Desert Safari Lahbab: A Local's Guide to the Red Dunes
Desert Safari Lahbab: A Local's Guide to the Red Dunes
Blog Article
Not all desert in Dubai looks the same. Out at Lahbab, the dunes are a deep red-orange colour, the dunes are high and steep, 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
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. 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. For us, the extra few minutes on the road are worth it, because the scenery is in a different league.
Our Most Popular Package
The evening desert safari Lahbab trip is what most people book. 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. 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.
For Early Birds
Not a night person? The morning desert safari Lahbab trip is shorter, at about four hours. We collect you between 7:30 AM 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
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. 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.
Stay the Night
There's something special about waking up in the desert. 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. The whole thing takes around 17 hours, at AED 189 for adults and AED 150 for children.
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.
If you have your own 4x4, the Own Car Desert Safari is just 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. 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 website 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. The best light doesn't last long, so have your camera ready as soon as the driver stops. And don't forget to put the phone down for a minute and just enjoy it.
Best Time to Visit Lahbab
October to April is the best time to go, when days are warm but nights are pleasant. Summer trips still run, but the evening safari is the better choice then. 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.
Good to Know Before You Go
• No prepayment is needed, you pay on the day
• You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before pickup
• Vegetarian food is available at dinner
• Wear light clothes and bring sunglasses
• A jacket helps in winter, as the desert gets cool at night
Questions People Ask
Is pickup really free?
Yes. Pickup by 4x4 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, 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. The time passes quickly, and the driver is happy to answer questions 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.
Is Lahbab Right for You?
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, 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
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. Call or WhatsApp us on +971 56 127 7925, or visit desertsafarilahbab.com to book your desert safari Lahbab trip.
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