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Evening desert safari Dubai sunset over the dunes
DTCM LICENSED · OWN CAMP · FROM AED 35 · PAY ON ARRIVAL

Evening Desert Safari Dubai From AED 35

The complete evening desert safari: afternoon dune bashing, a golden desert sunset, camel rides and sandboarding, then a BBQ buffet dinner and live shows under the stars at our own camp. From AED 35 per person, no deposit, pay on arrival. This guide covers timings, the full itinerary, exact prices and everything to know before you go.

Evening Desert Safari Dubai From AED 35: The Short Answer

The complete evening desert safari: afternoon dune bashing, a golden desert sunset, camel rides and sandboarding, then a BBQ buffet dinner and live shows under the stars at our own camp.

  • How much does an evening desert safari cost?: With us it starts at AED 35 per person for self-drive, AED 50 for shared bus pickup, AED 100 for a shared 4×4 hotel pickup, and AED 799 for a private car for up to seven guests.
  • How long does it take and how far is the camp?: The full evening runs about six to seven hours, with roughly five hours at the desert and camp.
  • What time does the evening desert safari start and finish?: Pickup is in the mid-afternoon, usually around 3:00 to 3:30 PM, timed so you reach the dunes for sunset.
  • What is included in the evening safari?: Dune bashing, the sunset stop, a camel ride, sandboarding, a BBQ buffet dinner (veg and non-veg, halal), unlimited soft drinks, henna for ladies, shisha, traditional costumes for photos, separate washrooms, and eight live shows including belly dance, LED Tanoura and a fire show.
  • How do I book and get tickets?: Booking is direct on WhatsApp. Message us with your date, number of guests and whether you want pickup or self-drive, and we confirm in minutes.
  • Is the evening desert safari safe, including for children and families?: Yes. Dune bashing is handled by experienced drivers in seat-belted 4x4s with the intensity adjusted to your group, and camel riding and sandboarding are gentle and beginner-friendly.

Everything we run in Dubai, with the price on the card

All prices are per car, not per person, unless the card says otherwise. You are booking the operator directly.

Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa at golden hour4 hours
Most booked

Half-Day Dubai City Tour

Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Frame, Old Dubai, the Creek abra and the Gold Souk in a private 4×4.

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Private vehicle, no other guests
  • Morning or evening, same price
  • Photo stops, not a drive-past
Sedan or SUVAED 699USD 190
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day
Decorated pavilion street with palm trees at Global Village Dubai in daytime8 hours
Both Dubais

Full-Day Dubai City Tour

New Dubai in the morning, Old Dubai in the afternoon — Palm Jumeirah, Marina, the souks and the Creek.

  • The only route reaching both Dubais
  • Up to 6 people in one car
  • Lunch stop where you choose
  • Ends at the Fountain show
Sedan or SUVAED 899USD 245
Land CruiserAED 1,199USD 326
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day
Traveller smelling saffron and spices at the spice souk4 hours
Heritage half day

Old Dubai and the Souks

Al Fahidi wind-tower district, the AED 1 abra across Dubai Creek, the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk.

  • Abra crossing costs AED 1 each
  • Short, flat walking
  • Best in the morning
  • Car waits, you walk
Sedan or SUVAED 699USD 190
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day
Dubai Marina and the city at night, seen on a Dubai stopover tour4 hours
Evening run

Dubai by Night

The Fountain show, Downtown at full light, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Marina, JBR and Bluewaters.

  • Starts around 5:30 PM
  • Fountain show every 30 minutes
  • Most of the stops are free
  • Good after a day out
Sedan or SUVAED 699USD 190
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day
Desert sand dunes glowing at sunrise6 hours
The classic

Desert Safari From Dubai

Dune bashing, camel ride, sandboarding, a Bedouin camp with BBQ dinner and live shows.

  • Private 4×4, up to 7 guests
  • Hotel pickup and drop included
  • Camp is DTCM licensed
  • Shared seats from AED 35 per person
Sedan or SUVAED 799USD 218
Land CruiserAED 999USD 272
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day
Hatta Dam turquoise lake with kayak dock surrounded by Hajar MountainsFull day
Full day out

Dubai to Hatta Tour

Hatta Dam, kayaking, the heritage village and the Hajar Mountains. No passport, no border crossing.

  • 90 minutes each way
  • Kayak hire paid on site
  • Best October to April
  • You set the timings
Sedan or SUVAED 1,199USD 326
Land CruiserAED 1,499USD 408
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day
Driver loading luggage into a vehicle at Dubai International airportOne way
Arrival or departure

DXB Airport Transfer

Meet and greet with a name board at arrivals, flight tracking, luggage handled, one fixed price at any hour.

  • Name board at arrivals
  • Flight tracked, delays covered
  • No surge at 3 AM
  • Fixed price, per car
Sedan or SUVAED 799USD 218
Land CruiserAED 899USD 245
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day
Driver loading luggage into a vehicle at Dubai International airportBy the hour
You set the route

Car with Driver, As Directed

No fixed route. Your own car and driver by the hour — shopping, meetings, whatever the day needs.

