Planning a desert safari in Dubai but not sure whether to choose morning or evening? The timing not only changes the experience — it also significantly affects the price.
In this article, we break down the key price differences, inclusions, and best options depending on your schedule and budget.
1. Morning Desert Safari: Quick, Active, and Budget-Friendly
Morning safaris typically run from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, making them ideal for early risers, short-stay tourists, or those who prefer cooler desert temperatures.
????️ Price Range: AED 120 – 250 per person
✔️ What’s Included:
4x4 dune bashing (20–40 minutes)
Sandboarding
Camel ride (short session)
Optional: Quad biking or dune buggy (extra charge)
Refreshments (water/juice)
✅ No dinner, no camp, no shows — making it a faster, more adrenaline-focused experience.
???? Ideal For:
Thrill-seekers
Tourists with tight schedules
Travelers wanting to avoid the heat and crowds
2. Evening Desert Safari: Full Experience with Dinner & Shows
Evening safaris are the most popular, running from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, offering a complete package of desert adventure, dinner, and entertainment.
????️ Price Range: AED 150 – 450 per person
✔️ What’s Included:
Hotel pickup/drop-off
Dune bashing (20–30 minutes)
Camel rides
Sandboarding
Sunset views in the desert
Desert camp access
Buffet BBQ dinner (veg & non-veg options)
Live shows: belly dance, Tanoura, fire show
Tea, soft drinks, dates, and more
✅ Optional Upgrades: VIP seating, private transport, henna tattoos, shisha, quad bikes.
???? Ideal For:
Families and couples
First-time visitors to Dubai
Travelers wanting the full Arabian experience
3. Price Comparison Table (2025 Averages)
| Feature | Morning Safari | Evening Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Price (per person) | AED 120 – 250 | AED 150 – 450 |
| Duration | 3–4 hours | 5–6 hours |
| Meals | None | BBQ Dinner + Drinks |
| Entertainment | No | Yes (3 shows) |
| Camel Ride | Yes (short) | Yes (included) |
| Sunset Views | ❌ | ✅ |
| Dune Bashing | ✅ | ✅ |
| Sandboarding | ✅ | ✅ |
| Quad Biking (optional) | Available | Available |
4. Which One Should You Choose?
???? Choose Morning Safari if you:
Are on a tight schedule
Prefer cooler weather
Want an adrenaline-filled start to your day
Don’t need dinner or shows
???? Choose Evening Safari if you:
Want a full Arabian experience
Enjoy dinner under the stars
Are traveling with family or a group
Love cultural shows and entertainment
5. Money-Saving Tips
Group bookings often get lower per-person rates
Morning safaris are cheaper overall
Combo deals (safari + dhow cruise or Burj Khalifa) offer better value
Book directly with the tour operator to avoid middleman fees
Final Thoughts
Both morning and evening desert safaris offer unique experiences at different price points. The morning tour is more budget-friendly and fast-paced, while the evening safari delivers a complete cultural and culinary experience for a slightly higher price.
???? Choose based on your preferences — and compare prices before booking!