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 the colours at sunset are something else. 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.
Where Is the Lahbab Desert?
Lahbab desert Dubai is just off the Dubai to Hatta road, around 45 minutes to an hour 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 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.
Our Most Popular check here Package
Most guests book the evening desert safari Lahbab trip. Pickup is between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM, and the whole trip takes about 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.
Adults pay AED 75, and children pay AED 60. Children under three go free.
The Morning Trip
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. 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. 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.
Stay the Night
Waking up in the desert is something else. 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.
Private Trips
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.
Driving your own 4x4? The Own Car Desert Safari is only 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 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.
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. 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. 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
• You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before pickup
• Vegetarian food is available at dinner
• Wear light clothes and bring sunglasses
• In December and January, bring a light jacket for the evening
FAQs About Lahbab
Is pickup really free?
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. 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?
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, though it helps to mention it when you book.
Who Is This Trip For?
Lahbab is a great fit for first-time visitors who want the classic desert scenery. 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. Photographers love the colour of the sand, especially in the late afternoon.
Book Your Lahbab Desert Safari
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. Call or WhatsApp us on +971 56 127 7925, or visit desertsafarilahbab.com to book your desert safari Lahbab trip.
