A desert safari in Dubai is a must-do, no matter how much time you have in the city. The golden dunes, the thrill of dune bashing, and the chance to experience the desert’s unique beauty is memorable. But when it comes to choosing between a Morning Desert Safari and an Evening Desert Safari, how do you decide which one is best for you?
Both safaris have incredible experiences, but they offer different vibes, activities, and timings. Understanding what each one offers will help you pick the safari that suits your mood, schedule, and interests. The Morning Desert Safari and the Evening Desert Safari so that you can make the right choice for your Dubai trip.
What Makes a Desert Safari in Dhabi Special?

Dubai Desert Safari litinerary typically includes thrilling activities like dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding. But whether you go in the morning or evening can change the whole feel of your desert adventure. The morning brings a peaceful vibe with cooler temperatures, while the evening offers the magic of a desert sunset, cultural experiences, and a lively atmosphere. Both are memorable, but the experience is different depending on when you go.
Morning Desert Safari Dubai

A Morning Desert Safari kicks off early, before the sun gets too hot, giving you the chance to enjoy the desert in peace. The dunes are more incredible, the sand is less harsh on the skin, and the early hours bring a calm energy to the desert. You’ll start with dune bashing, where you’ll feel the rush as your 4×4 vehicle drives over the sand. Afterward, you can enjoy a camel ride and even try sandboarding down the dunes.
This safari is perfect for those who enjoy a more peaceful and active morning. The desert feels quieter and more serene, without the crowds you might find later in the day.
Ideal for:
- Photographers who love the soft, early light of the desert.
- Families looking for a relaxed desert experience.
- Anyone who enjoys starting their day with a peaceful adventure before exploring other parts of Dubai.
Evening Desert Safari Dubai

An Evening Desert Safari takes place later in the day, often just before sunset, offering a completely different vibe. After the excitement of dune bashing, you’ll head to a desert camp where you can relax and enjoy a traditional BBQ dinner. The evening brings a lively atmosphere with belly dancing, henna painting, and other cultural performances.
Watching the sunset over the dunes is one of the highlights of this safari, and it’s followed by a whole evening of entertainment and delicious food under the stars. The desert’s temperature also cools as night sets in, making it more comfortable to enjoy evening activities.
Ideal for:
- Those who love to watch sunsets and enjoy cultural performances.
- Groups or couples who want to make the experience more social and festive.
- Anyone looking to finish the day with a memorable desert experience that includes food, fun, and entertainment.
Morning vs Evening Safari Dubai: Which is Best for You?
| Feature | Morning Desert Safari | Evening Desert Safari |
| Timing | Starts early in the morning | Starts late afternoon, lasting into the evening |
| Weather | Cooler, more comfortable for activities | Warmer during the ride, cools down after sunset |
| Crowd Levels | Fewer people, peaceful | More social, with entertainment |
| Activities Included | Dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding | Dune bashing, BBQ dinner, belly dancing, cultural shows |
| Best For | Early risers, photographers, peaceful vibes | Sunset lovers, groups, cultural experiences |
Desert Safari Dubai Pricing

The cost of a Desert safari depends on whether you choose the morning or evening option. Generally, a Morning Desert Safari is more affordable, starting at $41 for the basic package. This typically includes dune bashing, camel rides, and light refreshments.
An Evening Desert Safari is priced slightly higher, typically at $300, because it includes dinner and entertainment. If you’re looking to experience the desert more socially and festively, the evening safari might be worth the extra cost.
Best Time for Desert Safari Dubai

The best time for desert safari Dubai depends on the season. If you’re visiting during the cooler months (November to March), you can comfortably enjoy both morning and evening safaris. However, during the hot summer months (May to September), the Evening Desert Safari is the better option. The temperature in the desert can soar in the afternoon, so evening safaris offer a cooler, more comfortable experience.
For those visiting in the winter, both morning and evening safaris are great. The mornings are cooler, while the evenings offer pleasant, comfortable weather for entertainment and dinner.
Who Should Choose Morning?
A Morning Desert Safari is perfect for anyone who enjoys starting their day with quiet, peace, and adventure. It’s ideal for early risers, photographers, and families who want to make the most of their day and get an early start. The desert feels calmer in the morning, with fewer people around, making it an excellent choice if you prefer a more peaceful, less crowded experience. Plus, the cooler weather makes activities like dune bashing and camel rides more comfortable.
Who Should Choose Evening?
The Evening Desert Safari is an excellent choice for those who want a more social, festive experience. If you love sunsets, enjoy cultural performances, or are looking to relax with good food and entertainment, this safari is for you. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, and families looking for an all-in-one evening adventure that combines nature, culture, and a bit of fun under the stars.
Packing Tips for Both Safaris
Here are a few tips on what to bring, no matter which safari you choose:
- Comfortable Clothing: Light layers for the morning safari, and slightly warmer clothing for the evening safari.
- Footwear: Closed-toe shoes for dune bashing and camel rides.
- Sunglasses & Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the desert sun.
- Water: Stay hydrated, especially during activities like camel rides or sandboarding.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a Morning Desert Safari and an Evening Desert Safari is all about your preferences. If you love peaceful mornings, cooler weather, and fewer crowds, the morning safari is your perfect match. But if you’re after sunsets, entertainment, and a lively atmosphere, the evening safari is the one you’ll enjoy the most. Whichever you choose, the desert is waiting to give you a better experience full of memories, excitement, and beauty.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between a morning and evening desert safari in Dubai?
A morning safari usually runs for about 3–4 hours, starts early in cooler temperatures, and focuses on dune activities like dune bashing and camel rides, while an evening safari lasts around 6–7 hours and includes sunset views, a BBQ dinner, and cultural shows at the desert camp.
2. How long does a desert safari in Dubai typically take?
Most morning safaris are shorter, around 3.5–4 hours, including pickup and drop‑off, while evening safaris are more extended, typically around 6–7 hours, with additional activities like a sunset stop, dinner, and entertainment.
3. When is the best time to go on a desert safari in Dubai?
The best months are from November to March when temperatures are milder. Still, during summer (May–September), evening safaris are often more comfortable because the heat is less intense in the late afternoon and evening.

