Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. Out at Lahbab, the dunes are a deep red-orange colour, they're taller than get more info in many other areas, and at sunset the whole place glows. 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.
Getting to Lahbab
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 just before the sun goes down. 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.
The Evening Trip
Most guests book the evening desert safari Lahbab trip. 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. Then it's off to the camp for a Tanoura show, a fire show and BBQ dinner.
Adults pay AED 75, and children pay AED 60. Kids under three don't pay at all.
The Morning Trip
Not a night person? The morning desert safari Lahbab trip is shorter, at about four hours. Pickup is between 7:30 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.
Add Some Speed
For a bit more adventure, the Premium Safari with Quad Bike is a great pick. It's the full evening trip plus a 20-minute quad ride, VIP seating and a premium BBQ. It costs AED 139 for adults and AED 110 for kids, and lasts about 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. 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.
Sleeping Under the Stars
There's something special about waking up in the desert. 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. It lasts about 17 hours and costs AED 189 for adults and AED 150 for kids.
Your Own Car, Your Own Pace
Want the car to yourselves? Our private desert safari Lahbab trip is AED 649 per 4x4, for up to six guests. 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.
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.
If you're pregnant, have back problems or are travelling with a baby, tell us when you book, and we'll help you pick the right trip.
Tips for Great Photos
Charge your phone fully before the trip. Shoot with the sun behind you to bring out the red colour of the sand. For silhouette shots, face the sun from the top of a dune. For professional shots, add the AED 79 photo package for your group. Golden hour is short, so be ready the moment the car stops on the dune. Then put the phone away for a moment and simply take it all in.
Which Season Is Best?
The best months are October to April, when days are warm but nights are pleasant. Summer trips still run, but the evening safari is the better choice then. The red dunes look their best in the last hour before sunset. Weekends get busy, so book a few days ahead.
Good to Know Before You Go
• No prepayment is needed, you pay on the day
• You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before pickup
• Vegetarian food is available at dinner
• Bring sunglasses and wear something light
• A jacket helps in winter, as the desert gets cool at night
FAQs About Lahbab
Do I pay extra for pickup?
Yes. Pickup by 4x4 is free from hotels in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman.
Do I need to pay in advance?
No prepayment is needed. You pay on the day.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes, children pay less, and under-threes 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?
From most Dubai hotels, it's around 45 to 60 minutes. The time passes quickly, and the driver is happy to answer questions on the way.
Can I add a quad bike on the day?
Yes. A 30-minute quad bike costs AED 120 per bike, though it helps to mention it when you book.
Who Is This Trip For?
First-time visitors who want classic desert views will love Lahbab. Families enjoy it too, with lower prices for kids and lots to see at camp. Couples come for the sunset, and groups of friends come for the quad bikes and buggies. Anyone into photography will love the red sand in the late afternoon light.
Book Your Lahbab Desert Safari
For the best dunes near Dubai, a Lahbab desert safari is hard to beat. We're open 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.
