Planning your Desert Safari Dubai but wondering how much time each activity takes? You’re not alone. Many tourists often ask: “How long is dune bashing? When do we eat dinner? How late does the safari finish?”
To help you plan your trip better, here’s a detailed time breakdown of Desert Safari Dubai activities so you’ll know exactly what to expect from pickup to drop-off.
1. Hotel Pickup & Drive to the Desert – 45 to 60 Minutes
Your journey begins when the safari operator picks you up from your hotel in a 4×4 vehicle (Land Cruiser or Nissan Patrol). The drive to the Lahbab Red Dunes or Al Awir Desert takes around 45–60 minutes. Often, there’s a short stop at a rest area for refreshments or optional quad biking before entering the desert.
2. Dune Bashing – 20 to 30 Minutes
This is the heart-pounding highlight of the safari! The twists, slides, and steep drops make it feel like a roller coaster on sand.
3. Sunset Photography Stop – 15 to 20 Minutes
After dune bashing, the car stops at a scenic point where you can capture the mesmerizing sunset. This is the perfect time for group photos, couple shots, or even solo Instagram-worthy clicks with the golden desert backdrop.
4. Camel Ride, Sandboarding & Quad Biking – 15 to 30 Minutes
Once the thrill is over, you can try a short camel ride, glide down the dunes with sandboarding, or hop on a quad bike for an extra adrenaline rush. These activities usually take 15–30 minutes depending on your preference.
5. Desert Camp Activities – 2.5 to 3 Hours
Arriving at the traditional Bedouin-style camp is like stepping into Arabian culture. Here you can enjoy:
- Henna painting
- Traditional costume photography
- Falcon photos
- Shisha smoking
- Relaxing in Majlis seating
6. Live Entertainment Shows – 60 to 90 Minutes
The stage lights up with mesmerizing performances, including:
- Tanoura dance (whirling dervish)
- Belly dance or LED light shows
- Fire show
These shows are spread across the evening to keep guests entertained between dining.
7. BBQ Dinner Buffet – 45 to 60 Minutes
While the shows continue, an international buffet dinner is served. Expect a mix of Arabic, Asian, and Continental dishes with unlimited BBQ options. Vegetarians will also find plenty of choices.
8. Stargazing & Relaxation – 20 to 30 Minutes
After dinner and entertainment, you can sit back under the Arabian night sky. Many guests enjoy stargazing with a cup of tea or Arabic coffee before departure.
9. Drive Back to Hotel – 45 to 60 Minutes
Most evening safaris end around 9:30 PM – 10:00 PM.
Total Duration of Desert Safari Dubai
- Evening Safari: 6 to 7 hours
- Morning Safari: 3 to 4 hours (shorter, focused on dune bashing + camel riding)
- Overnight Safari: 10 to 12 hours (includes stargazing, overnight stay, and sunrise breakfast)
FAQs About Desert Safari Dubai Timings
-
How long is dune bashing in Dubai?
Dune bashing usually lasts 20–30 minutes depending on the package.
What time does the evening desert safari start?
Pickups generally start around 2:30 PM–3:00 PM, with the camp activities beginning after sunset.
When does the desert safari end?
Evening safaris usually finish around 9:30 PM–10:00 PM.
Is the overnight desert safari worth it?
Yes! Overnight safaris offer stargazing, bonfire, overnight camping in tents, and breakfast at sunrise – a unique experience for nature lovers. Many tour operators also include special Desert Safari Dubai deals with the overnight package.
Can I customize my desert safari timing?
Private safaris allow more flexibility, so you can start and finish as per your preference.
Final Thoughts
The Desert Safari Dubai is more than just dune bashing – it’s a 6-7 hour journey through culture, adventure, and Arabian hospitality. From thrilling sand rides to BBQ dinners and live shows, every minute is packed with excitement.
If you’re planning your trip, use this time breakdown as a guide to make the most out of your desert adventure. 🌵✨