Desert safaris run all year round in Dubai, but the experience changes a lot with the season and the time of day. This guide explains the best time for a desert safari in Dubai, month by month, plus whether to go in the morning or evening, so you can plan the perfect trip.
The short answer
The best months for a desert safari in Dubai are November to March, when days are warm rather than hot and evenings at the desert camp are pleasant. The best time of day for most visitors is the late afternoon, on an evening desert safari that catches the sunset over the dunes. In the hottest months, a sunrise morning safari is the coolest option.
Best time for desert safari Dubai: month by month
| Months | Typical daytime weather | Desert safari verdict |
|---|---|---|
| November – February | Warm, sunny days in the mid to high 20s °C; cool evenings | Best season. Ideal for evening safaris; bring a light jacket for the camp. |
| March | Warm days, comfortable evenings | Excellent for every type of safari. |
| April – May | Getting hot, often in the mid to high 30s °C | Good, especially late afternoon and early morning departures. |
| June – September | Very hot, often 40 °C or more | Still running daily. Choose a sunrise morning safari or an evening safari, cover up and stay hydrated. |
| October | Hot days that start to cool down | Good, and getting better as the month goes on. |
Winter (November to March): peak season
This is when most visitors come to Dubai, and for good reason. The sand is comfortable to walk on, sandboarding and camel rides are pleasant, and dinner under the stars at the camp is at its best. Because it is the busiest season, booking a day or two ahead is a good idea. Evenings in the desert can feel cool, so bring a layer. Our guide to what to wear on a desert safari covers this in detail.
Summer (June to September): go early or late
Summer is very hot, but desert safaris still run every day, and the dunes are quieter. Plan around the heat:
- Book a sunrise morning safari with a 5:00 – 5:30 AM pickup, when the desert is at its coolest.
- Or choose an evening safari, which spends the hottest hours in an air-conditioned 4×4 and reaches the dunes as the sun goes down.
- Wear light, breathable clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of water. Soft drinks and water are included on all our tours.
- Consider a private desert safari so you can travel at your own pace.
Best time of day for a desert safari
Evening: best for most visitors
Our evening safari picks you up at 3:00 – 3:30 PM, so you dune bash in the late afternoon light and stop on the high dunes for sunset, which ranges from about 5:30 PM in winter to about 7:10 PM in summer. The night continues at the camp with a camel ride, live shows and a BBQ dinner, and you are back around 9:30 – 9:45 PM.
Morning: best for photos and cooler air
The sunrise morning safari (pickup 5:00 – 5:30 AM) gives you soft golden light, cooler temperatures and fewer people. A standard morning departure (8:00 – 8:30 AM) suits families who want a later start. Read our full morning vs evening desert safari comparison to decide.
Visiting during Ramadan?
Desert safaris continue during Ramadan, but desert camps commonly adjust their entertainment, and live dance shows are often paused during the holy month. If you are travelling during Ramadan, message us before booking and we will confirm exactly what is included on your date.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month for a desert safari in Dubai?
November to March is the best period, with warm days and pleasant evenings. December to February is the most comfortable for evening safaris with dinner at the camp.
Can you do a desert safari in summer?
Yes. Safaris run every day in summer. Choose a sunrise morning safari or an evening safari to avoid the hottest part of the day, and drink plenty of water.
What time does the evening desert safari start?
With Pink Rock Tourism, hotel pickup for the evening desert safari is around 3:00 – 3:30 PM, with drop-off around 9:30 – 9:45 PM.
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