What is Al Wathba Lake Camping and where is it located?
Al Wathba Lake Camping offers an immersive overnight experience on the fringes of the desert near Dubai, combining serene lakeside views, open skies and desert terrain. The camp is set near Al Wathba Lake (Abu Dhabi), within reach of Dubai’s major hotels, providing a rare mix of sand-dune atmosphere and still-water reflection.
How much does a stay at the camp cost and what’s included?
The price for Al Wathba Lake Camping typically starts at AED 650 per person for the basic overnight package; premium options (with deluxe tent, private fire-pit or buggy/quad add-ons) go up to AED 1,200+ per person.
What’s included:
- Transfers: hotel pickup & drop-off in Dubai in a 4×4 vehicle
- One-night stay in a desert camp tent (shared or private)
- Dinner (BBQ buffet) & breakfast under the stars
- Sunset lakeside photo stop, desert walk or sand dune access
- Basic camping gear (tent, mattress, pillows, blankets)
- Bottled water, tea/coffee station
What’s excluded:
- Optional activities such as self-drive buggy or quad bike
- Airport transfers or luxury private vehicle
- Alcoholic beverages (if requested)
- Personal items or extra gear rental
What makes this experience unique compared to typical desert safaris?
The key difference is the lakeside location at Al Wathba combined with desert scenery, offering:
- Calmer ambiance: less dune-bashing, more stargazing and tranquility
- Overnight stay: deeper immersion into desert at night, unlike the usual 4-6 hour safari
- Morning sunrise experience over the lake and dunes
- Greater photo opportunities: reflective water, desert flora/fauna, wide sky
What are the age, safety and gear guidelines?
Safety is paramount. The camp operators require:
- Minimum age: 5 years for children staying overnight; under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- All guests must attend a short safety briefing on arrival (fire-pit usage, wildlife caution, tent safety)
- Closed-toe shoes recommended for walking near sands and lake boundary
- Use of headlamps/flashlights at night advised
- Avoid venturing far without guide after sunset — night terrain may be uneven
When is the best time to go?
The optimal months are between October–March, when desert nights are cool (≈ 10-20 °C) and skies clear. (dxbdesertsafaris.com) Early morning (pre-dawn) and late evening sessions are best for photography and margin of comfort. Summer stays are possible but require early or very late timing to avoid extreme heat.
What should you pack or wear?
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirt (for evening cool) and a hoodie/jacket for night
- Closed-toe walking shoes or trainers
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat (for daytime desert walk)
- Swimwear (if planned near lake edge) and quick-dry towel
- Personal flashlight or headlamp
- Mobile power-bank (camp power is limited)
How does this overnight stay compare to a typical desert safari?
Comparison Table
| Feature | Overnight Lake Camping | Standard Evening Desert Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | ~14–16 hours (arrival ~16:00, depart ~08:00) | ~5–7 hours (usually 15:00–21:00) (dxbdesertsafaris.com) |
| Focus | Tranquility, nature, stargazing, minimal drive | Thrill, dune bashing, entertainment, dinner |
| Location | Lakeside with desert edge | Typically deep desert dunes |
| Included adventure activities | Light walks, sunset stay, optional extras | Dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding |
| Target audience | Nature-lovers, couples, photographers | Families, thrill-seekers, groups |
How to book and what to expect on arrival?
Upon booking via DXB Desert Safaris (link to main site), you will receive pickup time (typically ~15:00 from Dubai hotel).
On arrival:
- Welcome drink and dates at the camp
- Site orientation and safety briefing
- Sunset lakeside photo stop
- BBQ dinner by fire-pit under stars
- Overnight tent stay with basic amenities
- Pre-departure breakfast and return transfer
📞 Book your overnight lake-camping experience today with certified guides and premium safety standards at dxbdesertsafaris.com. Call now: +971 55 294 0586.
FAQs
Q: Can we add a dune buggy or quad bike to the overnight stay?
A: Yes — optional self-drive or guided buggy/quad sessions can be added at extra cost (typically AED 400-800) depending on duration and vehicle used (eg. Polaris or Can‑Am models).
Q: Is the lake safe for swimming?
A: The lake edge is scenic but not fully supervised; swimming is at your own risk and depends on camp rules. Closed-toe shoes for wet sand are advisable.
Q: What if the weather is windy or there’s a sandstorm?
A: The operator monitors weather; in case of unsafe conditions you may be moved to a sheltered camp zone or alternative experience provided.
Q: Are families with young children allowed?
A: Yes — children aged 5+ are typically permitted; toddlers must share with adults and parents must supervise evening/tent time.
Q: How far is the camp from Dubai?
A: It takes approximately 45–60 minutes from central Dubai (hotel pickup) depending on traffic and location.
Name: Desert Safari Dubai
Address: 49b Al Athar Street – Jumeirah – Jumeirah Beach – Dubai
Phone: 0552940586
Website: https://dxbdesertsafaris.com
Google Maps: https://share.google/vV3nMPBc52gZbAJNo
[End of Article]