Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. 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 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.
Getting to Lahbab
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. 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 want a proper red dunes desert safari Dubai experience, this is the place.
Some operators use flatter sand closer to Dubai. 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 views are so much better.
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. You start with dune bashing, then stop on a high dune for sunset. 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.
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.
Premium Safari with Quad Bike
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 for AED 120 per bike for 30 minutes. 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
There's something special about waking up in the desert. 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. 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? Our private desert safari Lahbab trip is AED 649 per 4x4, for up to six guests. You get a private Land Cruiser and driver, with flexible timing.
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. At Lahbab, the dunes are high, so the ride feels bigger than in flatter areas. You'll bounce around and probably scream a little, but you're strapped in the whole time.
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.
Photo Tips for the Red Dunes
Charge your phone fully before the trip. 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. Golden hour is short, so be ready the moment the car stops on the dune. 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. Weekends get busy, so book a few days ahead.
Before You Book
• You don't pay anything until the day of the trip
• 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
• A jacket helps in winter, as the desert gets cool at night
Questions People Ask
Is pickup really free?
Yes. Pickup by 4x4 is free from hotels in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman.
When do I pay?
You pay on the day of the trip, with no prepayment.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children pay less, and under-threes go free.
Is there vegetarian food?
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 is the drive to the desert?
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. 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. 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 Lahbab Red 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.