  • AED 250 per hour sedan or SUV
  • AED 350 per hour Land Cruiser
  • Four-hour minimum
  • Wait time included
Per hour, sedan or SUVAED 250USD 68
Per hour, Land CruiserAED 350USD 95
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day
Guests walking out of the Museum of the Future entrance in DubaiPer attraction
Driver waits

Dubai Attraction Transfers

A private car to Burj Khalifa, the Mall, the Frame, the Palm or the seasonal parks, with the driver waiting outside.

  • Waiting time included
  • Salik, fuel and parking included
  • Tickets bought direct, not by us
  • Child seats on request
Per carAsk on WhatsApp
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day
Quad bike rider on Dubai desert dunes — AED 200 single, 300 doublePer ride
Add-on

Quad Biking

An automatic quad on a marked desert track with a guide riding ahead. The cheapest way to add adrenaline.

  • AED 200 single rider
  • AED 300 double
  • Guide rides with the group
  • No licence needed
Single riderAED 200USD 54
DoubleAED 300USD 82
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day
Can-Am dune buggy with roll cage on the golden dunes of Al Khatim, Abu Dhabi30 min blocks
Add-on

Dune Buggy

A Can-Am buggy on the dunes, booked by ride time. Sold as an add-on to the safari, not instead of it.

  • AED 800 per 30 minutes
  • Two-hour minimum
  • Helmet and briefing included
  • Decide before you arrive
Per 30 minutesAED 800USD 218
Per car unless stated · No deposit · Pay the driver on the day

Dubai Desert Safari Packages & Prices

Every package below runs from our own camp in Dubai. Pick how you want to reach the camp — the safari and dinner are the same in all of them.

DCT LicensedOfficial Dubai tourism operator
Secure BookingNo card needed · pay on arrival
4.9★ Google RatedVerified by real guests
Trusted by 5,000+Happy guests since day one
🔥 Peak Season Oct–Apr: Limited daily spots available — we recommend booking at least 3 days in advance. Check availability now →
Self drive desert safari Dubai AED 35 AED 35 per person

Self-Drive Desert Safari

Drive your own car to our Dubai camp, park free, and join the full safari and dinner. The cheapest way in.

  • Free parking at the camp
  • Full camp programme & dinner
  • Dune bashing with our drivers
  • No pickup — you arrive yourself
BOOK NOW — AED 35 Camp location & directions
Shared bus desert safari Dubai AED 50 AED 50 per person

Shared Bus Transfer

A seat on our bus from a central Dubai pickup point and back. Cheapest seat that includes transport.

  • Return transfer by bus
  • Central Dubai pickup point
  • Full camp programme & dinner
  • Fixed departure time
BOOK NOW — AED 50 See all Dubai prices
Shared 4x4 hotel pickup desert safari Dubai AED 100 AED 100 per person

Shared Hotel Pickup

A shared 4×4 collects you from your Dubai hotel and returns you after dinner. Door to door.

  • Hotel door pickup & drop
  • Shared 4×4 with other guests
  • Dune bashing on the way in
  • Full camp programme & dinner
BOOK NOW — AED 100 Pickup timings
Private car desert safari Dubai AED 799 AED 799 per car

Private Car Desert Safari

A private 4×4 for your group only, up to 7 people, hotel pickup and drop. One price for the whole car.

  • Private 4×4 — your group only
  • Up to 7 people in one price
  • Hotel pickup & drop
  • Flexible departure time
BOOK NOW — AED 799 Private safari details
VIP sitting area upgrade desert safari Dubai +AED 50 per person

VIP Sitting Area Upgrade

Premium private majlis seating at the Dubai camp. Add it to any option above.

  • Private majlis seating
  • Away from the main crowd
  • Table service
  • Adds to any package
ADD VIP — AED 50 Luxury safari options

Add-Ons & Extras

Customise your safari — add any of these to your chosen package.

Included free in every safari: 4×4 dune bashing, short camel ride, sandboarding, ladies henna (basic), unlimited water, soft drinks, tea & coffee, a shisha corner, snacks, separate washrooms, BBQ buffet dinner (veg & non-veg) and around 8 live shows. Optional upgrades: extra dune bashing AED 150 per vehicle, long camel ride AED 300 for 2 persons, full henna design AED 30–50, and table-side shisha AED 50. No hidden charges — what you see is what you pay.
5,000+ Happy Guests
Trusted desert operator
4.9-Star Rated
Verified by real guests
🚗
Hotel & Home Pickup
All Dubai areas covered
💬
WhatsApp Booking
+971 58 228 2683 — reply in minutes

Add-Ons You Can Book on the Day

These are optional extras at the Dubai camp. You can add any of them when you book, or decide once you are there — the price does not change either way.

🔥 Peak Season Oct–Apr: Limited daily spots available — we recommend booking at least 3 days in advance. Check availability now →
Quad biking Dubai desert safari from AED 200 AED 200 single / 300 double

Quad Biking

Ride an automatic quad on the Dubai dunes. AED 200 for a single seater, AED 300 for a double seater.

