Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. Out at Lahbab, the dunes are a deep red-orange colour, they're taller than in many other areas, and the colours at sunset are something else. That's why a desert safari Lahbab trip is the one we recommend first.
This guide explains where Lahbab is, what each package includes and how much it costs.
Where Is the Lahbab Desert?
Lahbab desert Dubai is just off the Dubai to Hatta road, about 45 to 60 minutes' drive from the city. You don't need to worry about getting there, 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 just before the sun goes down. If you want a proper red dunes desert safari Dubai experience, this is the place.
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 views are so much better.
Our Most Popular Package
The evening desert safari Lahbab trip is what most people book. We pick you up between 2:30 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.
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. You get dune bashing, sandboarding and a short camel ride. Adults pay AED 65 and kids pay AED 55.
Quad Bike Lahbab
If you want to drive on the dunes yourself, go for the Premium Safari with Quad Bike. 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.
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. Our overnight desert safari Lahbab package has everything from the evening trip, 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.
Your Own Car, Your Own Pace
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.
The Fun Part: Dune Bashing
Dune bashing means riding in a 4x4 while read more 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 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.
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 silhouettes, stand on top of a dune and face the sun. If you want proper pictures without the effort, add the photo package for AED 79 per 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.
When to Go
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 light is best in the last hour before sunset, when the red dunes look brightest. Book a few days in advance for weekends.
A Few Practical Tips
• No prepayment is needed, you pay on the day
• You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before pickup
• There are vegetarian options at the BBQ
• Wear light clothes and bring sunglasses
• In December and January, bring a light jacket for the evening
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?
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.
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.
Ready for the Red Dunes?
For the best dunes near Dubai, a Lahbab desert safari is hard to beat. 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.
