Ask anyone who has done a few safaris in Dubai, and they'll tell you the sand isn't the same everywhere. Out at Lahbab, the dunes are a deep red-orange colour, they're taller than in many other areas, 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.
Where Is the Lahbab Desert?
The Lahbab desert Dubai area sits off the Dubai to Hatta road, about 45 to 60 minutes' drive from the city. Getting there is easy, because we include 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. 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 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. 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 trip lasts around six hours. You start with dune bashing, then 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.
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.
Premium Safari with Quad Bike
If you want to drive on the dunes yourself, go for the Premium Safari with Quad Bike. You get the evening safari, a 20-minute quad ride, VIP seats and a better 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.
Sleeping Under the Stars
There's something special about waking up in the desert. 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. The whole thing takes around 17 hours, at AED 189 for adults and AED 150 for children.
Private Trips
Prefer not to share? A private desert safari Lahbab trip costs AED 649 per 4x4, for up to six guests. 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 drive to the camp and join the activities, shows, 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. You'll bounce around and probably scream a little, 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.
Photo Tips for the Red Dunes
Make sure your phone is charged before the sunset stop. 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. Then put the phone away for a moment and simply take more info it all in.
Best Time to Visit Lahbab
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.
Before You Book
• You don't pay anything until the day of the trip
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup
• There are vegetarian options at the BBQ
• Wear light clothes and bring sunglasses
• A jacket helps in winter, as the desert gets cool at night
FAQs About Lahbab
Is pickup really free?
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.
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?
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, 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.
Is Lahbab Right for You?
First-time visitors who want classic desert views will love Lahbab. 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
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 visit desertsafarilahbab.com to book your desert safari Lahbab trip.