  • Automatic — no gear changing
  • Single seater AED 200
  • Double seater AED 300
  • Helmet and briefing included
BOOK NOW — AED 200 Quad biking guide
Can-Am dune buggy Dubai desert safari AED 800 AED 800 / 30 min · 2h min

Can-Am Dune Buggy

A two-seat Can-Am buggy on the open dunes for 30 minutes. The strongest ride we run.

  • Two-seat Can-Am buggy
  • 30 minutes on the dunes
  • Helmet & goggles included
  • Driver must be 18+
BOOK NOW — AED 800 Dune buggy details
Falcon photo experience Dubai desert safari AED 30 AED 30 per person

Falcon Photo Experience

Hold a trained falcon on your glove and get the photo. Thirty seconds, and it is the picture people keep.

  • Trained falcon & handler
  • Glove provided
  • Your own camera or phone
  • Children can hold it too
BOOK NOW — AED 30 See safari photos
Long camel ride Dubai desert safari AED 300 AED 300 for two

Long Camel Ride

A proper long camel ride for two people across the dunes, not the short loop everyone gets.

  • Two people on the ride
  • Long route across the dunes
  • Handler walks with you
  • Photos taken for you
BOOK NOW — AED 300 Full safari details
Extra dune bashing Dubai desert safari AED 150 AED 150 per vehicle

Extra Dune Bashing

An additional dune bashing run in the 4×4 after the standard one, priced per vehicle not per person.

  • Extra run in the 4×4
  • Priced per vehicle
  • Share the cost with your group
  • Ask the driver at the camp
BOOK NOW — AED 150 Dune bashing guide
Professional photography Dubai desert safari AED 50 to 150 AED 50–150

Professional Photography

A photographer shoots you on the dunes at sunset and hands over edited images the same evening.

  • Professional photographer
  • Sunset dune shoot
  • Edited images same evening
  • Package depends on shot count
BOOK NOW — AED 50–150 Read guest reviews

Add-Ons & Extras

Customise your safari — add any of these to your chosen package.

Included free in every safari: 4×4 dune bashing, short camel ride, sandboarding, ladies henna (basic), unlimited water, soft drinks, tea & coffee, a shisha corner, snacks, separate washrooms, BBQ buffet dinner (veg & non-veg) and around 8 live shows. Optional upgrades: extra dune bashing AED 150 per vehicle, long camel ride AED 300 for 2 persons, full henna design AED 30–50, and table-side shisha AED 50. No hidden charges — what you see is what you pay.
5,000+ Happy Guests
Trusted desert operator
4.9-Star Rated
Verified by real guests
🚗
Hotel & Home Pickup
All Dubai areas covered
💬
WhatsApp Booking
+971 58 228 2683 — reply in minutes
Professional belly dancer in colourful costume at a desert safari camp
Guests posing with Can-Am dune buggy at a desert safari
Friends sharing dinner together at a desert safari camp
Dramatic red sand dunes of desert glowing at sunrise
Multiple camels lined up for camel ride at a desert safari
Group of tourists riding camels at a desert safari
Desert safari sandboarding on golden dunes
Camel ride experience in Morning Desert Safari
BBQ Buffet Dinner in the Desert
Desert safari VIP private 4x4 luxury
desert safari BBQ dinner buffet
Desert safari henna painting cultural

What is the evening desert safari and what time is it?

The evening desert safari is the most popular Dubai desert tour. You are collected in the mid-afternoon, usually around 3:00 to 3:30 PM, driven into the desert for dune bashing, stop for the sunset, then spend the evening at a Bedouin-style camp with a BBQ buffet dinner, camel rides, sandboarding and live shows, before being dropped back around 9:30 to 10:00 PM. The whole experience lasts about six to seven hours.

With Royal Arabian Safari the evening safari starts at AED 35 per person for self-drive, AED 50 for shared bus pickup, AED 100 for a shared 4×4 hotel pickup, and AED 799 for a private car for up to seven guests. Every option includes dune bashing, the sunset, a camel ride, sandboarding, the BBQ dinner, unlimited soft drinks and all the live shows. Because you book directly with us, the camp operator, there is no agency commission, which is why our price is far below the usual AED 120 to AED 500.

AED 35From, per person
6-7 hrsTotal experience
4.9★From 5,000+ guests
8 showsLive at the camp

Why the Evening Safari Is Dubai’s Most Popular Desert Tour

Of all the ways to experience the Dubai desert, the evening safari is the one almost everyone chooses, and for good reason. It packs the three things people come to the desert for into a single outing: the adrenaline of dune bashing, the beauty of a desert sunset, and a long, relaxed evening of food, culture and entertainment at the camp. You arrive while there is still light for the drive and the photographs, and you stay through dinner and the shows as the desert cools and the stars come out.

It also fits a normal holiday day perfectly. The morning and early afternoon stay free for the beach, the malls or the city, and the safari fills the late afternoon and evening, the coolest and most atmospheric part of the day. That is why the evening tour outsells the morning, sunrise and overnight options many times over.

