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?
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. Dinner and the shows happen at our Lahbab desert camp.
The Lahbab red dunes are the main reason people come out this way. Photos taken here look amazing without any 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 scenery is in a different league.
Evening Desert Safari Lahbab
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.
Morning Desert Safari Lahbab
If evenings don't work for you, try the morning desert safari Lahbab trip, which lasts about four hours. We collect you between 7:30 AM 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
For a bit more adventure, the Premium Safari with Quad Bike is a great pick. You get the evening safari, a 20-minute quad ride, VIP seats and a better BBQ. It costs AED 139 for adults and AED 110 for kids, and lasts about six and a half hours.
You can also add quad bike Lahbab time to any trip 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
Waking up in the desert is something else. 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 and Own Car Options
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.
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.
Dune Bashing at Lahbab
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.
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. 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. 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?
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 red dunes look their best in the last hour before sunset. Weekends get busy, so book a few days ahead.
Before You Book
• No prepayment is get more info needed, you pay on the day
• You can cancel free of charge 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.
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, the BBQ always includes vegetarian dishes.
What if I need to cancel?
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.
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 Will Enjoy It Most?
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, 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
A Lahbab desert safari is the easiest way to see the best dunes near Dubai. Our team is available every day from 7 AM to 11 PM. Call or WhatsApp us on +971 56 127 7925, or book your desert safari Lahbab trip at desertsafarilahbab.com.
