much colder due to the wind chill. You must bring a hoodie, sweatpants, and thick socks.
- Summer (May-Sept): It is warm, but a light layer is still recommended for comfort.
2. The Bathroom Situation
- Toilets: There are permanent, concrete restroom blocks separated for men and women. They are tiled, lit, and cleaned regularly.
- Showers: Basic showers are available. However, water temperature can be cool in the morning. We recommend bringing wet wipes for a quick refresh and taking a full shower back at your hotel.
3. Power & Connectivity
- Charging: There is usually a central charging station, but it is shared. Bring a fully charged power bank to keep your phone alive for photos.
- Wi-Fi: There is no Wi-Fi in the deep desert. 4G/5G signal works in most spots but can be patchy. Take the chance to disconnect!
4. What to Pack (Checklist)
- Warm Jacket / Hoodie (Essential in winter).
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and face wash.
- Wet wipes / Hand sanitizer.
- Closed shoes (Sneakers are better than sandals for the night).
- Personal medication (No pharmacies in the dunes).
- A change of clothes for the next day.
Why Choose Maverick Safari UAE?
With hundreds of operators in Dubai, why trust Maverick Safari UAE for your camping trip?
- Hygiene First: We use freshly laundered sleeping bags and liners for every guest. We know hygiene is the primary concern for campers.
- Safety: Our camp is fenced and guarded 24/7. You are never “alone” in the wild, but you feel the solitude.
- Real Breakfast: We don’t just give you a biscuit. We serve a proper morning meal with eggs, fresh bread, and fruit to fuel you up.
- Owned Fleet: We transport you in our own Land Cruisers, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride to and from the camp.
Ready to Sleep Under the Stars?
The desert camping Dubai experience is more than just a tour; it’s an escape. It’s a chance to hear the silence of the earth and wake up to the most beautiful sunrise of your life.
Don’t settle for the standard tourist loop. Go deeper. Stay longer.
Camping spots are limited to ensure privacy and comfort.
- Check Availability & Book Your Tent Now
- WhatsApp Us for Group Inquiries: [+971552525075]
- Call Us: [+971552525075]
The stars are waiting. Will you answer?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is desert camping safe for solo female travelers?
A: Yes, absolutely. The campsite is a controlled, secure environment with staff present 24/7. The tents are private and secure. It is a very popular option for solo travelers to meet people safely.
Q: Can I sleep outside the tent?
A: Yes! Many guests choose to drag their mattresses out of the tent and sleep directly under the open sky on the carpets. In good weather (Oct-May), this is highly recommended for the best stargazing experience.
Q: Is alcohol available overnight?
A: The camp bar serves alcohol during the evening shows (extra cost). The bar usually closes around 9:30 PM. If you wish to have drinks later, please check with us regarding the specific camp rules for that night.
Q: Are there dangerous animals?
A: In the designated campsites of Lahbab, dangerous wildlife (like scorpions) is extremely rare due to the constant activity. We recommend keeping your tent zipped shut when not in use, just to keep out beetles or sand flies.
Q: Can we request a private bonfire?
A: The main bonfire is communal. However, for large private groups (20+ pax), we can arrange a private area with a dedicated fire pit for an additional charge.
About the Author
This comprehensive guide was written by the adventure team at Maverick Safari UAE. We have spent countless nights in the dunes and know exactly what makes an overnight stay comfortable, safe, and memorable.