We are Royal Arabian Safari, a desert safari operator licensed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. We run our own camp in the Dubai desert, we have hosted more than five thousand guests, and we hold a 4.9 star average rating. This page is a complete, honest guide to the evening safari with us: the exact timings and how they change with the seasons, the full step-by-step itinerary, every price, what to wear, who should think twice, and answers to the questions first-timers actually ask.

Evening Desert Safari Itinerary, Step by Step

Here is exactly how your evening unfolds, from the moment we collect you to the drop-off back in Dubai. Times shift a little with the season and the sunset, but the sequence stays the same.

Evening desert safari Dubai dune bashing before sunset
Evening desert safari Dubai dune bashing before sunset
TimeStageWhat happens
3:00 – 3:30 PMPickupWe collect you from your Dubai hotel or residence, or you set off to the camp using the GPS pin we send for self-drive. The drive to the desert takes around 50 to 65 minutes depending on traffic.
4:00 – 4:30 PMDune bashingYour experienced driver takes you across the dunes in a 4×4, a thrilling but controlled ride over the sand. Tell us if you want it gentle or lively; you are in control of the intensity.
5:00 – 5:30 PMSunset stopThe drive pauses at a high dune for the sunset, the most beautiful light of the day and the best photographs of your trip. This is the heart of the evening safari.
5:30 – 6:00 PMCamel ride and sandboardingRide a camel across the sand and try sandboarding down the dunes, both included and suitable for all ages.
6:30 PMArrive at the campSettle into the Bedouin-style camp with carpet and cushion seating. A welcome starter is served, and you can have henna applied, dress in traditional Arabic costumes for photos, and pose with a falcon.
7:00 – 8:00 PMLive showsThe stage comes alive with eight live performances including belly dance, the glowing LED Tanoura, a fire show and more, all while the desert cools around you.
8:00 – 9:00 PMBBQ buffet dinnerA full BBQ buffet is served, with separated vegetarian and non-vegetarian sections and halal meat, plus unlimited soft drinks, water, tea and coffee. Relax with shisha in the designated area.
9:30 – 10:00 PMDrop-offWe drive you back to your Dubai hotel, or you head home from the camp, full, happy and with a camera full of photos.

Private groups can adjust this schedule, and self-drive guests simply join the same activities at the camp. Tell us your preferred pace on WhatsApp and we will tailor it.

Sunset Times by Month: When Your Evening Safari Should Start

The single most important thing about an evening safari is timing it so you reach the dunes for sunset. Sunset in Dubai shifts by more than ninety minutes across the year, from around 5:35 PM in midwinter to past 7:00 PM at midsummer, so the right pickup time changes with the season. No other operator publishes this, so here is the guide. Pickup is timed roughly two and a half to three hours before sunset to allow the drive and the dune bashing first.

Couple watching the sunset on an evening desert safari in Dubai
Couple watching the sunset on an evening desert safari in Dubai
MonthApprox. sunsetSuggested pickupNotes
January~5:55 PM~3:00 PMCool, clear evenings, peak season
February~6:10 PM~3:15 PMVery comfortable, peak season
March~6:25 PM~3:30 PMWarm days, pleasant nights
April~6:35 PM~3:45 PMWarming up, still very pleasant
May~6:50 PM~4:00 PMHot by day, cooler at the camp
June~7:05 PM~4:15 PMLatest sunsets, hot, quieter
July~7:05 PM~4:15 PMHot, late sunset, easy to book
August~6:50 PM~4:00 PMHot, evenings ease after dark
September~6:20 PM~3:30 PMStill warm, season picking up
October~5:55 PM~3:00 PMComfortable again, popular
November~5:40 PM~2:45 PMCool evenings, high season
December~5:35 PM~2:45 PMEarliest sunset, coolest, busiest

These sunset times are approximate and shift slightly week to week. When you book, we confirm the exact pickup time for your date so you never miss the sunset. In the cooler months from November to March, bring a light jacket; the desert drops several degrees once the sun is down.

Best Time of Year for an Evening Safari

The evening safari runs all year, and because it takes place in the cooler part of the day, even the hot months work well. Here is how the seasons compare.

October to April is the most comfortable and the busiest. Days are warm and evenings are cool and pleasant, ideal for sitting around the camp after dark. This is peak season, so booking a day or two ahead is wise, especially in December and January when the desert fills up. May to September is hot by day, but the evening safari remains enjoyable because the heat eases sharply after sunset, and the camp comes alive in the cooler night air. Summer is also quieter and the easiest time to book at short notice, often at the best value.

Whatever the month, the evening is always the coolest, most atmospheric time to be in the desert, which is the main reason the evening safari is more comfortable than the midday hours.

Where the Camp Is and Which Areas We Collect From

Our camp sits in the Dubai desert on the golden dunes of Al Awir, roughly 40 kilometres and about a 50 to 65 minute drive south-east of central Dubai along the Dubai-Hatta Road. It is one of the closest desert camps to the city, so you spend less time travelling and more time on the dunes.

