Ask anyone who has done a few safaris in Dubai, and they'll tell you the sand isn't the same everywhere. 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
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, because we include 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've been searching for a red dunes desert safari Dubai trip, this is it.
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 scenery is in a different league.
Our Most Popular Package
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. First comes dune bashing, then a sunset stop on top of a high dune. 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.
The Morning Trip
If evenings don't work for you, try the morning desert safari Lahbab trip, which lasts about four hours. Pickup is between 7:30 and 8:30 AM. It includes 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. 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 for AED 120 per bike for 30 minutes. 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
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.
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.
Driving your own 4x4? The Own Car Desert Safari is only 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 is when an experienced driver takes the 4x4 here 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 belted in the whole way.
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 silhouette shots, face the sun from the top of a dune. 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. Then put the phone away for a moment and simply take it all in.
Which Season Is Best?
October to April is the best time to go, 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. Weekends get busy, so book a few days ahead.
Good to Know Before You Go
• You don't pay anything until the day of the trip
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup
• Vegetarian food is available at dinner
• Bring sunglasses and wear something light
• A jacket helps in winter, as the desert gets cool at night
FAQs About Lahbab
Do I pay extra for pickup?
Yes. Pickup by 4x4 is free from hotels in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman.
When do I pay?
No prepayment is needed. You pay on the day.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. Kids have their own lower prices, and children under three 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, but it's best to tell us when you book so we can keep one ready.
Who Is This Trip For?
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.
How to Book
A Lahbab desert safari is the easiest way to see the best dunes near Dubai. We're open every day from 7 AM to 11 PM. Send a WhatsApp or call +971 56 127 7925, or visit desertsafarilahbab.com to book your desert safari Lahbab trip.
