Desert Safari Lahbab: Prices, Timings and What to Expect
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 at sunset the whole place glows. That's why we always suggest a desert safari Lahbab trip for first-timers.
Here's everything you need to know: where it is, what's included and how much you'll pay.
Getting to Lahbab
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 in the hour before sunset. If you've been searching for a red dunes desert safari Dubai trip, this is it.
Some safari companies use flatter desert nearer the city. It saves a bit of website 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. 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.
For Early Birds
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. Adults pay AED 65 and kids pay AED 55.
Quad Bike Lahbab
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. 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
Waking up in the desert is something else. The overnight desert safari Lahbab trip includes everything from the evening safari, 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.
Your Own Car, Your Own Pace
Want the car to yourselves? 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.
The Fun Part: Dune Bashing
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. 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 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.
Before You Book
• No prepayment is needed, you pay on the day
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup
• Vegetarian food is available at dinner
• Bring sunglasses and wear something light
• In December and January, bring a light jacket for the evening
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.
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 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.
Is Lahbab Right for You?
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. 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 visit desertsafarilahbab.com to book your desert safari Lahbab trip.
