Desert Safari Lahbab: Prices, Timings and What to Expect
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.
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, around 45 minutes to an hour 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 in the hour before sunset. If you want a proper red dunes desert safari Dubai experience, this is the place.
Some safari companies use flatter desert nearer the city. It's quicker to reach, but the dunes are smaller and the sand is paler. We think the short extra drive to Lahbab is worth it, because the scenery is in a different league.
Our Most Popular Package
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. You start with dune bashing, then stop on a high dune for sunset. 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. Children under three go free.
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. It includes dune bashing, sandboarding and a short camel ride. Adults pay AED 65 and kids pay AED 55.
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 20-minute quad ride, VIP seating and a premium BBQ. Adults pay AED 139, kids pay AED 110, and it runs for around 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.
Overnight Desert Safari Lahbab
Waking up in the desert is something else. The overnight desert safari Lahbab trip includes everything from the evening safari, plus a campfire, a night in the 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
Want the car to yourselves? A private desert safari Lahbab trip costs 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 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. You'll bounce around and probably scream a little, but you're belted in the whole way.
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 silhouettes, stand on top of a dune and face the sun. If you want proper pictures without the effort, add the photo package for AED 79 per 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.
When to Go
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
• 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
• In December and January, bring a light jacket for the evening
FAQs About Lahbab
Is pickup really free?
Yes. Pickup by 4x4 is free from hotels in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman.
When do I pay?
You pay on the day of the trip, with no prepayment.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children pay less, and under-threes 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 get more info pickup.
How long is the drive to the desert?
From most Dubai hotels, it's around 45 to 60 minutes. 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.
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, and groups of friends come for the quad bikes and buggies. Photographers love the colour of the sand, especially in the late afternoon.
Ready for the Red Dunes?
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 book your desert safari Lahbab trip at desertsafarilahbab.com.
