Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. At Lahbab, the sand turns a deep red-orange, they're taller than in many other areas, 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.
How Far Is Lahbab from Dubai?
The Lahbab desert Dubai area sits off the Dubai to Hatta road, about 45 to 60 minutes' drive from the city. You don't need to worry about getting there, 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 in the hour before sunset. If you want a proper red dunes desert safari Dubai experience, this is the place.
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.
The Evening Trip
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. 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. Children under three go free.
Morning Desert Safari Lahbab
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. The price is AED 65 for adults and AED 55 for kids.
Add Some Speed
If you want to drive on the dunes yourself, go for the Premium Safari with Quad Bike. It's the full evening trip plus a website 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.
Already booked a standard trip? You can add quad bike Lahbab time at the camp 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.
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. The whole thing takes around 17 hours, at AED 189 for adults and AED 150 for children.
Your Own Car, Your Own Pace
Prefer not to share? Our private desert safari Lahbab trip is AED 649 per 4x4, for up to six guests. 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 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
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. 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.
Best Time to Visit Lahbab
October to April is the best time to go, when the days are warm and the evenings are cool. 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
• 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
Common Questions
Do I pay extra for pickup?
Yes. Pickup by 4x4 is free from hotels in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman.
Do I need to pay in advance?
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.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your pickup time.
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.
Is it possible to add a quad bike at the camp?
Yes. A 30-minute quad bike costs AED 120 per bike, though it helps to mention it when you book.
Who Will Enjoy It Most?
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, and groups of friends come for the quad bikes and buggies. Photographers love the colour of the sand, especially in the late afternoon.
How to Book
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. Call or WhatsApp us on +971 56 127 7925, or visit desertsafarilahbab.com to book your desert safari Lahbab trip.
