Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. Out at Lahbab, the dunes are a deep red-orange colour, 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.
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.
The Lahbab red read more 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. We think the short extra drive to Lahbab is worth it, because the views are so much better.
Our Most Popular Package
Most guests book the evening desert safari Lahbab trip. We pick you up between 2:30 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. After that, you head to camp for a Tanoura show, a fire show and a 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. You get 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. Adults pay AED 139, kids pay AED 110, and it runs for around 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. 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.
Overnight Desert Safari Lahbab
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. 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, 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 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 belted in the whole way.
If you're pregnant, have back problems or are travelling with a baby, tell us when you book, and we'll help you pick the right trip.
How to Get the Best Photos
Charge your phone fully before the trip. 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.
Best Time to Visit Lahbab
The best months are October to April, 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.
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
• Bring sunglasses and wear something light
• In December and January, bring a light jacket for the evening
Questions People Ask
Do I pay extra for pickup?
No, 4x4 pickup 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, children pay less, and under-threes go free.
Do you have veg options?
Yes, the BBQ always includes vegetarian dishes.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before pickup.
How far is the camp from my hotel?
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.
Can I add a quad bike on the day?
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?
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, and groups of friends come for the quad bikes and buggies. 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. We're open 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.
