If you are in Abu Dhabi, have you ever had this question come to your mind? While planning a desert safari?
Whether to book a morning or an evening desert safari in Abu Dhabi?
It’s a common question for every traveler and resident alike. Both experiences give you a vibrant experience – the golden dunes, thrilling dune bashing, and unforgettable moments – yet they feel completely different.
If you are a morning person, the morning safari will give you the cool desert air and bright sunrise photography. But if you are drawn to sunsets, camp shows, and a magical BBQ dinner under the stars, you should choose the evening safari.
In this blog, let’s get to know both options so you can choose what truly fits your time, comfort, and adventure style.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Safari Experience
Desert safari is a thrilling tour that makes visitors experience the desert landscapes, thrilling other activities, and more.
Do you think that a desert safari in Abu Dhabi is just a drive through sand dunes?
But no, it’s actually an adventure that brings thrill, culture and nature together. You can enjoy dune bashing at high speed, glide down slopes on a sandboard, ride a camel, dress in Arabic attire, and taste local dishes at a desert camp.
Every safari gives a slightly different experience. The morning safari allows you to witness the raw beauty of the desert, while the evening safari turns into a cultural festival with entertainment, dinner and a breathtaking sunset.
According to WeatherSpark, average daytime temperatures in Abu Dhabi reach around 24°C in January and up to 44°C in July, which means timing your safari can really affect your comfort level.
Morning Desert Safari
A morning safari begins just after sunrise. You’ll be picked up around 6:00 – 6:30 AM, and the trip finishes before noon. The cooler air, quiet dunes and perfect lighting for capturing pictures.
You’ll start with a thrilling 4×4 dune bashing session, where skilled drivers glide over the golden dunes. Then comes sandboarding, camel rides, and quick stops for photos in the glowing morning sun. Some operators also offer optional quad bike rides for adrenaline lovers.
The best part? You get to enjoy the open desert before it gets crowded. The light winds and calmness give you a real “Arabian desert” vibe.
However, since there’s no BBQ dinner or live shows, this safari is shorter and focuses more on the ride itself. It’s ideal for travelers with tight schedules, families with kids, or photographers chasing sunrise shots.
But remember, during summer months (June – August), temperatures climb quickly after 9 AM, so a morning safari is better in winter or early spring when the desert is pleasantly cool.
And in the morning, you can visit different places on the desert safari.
Evening Desert Safari
If you want a complete desert safari, the evening safari is best for you. Most tours start around 3:00 PM and return by 9:00 PM – giving you half a day of fun and relaxation.
In the evening, the thrill begins with dune bashing and photo stops just before sunset. As the sun sets, the sky turns orange and gold – one of the most Instagram-worthy views in the UAE.
After the ride, you can head to a Bedouin-style camp for cultural entertainment, henna painting, and camel rides.
The real magic begins once evening falls – Tanoura dance, fire shows, belly dancing, and an open BBQ dinner filled with grilled meat, Arabic bread, and desserts.
In hot months, evenings are more comfortable with temperatures dropping significantly after sunset. It’s ideal for couples, families, and groups who want both adventure and a touch of local culture in one trip. The average shared evening safari costs around AED 200 per person, depending on whether you choose a regular, VIP, or private option.
After the safari, you’ll know it’s an experience that brings excitement with Arabian hospitality.
Morning vs. Evening Safari – How to Choose?
Here is what to get if you choose:
| Morning Safari | Evening Safari |
| Cooler, quieter dunes (in winter) | Sunset views and cultural shows |
| Adventure-focused rides | BBQ dinner and entertainment |
| Sunrise photography | Cooler air during summer months |
| Shorter trip duration | A social, festive atmosphere |
| Fewer crowd and quick pick-up times | A complete “Arabian night” experience |
Think of it this way – the morning safari is all about thrill or excitement, while the evening safari adds a layer of tradition, flavor, and fun.
Weather and Seasonal Tips
Abu Dhabi’s desert is something different – unpredictable – mornings can be calm and chill in winter, while afternoons feel warm and windy.
From November to March, both morning and evening safaris are comfortable. At that time the temperatures will be between 23°C and 28°C.
And from May to September, evenings are better, as the heat can reach up to 44°C during the day.
If you are traveling in October or April, you can safely pick either one. Just remember to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothes.
Any further doubts? You can see the best time to visit.
