Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. At Lahbab, the sand turns a deep red-orange, they're taller than in many other areas, and the colours at sunset are something else. 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.
How Far Is Lahbab from Dubai?
The Lahbab desert Dubai area sits off the Dubai to Hatta road, around 45 minutes to an hour 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. 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 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'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.
Evening Desert Safari Lahbab
The evening desert safari Lahbab trip is what most people book. We pick you up between 2:30 and 3:30 PM, and the whole trip takes about 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.
It costs AED 75 for adults and AED 60 for kids. Kids under three don't pay at all.
For Early Birds
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. It includes dune bashing, sandboarding and a short camel ride. Adults pay AED 65 and kids pay AED 55.
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.
You can also add quad bike Lahbab time to any trip 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. Our overnight desert safari Lahbab package has everything from the evening trip, 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.
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 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.
The Fun Part: Dune Bashing
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 strapped in the whole time.
Pregnant guests, people with back problems and parents with babies should let us know when booking, and we'll help you pick the right trip.
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.
When to Go
The best months are October to April, when the days are warm and the evenings are cool. In summer, stick to the evening trip, because it cools down after sunset. The light is best in the last hour before sunset, when the red dunes look brightest. Book a few days in advance for weekends.
Good to Know Before You Go
• 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
FAQs About Lahbab
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.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes. Kids have their own lower prices, and children under three go free.
Do you have veg options?
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 website your pickup time.
How long is the drive to the desert?
From most Dubai hotels, it's around 45 to 60 minutes. Most guests enjoy the drive, and the driver can tell you about the area 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, but it's best to tell us when you book so we can keep one ready.
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
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.
