Ask anyone who has done a few safaris in Dubai, and they'll tell you the sand isn't the same everywhere. At Lahbab, the sand turns a deep red-orange, the dunes are high and steep, and the colours at sunset are something else. That's why we always suggest a desert safari Lahbab trip for first-timers.
Here's everything you need to know: where it is, what's included and how much you'll pay.
Where Is the Lahbab Desert?
The Lahbab desert Dubai area sits off the Dubai to Hatta road, around 45 minutes to an hour from the city. Getting there is easy, as we offer free 4x4 pickup from hotels in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman. Our Lahbab desert camp is where you'll have dinner and watch the shows.
People come here mainly for the Lahbab red dunes. Your photos will look great without a single filter, especially in the hour before sunset. If you want a proper red dunes desert safari Dubai experience, this is the place.
Some operators use flatter sand closer to Dubai. It saves a bit of driving time, but the dunes are lower and the colour is paler. We think the short extra drive to Lahbab is worth it, because the scenery is in a different league.
Our Most Popular Package
Most guests book the evening desert safari Lahbab trip. We pick you up between 2:30 and 3:30 PM, and the whole trip takes about six hours. You start with dune bashing, then stop on a high dune for sunset. After that, you head to camp for a Tanoura show, a fire show and a BBQ dinner.
Adults pay AED 75, and children pay AED 60. Children under three go free.
For Early Birds
Not a night person? The morning desert safari Lahbab trip is shorter, at about four hours. We collect you between 7:30 AM and 8:30 AM. You get dune bashing, sandboarding and a short camel ride. The price is AED 65 for adults and AED 55 for kids.
Premium Safari with Quad Bike
For a bit more adventure, the Premium Safari with Quad Bike is a great pick. You get the evening safari, a 20-minute quad ride, VIP seats and a better BBQ. It costs AED 139 for adults and AED 110 for kids, and lasts about six and a half hours.
You can also add quad bike Lahbab time to any trip for AED 120 per bike for 30 minutes. You can also add a 30-minute dune buggy for AED 299, a 20-minute camel trek for AED 45 or a photo package for AED 79 per group.
Overnight Desert Safari Lahbab
Waking up in the desert is something else. The overnight desert safari Lahbab trip includes everything from the evening safari, plus a campfire, a night in the camp, a sunrise walk and breakfast. The whole thing takes around 17 hours, at AED 189 for adults and AED 150 for children.
Private Trips
Prefer not to share? Our private desert safari Lahbab trip is AED 649 per 4x4, and fits up to six people. You get your own driver and Land Cruiser, and the timing is flexible.
If you have your own 4x4, the Own Car Desert Safari is just AED 40 per person. You meet us at camp and enjoy the shows, the BBQ and unlimited drinks.
Dune Bashing at Lahbab
Dune bashing is when an experienced driver takes the 4x4 up and down the dunes at steep angles. Because the Lahbab dunes are tall, the ride here feels more exciting than in flatter deserts. You'll bounce around and probably scream a little, but you're strapped in the whole time.
Pregnant guests, people with back problems and parents with babies should let us know when booking, and we'll suggest the best option for you.
Photo Tips for the Red Dunes
Make sure your phone is charged before the sunset stop. Shoot with the sun behind you to bring out the red colour of the sand. For silhouettes, stand on top of a dune and face the sun. For professional shots, add the AED 79 photo package for your group. The best light doesn't last long, so have your camera ready as soon as the driver stops. And don't forget to put the phone down for a minute and just enjoy it.
When to Go
October to April is the best time to go, when the days are warm and the evenings are cool. In summer, stick to the evening trip, because it cools down after sunset. The light is best in the last hour before sunset, when the red dunes look brightest. Weekends get busy, so book a few days ahead.
Before You Book
• No prepayment is needed, you pay on the day
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup
• Vegetarian food is available at dinner
• Bring sunglasses and wear something light
• In December and January, bring a light jacket for the evening
Questions People Ask
Is pickup really free?
Yes. Pickup by 4x4 is free from hotels in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman.
Do I need to pay in advance?
You pay on the day of the trip, with no prepayment.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. Kids have their own lower prices, and children under three go free.
Do you have veg options?
Yes, there are vegetarian dishes at every BBQ.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your pickup time.
How long Lahbab Red Dunes is the drive to the desert?
It takes about 45 minutes to an hour from most hotels in Dubai. The time passes quickly, and the driver is happy to answer questions on the way.
Is it possible to add a quad bike at the camp?
Yes, you can add a quad bike for AED 120 per bike for 30 minutes, but it's best to tell us when you book so we can keep one ready.
Is Lahbab Right for You?
Lahbab is a great fit for first-time visitors who want the classic desert scenery. Families like it because kids pay less and the camp has plenty to watch. Couples come for the sunset, while groups of friends come for the quad bikes. Anyone into photography will love the red sand in the late afternoon light.
How to Book
A Lahbab desert safari is the easiest way to see the best dunes near Dubai. Our team is available every day from 7 AM to 11 PM. Call or WhatsApp us on +971 56 127 7925, or book your desert safari Lahbab trip at desertsafarilahbab.com.
