Few experiences change your sense of the Emirates like a night in the desert. Overnight stays at a Bedouin-style camp near Ras Al Khaimah give you the evening dinner and entertainment of a standard safari, then let you stay when everyone else goes home. After dinner the camp quietens, the lights dim and the stars appear in numbers you do not see from the city. You sleep in a tent, with options that range from shared family tents to couple tents and more comfortable premium styles depending on the product you choose. In the morning you wake to a pink sky over the dunes, and a light breakfast follows before the transfer back to your hotel. It is an unusual way to see the landscape at its calmest, with cool air at night in the cooler months and enough comfort to make it manageable for people who do not usually camp. Families like the sense of adventure, couples like the privacy and photographers love the sunrise light. The trade-off is simplicity: facilities are basic compared with a resort, so it suits travellers who see that as part of the appeal rather than a problem.
How it works
You are picked up in the afternoon, driven to the camp and checked in to your tent. Dinner and entertainment follow, and breakfast is served in the morning before the return transfer. There are different tent types, from couple tents to family tents and premium tents, and each has its own price and bedding. Each option is described in its own details, so choose the one that matches your group. Check which activities, such as camel rides or sandboarding, are included.
What to expect
Nights in winter can be cold, so bring warm clothes. Bedding is provided, but you may want an extra layer. Toilets and washing facilities are shared and simple. Phones may have a weak signal, which is part of the point. Bring a torch, sunscreen, a hat and a small bag. Do not expect hotel-level comfort, and do not expect a full night of silence if there are other groups, though the camp is normally calm after the entertainment ends.
Making the most of it
Choose a date in the cooler months and a moonless night for the best stars. Arrive early to enjoy the dunes while it is light. If you travel with children, check the age rules, and if you are sensitive to noise, ask about camp size. For a bigger adventure, add a morning activity such as sandboarding or a balloon flight and book your onward travel with spare time.
Good to know
Sound carries in the desert, and early risers, camels and wind can all be part of the morning. A good pair of earplugs and an eye mask make sleeping easier. Charge your phone before you go, because charging points may be limited, and pack a small power bank.
Check in advance whether the price covers breakfast and whether you can use the camp's facilities the next morning before the transfer. Finally, tell the operator about any allergies or dietary needs when you book, since the camp kitchen is a long way from the nearest shop.
What to expect
The experience
An overnight stay in a tent at a Bedouin-style desert camp, with dinner, entertainment, stargazing, breakfast and hotel transfers.
Best time
October to April; choose a moonless night for the best stars.
How long
Overnight, about 18 hours from pickup to return.
Tips
Bring warm layers, a torch and sunscreen, and expect simple shared facilities.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want an unusual night under the stars.
- Families
- A memorable adventure; check age rules and tent options for children.
- Couples
- Couple tents offer privacy and a quiet sunrise.
- Pair with
- A sunrise balloon flight the following morning or a beach day to recover.
- Time needed
- One night.
Good questions
What is included in an overnight stay?+
Usually transfers, dinner, entertainment, a tent, bedding and breakfast. Check the product details for activities.
Is it cold at night?+
In winter, yes. Bring warm clothing even if the day was hot.
Are there toilets?+
Yes, basic shared facilities are normally provided at the camp.
Is it suitable for children?+
Many families go. Check the age policy and tent type when you book.
Which tent should I choose?+
Couple tents suit two adults, family tents suit larger groups, and premium tents add comfort. Match the type to your party.