Red Dunes Safari Dubai: The Ultimate Desert Adventure Experience
- Anurag Saikia
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
Red dunes safari is Dubai's most thrilling desert experience, taking adventurers to the dramatic Lahbab Desert where towering crimson sand dunes create an otherworldly landscape. Located approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Dubai, this unique desert adventure offers adrenaline-pumping activities and breathtaking scenery that sets it apart from standard desert safaris.
What Makes Red Dunes Safari Special
The red dunes get their distinctive crimson hue from iron oxide in the sand, creating a striking contrast to the typical golden dunes found elsewhere in Dubai. These impressive dunes can reach heights of up to 300 feet, making them some of the tallest in the region and perfect for extreme dune bashing adventures.
Located in the Lahbab Desert (also known as the Red Sand Desert), this area offers a more remote and less crowded experience compared to standard desert safaris. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour from Dubai city center, but the dramatic landscape and unique terrain make it worth every minute.

Activities and Experiences
Dune Bashing Adventure
The highlight of any red dunes safari is the extended dune bashing experience lasting 30-45 minutes, significantly longer than standard safaris. Professional drivers navigate the steep, towering red dunes in air-conditioned 4x4 vehicles, providing an adrenaline-pumping rollercoaster-like experience across the challenging terrain.
Additional Activities
Sandboarding: Slide down the massive red sand dunes on a sandboard
Camel riding: Experience traditional desert transportation
Quad biking: Optional ATV rides across the red dunes (additional cost)
Photography opportunities: Capture stunning sunrise or sunset views
Falcon interactions: Meet and photograph these magnificent birds
Cultural Experiences
Most red dunes safaris include visits to traditional Bedouin-style camps where guests can enjoy:
Arabic coffee and dates welcome
Henna painting
Shisha lounges
Traditional entertainment shows (belly dancing, Tanoura dance, fire shows)
BBQ buffet dinner under the stars
Red Dunes Safari Pricing 2025
Red dunes safari prices vary depending on the package and inclusions:
Standard Red Dunes Safari
AED 150-200 per person (includes dune bashing, camp activities, dinner)
AED 200 per adult, AED 170 for children (3-10 years)
Premium Packages
AED 250-350 per person (includes quad biking)
AED 350-900+ for luxury experiences with private camps
Private Red Dunes Safari
AED 700-1,000 for private vehicle (ideal for families or groups)
Additional Activities (Optional)
Quad biking: AED 150-250 for 20-30 minutes
Dune buggy rides: From AED 500 (2-seater and 4-seater options)
How to Book Your Red Dunes Safari
Booking Options
Most red dunes safaris can be booked through:
Online tour operators like Viator, GetYourGuide, and Klook
Local desert safari companies in Dubai
Hotel concierge services
What's Typically Included
Hotel pickup and drop-off from Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman
Transportation in luxury 4x4 vehicles
Professional English/Arabic speaking guide
All safari activities (dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides)
Traditional camp experience with entertainment
BBQ buffet dinner with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
Refreshments (water, soft drinks, Arabic coffee, tea)
Best Time to Experience Red Dunes Safari
Optimal Seasons
The best time for red dunes safari is from October to March when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable, ranging from 20-30°C during the day. This winter period offers:
Pleasant weather for outdoor activities
Clear skies for photography
Comfortable evening temperatures for camp activities
Daily Timing
Afternoon departure: 2:30-3:00 PM pickup from hotels
Return: Around 9:30 PM
Total duration: 6-7 hours including transportation
Red Dunes vs Standard Desert Safari
Feature | Red Dunes Safari | Standard Desert Safari |
Location | Lahbab Desert (50km from Dubai) | Al Awir Desert (30-40km from Dubai) |
Dune Height | Up to 300 feet | 50-100 feet |
Dune Bashing Duration | 30-45 minutes | 15-25 minutes |
Adventure Level | High intensity | Moderate |
Crowd Level | Less crowded | More popular/crowded |
Price Range | AED 150-350+ | AED 90-130 |
Best For | Thrill-seekers, photographers | Families, cultural experience |
Important Tips for Your Safari
What to Wear
Light, breathable clothing for daytime heat
Jacket or sweater for cooler evening temperatures
Closed-toe shoes for sand activities
Sunglasses and hat for sun protection
What to Bring
Camera or phone with protective case (sand gets everywhere)
Sunscreen for UV protection
Extra water to stay hydrated
Light snacks if needed before dune bashing
Health Considerations
Not recommended for pregnant women, seniors with back problems, or those with heart conditions
Eat lightly before dune bashing to avoid motion sickness
Stay hydrated throughout the experience
Red dunes safari offers an unforgettable desert adventure that combines heart-pounding thrills with cultural immersion. The dramatic red landscape, challenging terrain, and comprehensive desert experience make it a must-do activity for anyone seeking the ultimate Dubai desert adventure. With proper planning and the right expectations, this safari will create memories that last a lifetime.


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