We collect guests from hotels and residences right across Dubai, including Downtown, Marina, JBR, Deira, Bur Dubai, Business Bay and the Palm, and from a central meeting point for the shared bus. Self-drive guests receive a live GPS pin straight to the camp, so there is no guesswork. Tell us where you are staying on WhatsApp and we will confirm your exact pickup time and point. For full directions and the map, see our Dubai desert safari location page.

Prefer the dramatic red dunes for your evening drive instead of golden sand? We also run evening safaris on the taller red dunes at Lahbab; see our Lahbab red dunes safari page.

Everything You Do on the Evening Safari

From the first dune to the final fire show, here is what your evening includes.

Dune Bashing on evening desert safari Dubai

Dune Bashing

A thrilling 4×4 ride over the dunes before sunset

Sunset Stop on evening desert safari Dubai

Sunset Stop

The golden-hour highlight of the evening

Camel Riding on evening desert safari Dubai

Camel Riding

Ride a camel across the desert sand

Sandboarding on evening desert safari Dubai

Sandboarding

Glide down the dunes on a board

Falcon Photo on evening desert safari Dubai

Falcon Photo

Pose with a falcon, a UAE icon (add-on)

Henna Art on evening desert safari Dubai

Henna Art

Free henna designs for ladies

Belly Dance on evening desert safari Dubai

Belly Dance

One of eight live stage shows

LED Tanoura on evening desert safari Dubai

LED Tanoura

Spinning, glowing traditional dance

Fire Show on evening desert safari Dubai

Fire Show

A dramatic fire performance after dinner

BBQ Buffet Dinner on evening desert safari Dubai

BBQ Buffet Dinner

Veg and non-veg grilled buffet, halal

Shisha on evening desert safari Dubai

Shisha

Relax with shisha in the designated area

Arabic Costumes on evening desert safari Dubai

Arabic Costumes

Dress up for traditional photos

What Is Included in the Evening Safari

Every booking, even the AED 35 self-drive, comes with the complete evening experience at no hidden cost:

4×4 dune bashing
Sunset stop and photography
Camel ride
Sandboarding
BBQ buffet dinner, vegetarian and non-vegetarian
Unlimited soft drinks, water, tea and coffee
Henna painting for ladies
Shisha in the designated area
Welcome starter on arrival
Traditional Arabic costumes for photos
Separate clean washrooms for men and women
Carpet and cushion camp seating
Eight live shows: belly dance, LED Tanoura, fire show and more
Tea, coffee and dates

Food and drink: the BBQ buffet has separated vegetarian and non-vegetarian sections and the meat is halal. Unlimited soft drinks, water, tea and coffee are included. We are a family-friendly camp and alcohol is not part of the standard package. Tell us about any allergies or dietary needs when you book.

Evening Desert Safari Prices

Every package includes the same full evening experience; the only difference is how you travel to the camp. Prices are fixed, final and per person unless stated.

PackageHow you travelBest forPrice
Self driveYou drive to the camp on paved roads (GPS pin sent)Residents, budget travellersAED 35
Shared busCoach pickup from a central Dubai pointSolo travellers, couplesAED 50
Sharing 4×4Shared 4×4 pickup from your hotel or homeMost hotel visitorsAED 100
Private carPrivate vehicle, door to door, up to 7 guestsFamilies and groupsAED 799 / car
Lahbab red dunesPremium red-dune evening safariAdventure seekersOn WhatsApp

A family of four pays just AED 140 in total on the self-drive package, or a group of seven can take a private car for AED 799, about AED 85 each. The golden-dune Al Awir safari carries the fixed prices above; the premium Lahbab red-dune evening safari is quoted directly on WhatsApp. For a full breakdown see our Dubai desert safari price page.

Optional Add-Ons

None of these are required, but you can add them to your evening. Pre-booking on WhatsApp is cheaper than paying at the camp.

Add-onDetailsPrice
Quad bike (single)One rider across the desertAED 200
Quad bike (double)Two riders, tandemAED 300
Dune buggySelf-drive buggy, 30 minutes, up to 2AED 800
VIP private seatingUpgraded private seating at the campAED 50 / person
Falcon photoPose with a falconAED 30
Long camel rideExtended camel ride for twoAED 300 / 2 people
Photography packageProfessional photos of your groupAED 50 – 150
Henna full designDetailed henna (basic is free)AED 30 – 50

What to Wear and Bring to an Evening Safari

Most websites skip this, so here is the honest answer. The evening safari starts warm and ends noticeably cooler once the sun sets, so dressing in light layers is the trick.

What to wear

Light, loose, breathable clothing is best for the warm drive and the activities, and yes, you can wear a dress. Bring or wear something a little warmer for after sunset, especially from November to March when the desert cools quickly in the evening, so a light jacket, shawl or hoodie is ideal. Comfortable closed shoes or sandals you do not mind getting sandy work well for climbing dunes, riding a camel and walking around the camp. We suggest modest, comfortable clothing out of respect for local culture and because you will be sitting on the sand and moving between activities.

What to bring

A light jacket or shawl for after sunset
Sunglasses for the late-afternoon drive
A fully charged phone or camera for the sunset
A little cash for optional extras or tips
Closed or easy-to-clean shoes for the sand
Any personal medication you may need

You do not need to bring food, water or towels; unlimited drinks and the BBQ dinner are provided, and Arabic costumes for photos are available at the camp at no extra cost.

