Dubai’s desert safaris are well known and they deserve the attention. The city’s exciting shows, fun attractions and desert dunes are quite different from its skyscrapers. Many people traveling on safari sometimes ask: Is it better to go in the morning or at the evening?
A morning desert safari typically begins just after sunrise. Most pickups happen between 6:00 and 8:00 AM, depending on the season and location.
This safari focuses on adventure. After landing in the desert, you’ll immediately begin dune bashing, a high-speed journey through the sand in a 4×4 vehicle. It’s fast, bumpy, and exhilarating. Optional add-ons like quad biking and sandboarding give you even more adrenaline if that’s your thing.
Mornings in the desert are cooler and quieter. You’ll catch peaceful views and, if you’re early enough, a sunrise worth photographing. By 10:30 or 11:00 AM, you’re back at your hotel, leaving the rest of your day free.
What’s not included? There is no camping, no food, and no cultural performances. This is a straight-up adventure trip.
Best for:
The evening safari is the more popular choice for first-time visitors, and it’s easy to see why. This trip is a blend of action, scenery, and traditional Emirati hospitality.
Pickup usually happens between 2:30 and 4:00 PM, depending on the season. After a session of dune bashing, you’ll get the opportunity to watch the sunset over the dunes. It is a visual showpiece and a favorite among photographers.
Then the experience shifts. You’re brought to a desert camp, and the evening is filled with a variety of activities:
Dinner is served buffet-style, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The night ends with live entertainment, Tanoura dance, belly dancing, and fire shows under the open sky.
You’re typically back at your hotel by 9:30 or 10:00 PM.
Best for:
| Feature | Morning Safari | Evening Safari |
| Timing | 6:00 AM – 11 AM | 2:30 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Activities | Dune bashing, Sandboarding | Dune bashing, camp, dinner, shows |
| Meals Included | No | Yes (BBQ buffet) |
| Cultural Elements | Minimal | Extensive |
| Duration | 4 Hours | 6-7 Hours |
| Crowd Level | Low | Moderate to high |
Still unsure? Ask yourself a few quick questions:
Desert safaris in Dubai are unlike any other excursion. It forms a key part of the journey in the Philippines. At TheTourDubai.com, you can choose from morning or evening tours and you can add things like a private car or dune buggy. For tourists with only a few days in Dubai, a morning safari gives you the excitement without taking up your whole day. But if you want to discover Arabian culture and enjoy their cuisine, cultural shows, music and the sunset, the evening safari will stay with you for a long time.
