Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. At Lahbab, the sand turns a deep red-orange, the dunes are high and steep, and the colours at sunset are something else. That's why we always suggest a desert safari Lahbab trip for first-timers.
This guide explains where Lahbab is, what each package includes and how much it costs.
Where Is the Lahbab Desert?
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. 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. We think the short extra drive to Lahbab is worth it, because the scenery is in a different league.
Evening Desert Safari Lahbab
Most guests book the evening desert safari Lahbab trip. We pick you up between 2:30 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. 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. Children under three go free.
Morning Desert Safari Lahbab
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. The price is AED 65 for adults and AED 55 for kids.
Premium Safari with Quad Bike
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. 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. You can also add a 30-minute dune buggy for AED 299, a 20-minute camel trek for AED 45 or a photo package for AED 79 per group.
Stay the Night
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. It lasts about 17 hours and costs AED 189 for adults and AED 150 for kids.
Private and Own Car Options
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 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 read more 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 suggest the best option for you.
How to Get the Best Photos
Make sure your phone is charged before the sunset stop. Keep the sun behind you to make the red sand really stand out. For silhouette shots, face the sun from the top of a dune. 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.
Best Time to Visit Lahbab
October to April is the best time to go, when days are warm but nights are pleasant. 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. Book a few days in advance for weekends.
A Few Practical Tips
• No prepayment is 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
• Bring sunglasses and wear something light
• A jacket helps in winter, as the desert gets cool at night
FAQs About Lahbab
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.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. Kids have their own lower prices, and children under three go free.
Do you have veg options?
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?
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, 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 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. We're open 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.