Is the Evening Safari Safe? Dune Bashing, Camels and Children

The evening safari is safe for the vast majority of visitors, including families and first-timers, and most activities are gentle. Here is a straight answer on each.

Is dune bashing safe?

Yes. Every drive is handled by an experienced desert driver in a well-maintained 4×4 with seatbelts, and the intensity is adjusted to your group. On our golden-dune route at Al Awir the ride is smooth and bouncy rather than extreme. Tell the driver you have children or nervous passengers and they keep it gentle; ask for more thrill and they can give it. You control how intense it gets.

Is camel riding safe?

Yes. Camels are led by a handler at walking pace and are very docile. It is a short, gentle ride suitable for children and older guests, with help getting on and off.

Is sandboarding safe?

Yes. Sandboarding is done on gentle slopes at low speed, with no special training needed. You sit or stand and glide down soft sand, and a fall simply means a soft landing.

Is it safe for children and families?

Absolutely, families make up a large share of our guests. Children love the camp, the camels and the shows. For infants and very young children we adjust or skip the dune bashing, and children under three typically join free.

Who Should Skip the Dune Bashing

We would rather you have the right experience than simply sell a ticket. The evening safari suits almost everyone, but a few people should sit out the dune bashing while still enjoying the sunset, camp, dinner and shows.

Pregnant guests

The bumps of dune bashing are not recommended during pregnancy. Expectant mothers can still join, enjoy the camp gently and skip the drive.

Very young children and infants

The dune bashing can be too bumpy for infants and toddlers, though they usually love the camp itself. Children under three typically join free.

Elderly guests, back, neck or heart conditions

If you have a fragile back or neck, a heart condition, or limited mobility, skip the dune bashing and relax at the camp at your own pace. The camp is on flat, accessible sand. When in doubt, ask your doctor and tell us when booking.

Prone to motion sickness

Choose our gentler golden-dune route, eat lightly beforehand, sit toward the front and ask the driver to go smoothly, or skip the drive entirely and still enjoy everything else.

Alcohol, Ramadan and Desert Etiquette

A few cultural questions come up often, so here are honest answers.

Is alcohol served?

Our standard evening safari is a family-friendly, dry camp and alcohol is not part of the package. This keeps the atmosphere relaxed and suitable for all ages. The experience, the dinner and the shows stand on their own without it.

Does the safari run during Ramadan?

Yes, evening safaris run during Ramadan, and the desert at this time has a special calm. Timings and the dinner are adjusted respectfully around iftar. If you are visiting during Ramadan, message us and we will explain exactly how the evening works on your date.

Any etiquette to know?

Very little. Dress modestly and comfortably, ask before photographing other guests or performers up close, and simply relax. Our team is used to visitors from all over the world and will guide you through everything. Removing shoes around the seating carpets is appreciated but not required.

Evening vs Sunset, Morning and Private Safaris

People often ask how the evening safari compares with the other options. Here is a clear, honest comparison.

SafariWhat it isBest forPrice from
EveningThe full classic: afternoon dune bashing, sunset, dinner and showsMost visitors, the best all-round choiceAED 35
SunsetAn evening safari timed tightly around the sunset; in practice the same as our evening tourPhotographers, couplesAED 35
MorningA shorter, cooler ride and activities in the morning, no evening shows or dinnerEarly risers, those short on evening timeOn WhatsApp
PrivateYour own vehicle and group, evening itinerary, full privacy and flexibilityFamilies, couples, special occasionsAED 799 / car

For most people the standard evening safari is the best value and the most complete experience, since it is the only one that includes the sunset, the BBQ dinner and all the shows. A private evening safari is worth it when you want privacy, flexible timing or are marking a birthday, anniversary or proposal; it is the same evening, just yours alone. See our private safari and morning safari pages for more.

Why Is Our Evening Safari Only AED 35? Is There a Catch?

When evening safaris are advertised between AED 120 and AED 500, an AED 35 price makes people ask what is missing. Nothing is missing. The price is low for a structural reason, not a trick, and there is no catch.

We own the camp

No reseller or platform between you and the desert. You pay the operator directly.

No agency commission

Listing sites add 30 to 60 percent. Book direct and that margin disappears, not the experience.

DTCM licensed

A licensed Dubai operator under the Department of Economy and Tourism, not an unregistered pop-up.

Pay on arrival

No deposit and no prepayment. You pay only when you reach the camp, your guarantee the price is real.

A word of caution the other way: prices even lower than ours in some adverts often exclude transfers, dinner or activities, with the real cost appearing at checkout. Our AED 35 is the complete price for the complete evening, with optional extras listed openly. More than five thousand guests and a 4.9 star rating later, the model speaks for itself.

