Go back in time and embrace the allure of the Arabian desert with a slow camel ride across its golden sands. For centuries, the camel has served as the ‘ship of the desert’ and has been an integral part of the life and communities that thrive in this sandy expanse. On your holiday in Dubai, you can experience a slice of Bedouin life atop a gentle camel, under the gaze of the mighty sun and while looking out into endless dunes. It’s an experience that will go down in your memory books, we’re sure! Here are the best camel rides and safaris in Dubai that you can choose from.
Why you should try a camel ride in Dubai
If you think the deserts surrounding Dubai are a quiet, well, deserted expanse, then, think again! It is in reality a hotbed of thrilling activities - from dune bashing to sand boarding, quad biking and other adrenaline-pumping outings. However, if you want a slice of the old and want to experience a gentler side to the desert then sign up for a camel ride that takes you a slow yet fascinating exploration of the desert.
Popular with adults and children, camel rides ensure you feel the dip and rise of the mighty dunes and sometimes even bring you face-to-face with life in the desert – from shimmering oases to wandering gazelles and oryxes.
Once you’ve made your way through the desert trail and bid adieu to your camel, you can spend an evening getting your hands patterned with henna, smoking a hookah, watching a belly dancing performance, or indulging in falconry before sitting down for a lavish, traditional meal.
Top camel desert safaris in Dubai
Choose from our top-rated desert safari experiences that include camel rides across the golden dunes of the desert surrounding Dubai.
Your camel safari ride in Dubai deconstructed
Camel safari rides are typically offered as part of desert safari experiences in Dubai. Typically, the experience includes hotel pick-ups from where you are taken to the sandy environs of the desert. Here, with professional guides to lead the way, you can sign up for plenty of thrills - from dune-bashing to sandboarding, ATV rides, desert cycling and many more.
When you choose a camel ride safari as part of your desert experience, you are first introduced to the gentle creatures and given a quick tutorial on camel riding. However, you need not worry too much as camels have long been friends with humans and possess a gentle temperament. Once your lesson is completed, you are helped to mount the camel and you hit the desert trail. The camels usually move together and through the sands and their slow pace ensures you soak in the sights and the sounds of the desert.
At the end of the experience, you return to the camp and enjoy a few laidback activities and a deliciously prepared meal in the company of your fellow travellers.
Tips for your camel ride safari in Dubai
- While there is no strict dress code, we recommend you wear light, comfortable clothing so that you can climb and sit on the camel with ease.
- Carrying a thin jacket or a stole is advisable as the desert gets chilly at night.
- Eat only a light meal as camel rides involve sudden movements that may cause discomfort.
- Follow instructions carefully and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have any.
- Be kind and gentle with the animals.
