Why the Red Dunes Make a Desert Safari Lahbab So Special
Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. Out at Lahbab, the dunes are a deep red-orange colour, they're taller than in many other areas, 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?
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, as we offer 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 just before the sun goes down. If you've been searching for a red dunes desert safari Dubai trip, this is it.
Some operators use flatter sand closer to Dubai. 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.
Our Most Popular Package
Most guests book the evening desert safari Lahbab trip. Pickup is between 2:30 PM 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.
It costs AED 75 for adults and AED 60 for kids. Kids under three don't pay at all.
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. You get dune bashing, sandboarding and a short camel ride. The price is AED 65 for adults and AED 55 for kids.
Quad Bike Lahbab
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. 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 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.
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, 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, 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.
Dune Bashing at Lahbab
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.
Tips for Great Photos
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 silhouette shots, face the sun from the top of a dune. If you want proper pictures without the effort, add the photo package for AED 79 per group. The best light doesn't last long, so have your camera ready as soon as the driver stops. Then put the phone away for a moment and simply take it all in.
When to Go
October to April is the best time to go, when the days are warm and the evenings are cool. In summer, stick to the evening trip, because it cools down after sunset. 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.
A Few Practical Tips
• No prepayment is needed, you pay on the day
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup
• There are vegetarian options at the BBQ
• Wear light clothes and bring sunglasses
• In here December and January, bring a light jacket for the evening
Common Questions
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.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes. Kids have their own lower prices, and children under three 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 long is the drive to the desert?
It takes about 45 minutes to an hour from most hotels in Dubai. 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 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.
Ready for the Red Dunes?
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 book your desert safari Lahbab trip at desertsafarilahbab.com.