Evening Desert Safari Dubai: Key Facts at a Glance

Royal Arabian Safari runs a DTCM-licensed evening desert safari from its own camp in the Dubai desert, on the golden dunes of Al Awir about 40 kilometres south-east of central Dubai. The evening desert safari starts at AED 35 per person for self-drive, AED 50 for shared bus pickup, AED 100 for shared 4×4 hotel pickup, and AED 799 for a private car for up to seven guests. Pickup is in the mid-afternoon, around 3:00 to 3:30 PM, timed so guests reach the dunes for sunset, with drop-off around 9:30 to 10:00 PM; the full experience lasts about six to seven hours. It includes 4×4 dune bashing, a sunset stop, a camel ride, sandboarding, a BBQ buffet dinner (vegetarian and non-vegetarian, halal), unlimited soft drinks, henna for ladies, shisha, traditional costumes for photos, and eight live shows including belly dance, LED Tanoura and a fire show. Sunset in Dubai ranges from about 5:35 PM in December to past 7:00 PM in June, so pickup times shift by season. Optional add-ons include a quad bike from AED 200, a dune buggy at AED 800 for 30 minutes, VIP seating at AED 50 and a falcon photo at AED 10–30. The standard camp is a family-friendly dry camp; alcohol is not included. Booking is direct via WhatsApp at +971 58 228 2683, with no deposit and payment on arrival. Royal Arabian Safari holds a 4.9 star average rating from more than 5,000 guests and also runs red-dune evening safaris at Lahbab.

First-Timer Tips and Desert Sunset Photography

Couple taking sunset photos on an evening desert safari in Dubai
Couple taking sunset photos on an evening desert safari in Dubai

A few simple things make a first evening safari go smoothly, and most of them no one tells you beforehand.

Time your photos for the golden hour

The half hour before sunset gives the warmest, softest light of the whole day. Keep your phone or camera charged and ready during the sunset stop, this is when the best shots happen. Shoot with the sun behind your subject for glowing silhouettes, or to the side for rich golden tones on the dunes.

Go light on the dune bashing if you have just eaten

The dune bashing comes early, so eat lightly beforehand. The big BBQ dinner is served later at the camp, so there is no need to arrive full.

Bring a layer for after dark

Guests are often surprised how much cooler the desert feels once the sun is down, especially in winter. A light jacket turns a slightly chilly evening into a comfortable one.

Use the costumes and quiet moments

The traditional Arabic costumes are free and make wonderful photos against the dunes. And once the shows are underway, step a few metres from the camp lights to see how many stars appear; the desert sky is far darker than the city.

Above all, relax and let the evening unfold. Our team guides you through every activity, so there is nothing to organise once you are picked up; you simply enjoy it.

Age Policy, Cancellation and Good to Know

Age policy

The evening safari is suitable for all ages. Children are welcome and under-threes typically join free. Infants and very young children can skip the dune bashing and enjoy the camp. There is no upper age limit; older guests simply choose how much of the dune bashing they take part in.

Cancellation and changes

Because there is no deposit and you pay on arrival, changing or cancelling is simple. Just message us in good time and we will reschedule or cancel at no cost. Letting us know early helps us free up the spaces for other guests.

Phone signal and valuables

There is usually mobile signal at the camp, though it can be patchy on the dunes. The camp is safe and supervised, but as anywhere, keep your valuables with you. There is no need to bring large amounts of cash; only optional extras are paid at the camp.

Washrooms and accessibility

The camp has separate, clean washrooms for men and women. The seating area is on flat sand and comfortable for most guests, though deep sand makes wheelchair use difficult; if you have specific accessibility needs, message us first and we will tell you honestly what is manageable.

If there is anything else you want to check before booking, just ask us on WhatsApp; we would rather answer a question now than have you wonder on the day.