Health, Safety, and Family Advice
Desert safaris are generally safe, but a few precautions make the experience better:
- If you’re pregnant or have back issues, skip dune bashing and choose a gentler camp-only experience.
- Always wear seat belts during the ride.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat – even mornings can be bright.
- For children and older travelers, evening safaris are often more relaxed.
A good operator will explain everything clearly before the ride, assuring everyone enjoys the trip safely. Beyond that, we’ll even suggest to you what to wear on a desert safari.
Who Should Pick Which Safari?
Families with Kids: Evening safaris are perfect because of the shorter drives and entertaining shows.
- Adventure Seekers: Morning safaris offer high-energy dune drives without crowds.
- Couples or Honeymooners: Evening safaris offer the romance of sunsets and starry skies.
- Photographers: Both are worth it – morning for golden light, evening for silhouettes.
- Corporate Groups: Private evening safaris create great bonding experiences.
Cost, Inclusions, and Value for Money
The evening safari usually includes more – BBQ dinner, shows, and camp activities – so it offers better overall value for tourists.
Meanwhile, morning safaris are cheaper, ranging from AED 100 to 150, since they exclude meals and entertainment.
There are VIP and private car options (for up to 7 people) that can go up to AED 900. But they offer privacy, flexibility, and personalized service. If you’re traveling with friends or family, that’s a cost-effective choice.
Important Tips to Remember
Don’t underestimate the summer heat. The desert can reach 41 – 44°C in peak months. Here are some tips that can help you in your desert safari in Abu Dhabi.
- Always bring water
- Avoid heavy meals before dune bashing
- Choose evening timings in hotter seasons
If you’re visiting in December or January, mornings are the best- cool, calm, and filled with golden light. But during July or August, opt for evenings for comfort and safety.
Seeking to do more than a safari? See our things to do in Abu Dhabi.
Apart from healthy side tips, here are the others:
Expert Tips for Travelers
If you are planning your Abu Dhabi desert safari trip before December 2025, here are some tips and best practices we recommend:
- Book 2 – 3 days in advance, especially in winter.
- Choose licensed operators (check DCT Abu Dhabi verification).
- Ask for private tours if you prefer quieter experiences.
- Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens for desert shots.
- Avoid cheapest offers that compromise on safety or insurance.
Combine morning and evening for the complete UAE desert experience, or explore more – things to do in Abu Dhabi before or after your safari.
Suggested Reading: What NOT to Pack for Your Abu Dhabi Desert Safari
Final Recommendation
Let’s conclude the topic.
If you want a complete Arabian desert experience – with sunset, BBQ, live shows, and the rhythm of drums under the stars – go for the evening desert safari.
But if you love peaceful mornings, open dunes, and a quick adventure before breakfast, the morning desert safari is unbeatable.
Still, if you need to know more about the adventure, here’s the guide to desert safari.
Whatever you choose, book with a trusted operator like Desert Safari Abu Dhabi – we offer well-planned packages, safe rides, and genuine hospitality. Reach out today and make your trip an unforgettable one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do morning and evening safari on the same day?
Yes – it’s possible to book a morning safari and an evening safari on the same day. The morning trip ends by about midday and the evening one begins in the afternoon (around 3:00 pm) so you’ll need enough rest/time between them to avoid fatigue.
Which safari is better for kids?
For families with children, the evening safari is generally better. It includes entertainment, comfortable camp time, and dinner in addition to dune activities. If the child is very young or you prefer a shorter outing, a shorter morning trip could also work.
Which time gives better photos?
Both have strong photo opportunities. Morning gives crisp light and fewer shadows (good for golden dunes and sunrise). Evening offers stunning sunset colors, silhouettes and cultural camp scenes (great for dramatic shots).
How long is each safari?
Morning safari: typically about 3-4 hours, starting early and finishing around midday.
Evening safari: typically around 5-6 hours, starting mid-afternoon (~3:00 pm) and ending by ~9:00 pm.
What to wear for a desert safari?
Wear light, comfortable clothes (cotton or breathable fabrics), closed shoes for walking on sand, a hat or scarf, sunglasses and sunscreen. If you go in the evening or in winter months, bring a light jacket for cooler night air.
Is an evening safari safe in winter?
Yes – evening safaris in winter are safe, comfortable and popular. The weather is mild, so you’ll enjoy the cooler desert air and cultural activities without the high heat risk of summer. Just wear a light layer for later hours.
