Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. At Lahbab, the sand turns a deep red-orange, the dunes are high and steep, and at sunset the whole place glows. That's why a desert safari Lahbab trip is the one we recommend first.
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.
People come here mainly for the Lahbab red dunes. Your photos will look great without a single filter, especially in the hour before sunset. If you've been searching for a red dunes desert safari Dubai trip, this is it.
Some operators use flatter sand closer to Dubai. 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
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 read more 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
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. The price is AED 65 for adults and AED 55 for kids.
Quad Bike Lahbab
If you want to drive on the dunes yourself, go for the Premium Safari with Quad Bike. It's the full evening trip plus a 20-minute quad ride, VIP seating and a premium BBQ. Adults pay AED 139, kids pay AED 110, and it runs for around 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
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.
Private and Own Car Options
Want the car to yourselves? Our private desert safari Lahbab trip is AED 649 per 4x4, and fits up to six people. 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.
What Happens on the Dunes
Dune bashing is when an experienced driver takes the 4x4 up and down the dunes at steep angles. Because the Lahbab dunes are tall, the ride here feels more exciting than in flatter deserts. 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.
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 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. 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.
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.
Good to Know Before You Go
• No prepayment is needed, you pay on the day
• Free cancellation 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
Common Questions
Do I pay extra for pickup?
No, 4x4 pickup 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, children pay less, and under-threes go free.
Is there vegetarian food?
Yes, the BBQ always includes vegetarian dishes.
What if I need to cancel?
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.
Is it possible to add a quad bike at the camp?
Yes. A 30-minute quad bike costs AED 120 per bike, but it's best to tell us when you book so we can keep one ready.
Is Lahbab Right for You?
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, while groups of friends come for the quad bikes. Photographers love the colour of the sand, especially in the late afternoon.
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. Send a WhatsApp or call +971 56 127 7925, or book your desert safari Lahbab trip at desertsafarilahbab.com.
