Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. Out at Lahbab, the dunes are a deep red-orange colour, the dunes are high and steep, and the colours at sunset are something else. That's why a desert safari Lahbab trip is the one we recommend first.
Here's everything you need to know: where it is, what's included and how much you'll pay.
How Far Is Lahbab from Dubai?
Lahbab desert Dubai is just off the Dubai to Hatta road, about 45 to 60 minutes' drive from the city. Getting there is easy, because we include free 4x4 pickup from hotels in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman. Our Lahbab desert camp is where you'll have dinner and watch the shows.
The Lahbab red dunes are the main reason people come out this way. Your photos will look great without a single filter, especially in the hour before sunset. If you've been searching for a red dunes desert safari Dubai trip, this is it.
Some safari companies use flatter desert nearer the city. 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.
Evening Desert Safari Lahbab
The evening desert safari Lahbab trip is what most people book. Pickup is between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM, and the trip lasts around six hours. First comes dune bashing, then a sunset stop on top of a high dune. 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.
Morning Desert Safari Lahbab
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. It includes dune bashing, sandboarding and a short camel ride. The price is AED 65 for adults and AED 55 for kids.
Add Some Speed
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. Adults pay AED 139, kids pay AED 110, and it runs for around six and a half hours.
Already booked a standard trip? You can add quad bike Lahbab time at the camp at AED 120 per bike for half an hour. Other add-ons include a dune buggy at AED 299 for 30 minutes, a 20-minute camel trek at AED 45 and a photo package at AED 79 per group.
Sleeping Under the Stars
Waking up in the desert is something else. The overnight desert safari Lahbab trip includes everything from the evening safari, then adds a campfire, a night at camp, a sunrise walk and breakfast. It lasts about 17 hours and costs AED 189 for adults and AED 150 for kids.
Private and Own Car Options
Prefer not to share? A private desert safari Lahbab trip costs 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 drive to the camp and join the activities, shows, BBQ and unlimited drinks.
What Happens on the Dunes
Dune bashing means riding in a 4x4 while a skilled driver takes it up, over and down the dunes. At Lahbab, the dunes are high, so the ride feels bigger than in flatter areas. Expect a bumpy ride and a lot of laughing, but you're belted in the whole way.
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.
How to here Get the Best Photos
Charge your phone fully before the trip. Keep the sun behind you to make the red sand really stand out. 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 days are warm but nights are pleasant. In summer, stick to the evening trip, because it cools down after sunset. The red dunes look their best in the last hour before sunset. Weekends get busy, so book a few days ahead.
A Few Practical Tips
• 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
Common Questions
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, the BBQ always includes vegetarian dishes.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your pickup time.
How far is the camp from my hotel?
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. A 30-minute quad bike costs AED 120 per bike, though it helps to mention it when you book.
Who Will Enjoy It Most?
First-time visitors who want classic desert views will love Lahbab. 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. Photographers love the colour of the sand, especially in the late afternoon.
Book Your Lahbab Desert Safari
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 visit desertsafarilahbab.com to book your desert safari Lahbab trip.
