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, 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.
How Far Is Lahbab from Dubai?
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, as we offer free 4x4 pickup from hotels in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman. Our Lahbab desert camp is where you'll have dinner and watch the shows.
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 views are so much better.
The Evening Trip
The evening desert safari Lahbab trip is what most people book. We pick you up between 2:30 and 3:30 PM, and the trip lasts around 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.
It costs AED 75 for adults and AED 60 for kids. Children under three go free.
For Early Birds
If evenings don't work for you, try the morning desert safari Lahbab trip, which lasts about four hours. Pickup is between 7:30 more info 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.
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. 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, plus a campfire, a night in the 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? Our private desert safari Lahbab trip is 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. 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 belted in the whole way.
Pregnant guests, people with back problems and parents with babies should let us know when booking, 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. 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. And don't forget to put the phone down for a minute and just enjoy it.
Which Season Is Best?
October to April is the best time to go, when the days are warm and the evenings are cool. In summer, stick to the evening trip, because it cools down after sunset. The red dunes look their best in the last hour before sunset. Book a few days in advance for weekends.
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
• Bring sunglasses and wear something light
• A jacket helps in winter, as the desert gets cool at night
Questions People Ask
Do I pay extra for pickup?
No, 4x4 pickup is free from hotels in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman.
When do I pay?
No prepayment is needed. You pay on the day.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes, children pay less, and under-threes go free.
Is there vegetarian food?
Yes, there are vegetarian dishes at every BBQ.
What if I need to cancel?
Yes. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before pickup.
How far is the camp from my hotel?
From most Dubai hotels, it's around 45 to 60 minutes. 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, but it's best to tell us when you book so we can keep one ready.
Is Lahbab Right for You?
Lahbab is a great fit for first-time visitors who want the classic desert scenery. 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?
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 book your desert safari Lahbab trip at desertsafarilahbab.com.
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