Evening Desert Safari Dubai: Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the evening desert safari start and finish?
Pickup is in the mid-afternoon, usually around 3:00 to 3:30 PM, timed so you reach the dunes for sunset. Drop-off is around 9:30 to 10:00 PM. The whole experience lasts about six to seven hours. Exact pickup shifts with the season because sunset ranges from about 5:35 PM in winter to past 7:00 PM in summer; we confirm your exact time when you book.
How much does an evening desert safari cost?
With us it starts at AED 35 per person for self-drive, AED 50 for shared bus pickup, AED 100 for a shared 4×4 hotel pickup, and AED 799 for a private car for up to seven guests. Every price includes dune bashing, the sunset, camel ride, sandboarding, BBQ dinner and live shows. Optional extras such as quad bikes (from AED 200) are listed openly.
How do I book and get tickets?
Booking is direct on WhatsApp. Message us with your date, number of guests and whether you want pickup or self-drive, and we confirm in minutes. There is no deposit and no prepayment; you pay on arrival once you reach the camp.
What is included in the evening safari?
Dune bashing, the sunset stop, a camel ride, sandboarding, a BBQ buffet dinner (veg and non-veg, halal), unlimited soft drinks, henna for ladies, shisha, traditional costumes for photos, separate washrooms, and eight live shows including belly dance, LED Tanoura and a fire show. Quad bikes, a dune buggy, VIP seating and falcon photos are optional extras.
How long does it take and how far is the camp?
The full evening runs about six to seven hours, with roughly five hours at the desert and camp. Our camp is on the golden dunes of Al Awir, about 40 kilometres and a 50 to 65 minute drive south-east of central Dubai.
What’s the difference between the evening, sunset, morning and private safari?
The evening safari is the full classic with dune bashing, sunset, dinner and shows. A sunset safari is essentially the same evening tour timed around the sunset. A morning safari is shorter and cooler with no evening shows or dinner. A private safari is the same evening itinerary in your own vehicle with full privacy and flexible timing.
Is the evening desert safari safe, including for children and families?
Yes. Dune bashing is handled by experienced drivers in seat-belted 4x4s with the intensity adjusted to your group, and camel riding and sandboarding are gentle and beginner-friendly. Families make up a large share of our guests; children love the camp. We adjust or skip the dune bashing for infants and very young children.
What should I wear and bring?
Light, loose clothing for the warm drive, plus a light jacket or shawl for after sunset, especially November to March. Comfortable closed shoes for the sand. Bring sunglasses, a charged phone or camera, and a little cash for extras. You do not need to bring food, water or towels.
Who should not do the evening safari?
Almost everyone can enjoy it, but pregnant guests, infants, the elderly, and anyone with a serious back, neck or heart condition should skip the bumpy dune bashing while still enjoying the sunset, camp, dinner and shows. If prone to motion sickness, choose the gentler golden-dune route or skip the drive.
Is pickup and drop-off included, and which areas do you cover?
Hotel and residence pickup is included on the shared 4×4 (AED 100) and private car (AED 799) packages, and we collect from across Dubai including Downtown, Marina, JBR, Deira, Bur Dubai, Business Bay and the Palm. The shared bus uses a central meeting point, and self-drive guests get a GPS pin to the camp.
Is alcohol served, and does it run during Ramadan?
Our standard camp is a family-friendly dry camp, so alcohol is not part of the package. Evening safaris do run during Ramadan, with timings and dinner adjusted respectfully around iftar; message us and we will explain how your date works.
Do I have to pay a deposit, and can I cancel?
No deposit is required. You book on WhatsApp and pay on arrival. If your plans change, message us in good time and we will reschedule or cancel; just let us know as early as you can.
Do you run desert safaris and tours in Dubai as well as Abu Dhabi?

Yes. We are an Abu Dhabi based DCT-licensed operator running our own camp in the Al Khatim desert, and we also arrange Dubai desert safaris and Dubai city tours. If you are staying in Dubai but want the taller, quieter Abu Dhabi dunes and the lower price from AED 35, we run transfers from Dubai.

What is included in the Abu Dhabi desert safari?

Every evening package includes 4×4 dune bashing, a short camel ride, sandboarding, a sunset photo stop, Arabic costume for photos, henna for ladies, a full BBQ buffet dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, unlimited soft drinks, water, Arabic coffee and tea, a shisha corner, separate washrooms and around eight live shows including tanoura, belly dance and a fire show.

How much does a desert safari in Abu Dhabi cost?

Booking direct with us: AED 35 self-drive, AED 50 shared bus from Al Wahda or Mazyad Mall, AED 100 shared hotel pickup, AED 799 for a private 7-seater car and AED 999 for a private Land Cruiser. Agencies and hotel desks typically charge AED 180 to 250 per person for the same evening because they add commission on top of an operator price.

What time does the desert safari start and finish?

Pickup is usually 3:00 to 3:30 PM and you are back in the city around 10:00 to 10:30 PM. Timings follow sunset, so in December pickup moves earlier and in June it moves later.

Book Your Evening Desert Safari From AED 35

Dune bashing, a golden sunset, a BBQ dinner and live shows under the stars, with an honest price, no deposit and no hidden fees. Message us on WhatsApp and we will confirm your exact pickup time in minutes.

Book Now on WhatsApp

Book Your Dubai Desert Safari

Send the form and we reply on WhatsApp with the exact pickup time for your area. Nothing is charged online — you pay the driver or at the camp.




    If we have to cancel, what happens?

    A cancellation policy that covers your obligations but not ours is only half a document. Here is our side of it, in writing.

    If we have to cancel your booking — for weather, a vehicle issue, or driver illness — we will contact you as soon as we know and rebook you at no charge on the next date that works for you. You pay nothing for the cancelled booking.

    If we need to send a different vehicle than the one you booked, we will ask you first rather than turning up in something you did not book.

    This is separate from your own cancellation rights, which are unchanged: you can cancel free up to 12 hours before pickup. Because we take no deposit and no booking fee, there is no money of yours sitting with us either way — nothing to chase, and nothing to wait for.

    Book this tour

    No deposit and no card details. Message us and we confirm the plan and the exact price before you commit — answered at any hour.

    1. Send your date and guest countYour date, how many of you, and where we collect from. That is all we need.
    2. We send the plan and the pricePer car, not per person. You see the route, the timings and the exact figure first.
    3. Pay the driver on the dayCash or card, after the run. Free cancellation up to 12 hours before pickup.
    Book on WhatsApp

    Answered 24 hours · No deposit · No booking fee · Licensed operator

    From AED 699 per carBook on WhatsApp