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 we always suggest a desert safari Lahbab trip for first-timers.
This guide explains where Lahbab is, what each package includes and how much it costs.
Getting to Lahbab
Lahbab desert Dubai is just 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. Dinner and the shows happen at our Lahbab desert camp.
The Lahbab red dunes are the main reason people come out this way. Photos taken here look amazing without any 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's quicker to reach, but the dunes are smaller and the sand is paler. For us, the extra few minutes on the road are 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. 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. Kids under three don't pay at all.
For Early Birds
If evenings don't work for you, try the morning desert safari Lahbab trip, which lasts 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.
Quad Bike Lahbab
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.
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 and Own Car Options
Prefer not to share? A private desert safari Lahbab trip costs AED 649 per 4x4, for up to six guests. You get a private Land Cruiser and driver, with flexible timing.
Driving your own 4x4? The Own Car Desert Safari is only AED 40 per person. You meet us at camp and enjoy the shows, the BBQ and unlimited drinks.
The Fun Part: Dune Bashing
Dune bashing means riding in a 4x4 while a skilled driver takes it up, over and down the dunes. Because the Lahbab dunes are tall, the ride here feels more exciting than in flatter deserts. here 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 suggest the best option for you.
Tips for Great Photos
Make sure your phone is charged before the sunset stop. Keep the sun behind you to make the red sand really stand out. For silhouette shots, face the sun from the top of a dune. If you want proper pictures without the effort, add the photo package for AED 79 per 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.
Best Time to Visit Lahbab
October to April is the best time to go, when the days are warm and the evenings are cool. 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. Book a few days in advance for weekends.
A Few Practical Tips
• No prepayment is needed, you pay on the day
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup
• There are vegetarian options at the BBQ
• Bring sunglasses and wear something light
• A jacket helps in winter, as the desert gets cool at night
Questions People Ask
Do I pay extra for pickup?
No, 4x4 pickup 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. 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?
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.
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, though it helps to mention it when you book.
Who Will Enjoy It Most?
Lahbab is a great fit for first-time visitors who want the classic desert scenery. 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
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.
