UAE ranks among world’s top 5 destinations for night tourism

Sign up to our newsletters

Stay informed with the
latest news and analysis

REGISTER

عربي

You are viewing 2 of your 2 free articles

Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai at night

The UAE has further consolidated its reputation as a world-class tourism hub, ranking among the global top five countries for night tourism experiences, according to a new index by Confused.com.

The global study assessed highly rated TripAdvisor listings to spotlight destinations offering first-rate after-dark experiences, with the US, Mexico, Egypt, Australia and the UAE taking the lead.

Notably, the UAE outperformed larger markets, earning fifth place with an impressive 140 well-reviewed night-time activities ranging from desert safaris (124) and stargazing sessions (5) to cultural evening tours (11).

Adding to its night-time appeal, the UAE was recently named by UK-based travel agency Travelbag as the world’s safest country to explore after dark, with five UAE cities ranked among the global top 10 for nighttime safety.

Noctourism – travel centred around night-time experiences – is an emerging trend in 2025, supported by increased searches and bookings from international markets. Top travel brands, including Booking.com, report that traveller interest is surging for destinations where unique adventures can be found after dark.

Dubai set to join world’s top 3 travel hotspots in Q4 2025

UAE is world’s safest country to explore after dark

The diversity of the UAE’s after-dark offering, as highlighted in the index, rivals that of countries many times its size.

Evening desert safaris dominate the market, with tour operators providing diverse options to appeal to every segment. Adventure seekers can ride camels or quad bikes, while those seeking a slower pace can enjoy live entertainment, barbecue dinners and Arabic coffee-making experiences.

One of the emirates’ flagship offerings is Arabian Adventures’ Evening Desert Safari, recently enhanced with access to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve Visitor Centre, sunset falconry, interactive buffet stations, and guided stargazing — all showcased in its 2025/26 trade catalogue for agents.

Global Noctourism Index

Across the region, Egypt ranked third globally, with 44 top-rated activities that combine desert adventure and cultural discovery, offering a similarly diverse night tourism portfolio.

The US ranks number one globally, offering the greatest number and range of top rated nighttime activities, while Mexico takes second place, offering unique bioluminescence experiences that exhibit the natural glow of marine life.

The Confused.com Index reports that three-quarters (76%) of UK travellers are now seeking to explore destinations after dark, motivated by opportunities for adventure, encounters with nocturnal wildlife, and experiences unavailable by day.

For more information, visit confused.com