Step into the sands of tradition. Ride the ship of the desert.
When you think of Dubai, the first image that comes to mind is its futuristic skyline — but just beyond the glitz lies the timeless soul of the Arabian desert.
And there’s no better way to connect with that heritage than a camel ride across the golden dunes.
The camel, fondly known as the “Ship of the Desert,” has been an inseparable part of Emirati culture for centuries — a symbol of endurance, loyalty, and grace that carried Bedouins across the vast Arabian sands long before skyscrapers rose from the ground.
Today, camel riding in Dubai is a blend of authentic tradition and modern adventure, offering travelers a chance to experience desert life the way it once was — slow, serene, and deeply spiritual.
🌅 The Essence of Camel Riding
A camel ride in Dubai isn’t just a tourist activity — it’s a cultural journey that transports you back to the days of nomads and caravans.
You’ll sway gently with the desert breeze, hear the soft crunch of sand beneath hooves, and watch the sun paint the dunes in shades of gold and crimson.
Whether it’s a short ride through the dunes or a full-blown sunset camel safari with Bedouin dinner, every experience promises peace, beauty, and authenticity.
🏜️ Top Camel Riding Experiences in Dubai
1. Camel Desert Safari
The classic and most popular way to experience a camel ride — a guided desert safari where your camel trek is paired with traditional activities.
You’ll typically ride for 30–45 minutes across the dunes before settling at a Bedouin-style camp for Arabic coffee, BBQ dinner, and cultural performances.
Highlights:
- 30–45 minute camel trek
- BBQ buffet dinner under the stars
- Falconry shows, henna painting, shisha lounges
- Live Tanoura and belly dance shows
Best Operators:
- Platinum Heritage – +971 4 440 9827
- Arabian Adventures – +971 4 303 4888
- OceanAir Travels – +971 4 294 6060
2. Sunset Camel Trek
A magical experience designed for photographers and romantics — as the desert sky turns orange and purple, the silhouettes of camels create postcard-perfect views.
Highlights:
- Private or group ride during sunset
- Refreshments at the dunes
- Perfect for couples and families
- Optional dinner upgrade
Best For: Honeymooners and photographers.
Duration: 1.5–2 hours
3. Camel Polo Experience
A unique fusion of heritage and sport — camel polo is Dubai’s creative twist on the royal game of polo, played while riding camels instead of horses.
It’s both hilarious and thrilling — a must-try for team outings or corporate groups.
Operator:
- Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club – +971 4 361 8111
4. Camel Racing at Al Marmoom
For a glimpse of Emirati passion and tradition, visit the Al Marmoom Camel Race Track — one of Dubai’s most iconic venues for camel racing.
Here, camels fitted with tiny robot jockeys race across the sand at speeds that will surprise you.
Highlights:
- Free public entry during racing season
- Morning races (usually weekends)
- Cultural immersion in local traditions
Location: Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
Season: October – April
5. Private Camel Ride & Falcon Experience
For those seeking exclusivity, private tours include a camel ride combined with falconry, photography sessions, and a personalized guide.
The falcon show offers insight into one of the UAE’s oldest traditions — the royal art of falcon training.
Best Operators:
- Royal Shaheen Events – +971 50 874 0445
- Platinum Heritage – +971 4 440 9827
🏕️ Where to Go for Camel Rides in Dubai
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve | Vast protected area, ideal for authentic camel rides and eco-safaris. |
| Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) | Exclusive, premium camel safaris in a protected desert ecosystem. |
| Al Khayma Camp (by OceanAir) | Family-friendly camp with dinner and cultural shows. |
| Al Qudra Desert | Quieter, scenic dunes near the city — perfect for self-drive access. |
| Bab Al Shams Desert Resort | Offers luxury camel ride packages with fine dining. |
🕰️ Best Time for Camel Riding
The best season for camel riding is October to April, when the weather is cooler and skies are clear.
Morning rides (7–9 AM) offer cooler air and soft light for photography, while evening rides (5–7 PM) capture breathtaking sunsets.
💰 Pricing Overview (Approximate)
| Experience | Duration | Average Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Short Camel Ride | 30 Minutes | 100 – 200 AED |
| Camel Safari with Dinner | 6 Hours | 250 – 450 AED |
| Private Camel Trek | 1 Hour | 400 – 800 AED |
| Camel Polo / Falcon Experience | 2 Hours | 500 – 900 AED |
Prices vary by season and inclusions (meals, transfers, private guide).
📸 What to Expect During Your Camel Ride
- Pickup & Transfers: Most tours include pickup from your hotel in 4×4 vehicles.
- Camel Introduction: Learn how to mount, balance, and communicate with your camel.
- Ride & Photo Stops: 20–45 minutes of trekking through scenic dunes.
- Cultural Activities: Enjoy falconry, shisha, henna, and Arabic coffee afterward.
- Dinner & Entertainment: BBQ buffet with live performances in the evening tours.
👕 What to Wear
- Light, breathable clothing (cotton or linen)
- Closed-toe shoes or sandals
- Sunglasses and hat for daytime rides
- Jacket or shawl for evenings (it gets cool in the desert)
📞 Top Camel Riding Operators in Dubai
| Operator Name | Contact | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Platinum Heritage | +971 4 440 9827 | www.platinum-heritage.com |
| Arabian Adventures | +971 4 303 4888 | www.arabian-adventures.com |
| OceanAir Travels | +971 4 294 6060 | www.oceanairtravels.com |
| Desert Safari Dubai | +971 4 208 7445 | www.desertsafaridubai.com |
| Royal Shaheen Events | +971 50 874 0445 | www.royalshaheen.ae |
| Dream Journey Tourism | +971 50 421 4422 | www.dreamjourney.ae |
| Dubai Private Adventure | +971 55 126 7868 | www.dubaiprivateadventure.com |
| Arabian Desert Safari | +971 56 504 7302 | www.arabiandesertsafari.com |
| Excursion Point Tourism | +971 50 987 8735 | www.excursionpoint.com |
| Happy Adventures Tourism | +971 4 255 5292 | www.happydesertsafari.com |
🐫 Fun Facts About Camels
- Camels can survive up to 10 days without water in the desert.
- They can carry loads of over 200 kg for long distances.
- Camels have special eyelids and nostrils to protect against sandstorms.
- There are over 300,000 camels registered in the UAE — many used for sport and breeding.
- The UAE even celebrates “Camel Beauty Contests” annually in Al Dhafra!
🧭 In Summary
A camel ride in Dubai isn’t about speed — it’s about serenity.
It’s about reconnecting with the earth, the wind, and the rhythm of a timeless desert.
Whether you’re watching the sunset from a dune peak, riding in a caravan under the stars, or laughing with friends at a camel camp — it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave the sands behind.
So saddle up on the ship of the desert, sway with the dunes, and discover the heart of old Arabia — only in Dubai.
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