Top Dubai Camel Rides

For a quintessential experience in Dubai, book one of these top-rated camel rides according to customer reviews:

• Dubai Red Dunes ATV, Camels, Stargazing & 5* BBQ Al Khayma Camp
• Dubai Premium Dunes Safari, Stargazing, 5* BBQ at Al Khayma Camp
• Dubai Desert Safari Dune Bashing, 60min ATV Quad, Camel Ride, BBQ
• Dubai Red Dune Desert Safari: Camel Ride, Sandboarding & BBQ Options
• Dubai Red Dunes Desert Safari, Quad Bike, Camel at Al Khayma Camp

Dubai camel rides start at about US$15 per person. Most camel rides are part of a Dubai desert tour, combined with other group activities such as a BBQ dinner, a 4WD “dune bashing” excursion, or sandboarding. More deluxe private tours with camel rides can cost upwards of US$400.

Most camel rides take place in the rolling dunes of the Dubai desert, less than an hour’s drive from the city. Tours usually head to a desert camp, from where you can enjoy a short camel ride and other activities, such as dune buggy rides. If you don’t want to leave the city limits, it’s also possible to enjoy a camel ride at JBR Beach.

You’ll want to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes or sneakers on a camel ride in Dubai. Long pants are ideal for straddling a camel’s back; avoid skirts or dresses, or anything too long or flappy that could get caught up in the saddle. The desert sun is strong, so consider wearing a long-sleeve shirt to protect you from the sun, as well as a sunhat and sunglasses.

Most camel rides in Dubai don’t state weight limits, but longer rides of more than an hour typically have a weight limit of 210lbs (95kg). Camels are generally much stronger than the average riding horse, and can comfortably carry two average-sized adults, depending on the distance and the type of camel (two-humped camels can bear greater loads). As most camel rides only last about 10 minutes, heavier individuals can often still take part, but check with your operator in advance to be sure.

Children as young as preschool can ride a camel with an adult in Dubai. However, outfitters may have different requirements, so check with your tour operator if you’re traveling with young kids and want to plan a fun family camel ride in the desert. Some camel rides are offered on combo tours with other adventurous activities, such as 4x4 dune bashing, that may have different age minimums.

It depends. Many Dubai desert safari packages include a camel ride, often paired with dinner and other activities such as sandboarding, ATV or buggy rides, and dune-bashing tours. In most cases, this consists of a short 5–10-minute ride along the edge of the dunes, so it’s ideal if you just want to experience what it feels like to ride a camel and take a few photos.

Dubai camel rides prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now:

• Dubai Camel Race with a Camel Ride
• Dubai: Desert Safari with Camel Ride and Dune Bashing
• Desert Safari Adventure with BBQ Dinner
• 4x4 Deluxe Desert Safari Dubai with Camel Riding
• Dubai Desert Safari With Camel Ride and Sand Boarding

The first thing to consider before booking a tour is the kind of camel ride you’re looking for: a short ride and photo opportunity, or a full camel trek? Check the inclusions carefully before booking to make sure you know exactly what you’re getting. Most tours include pickup and round-trip transport, but this is sometimes limited to central Dubai, so make sure to confirm that your hotel or accommodation is covered. Advance booking is always advised, as popular tours often sell out.

Dubai camel rides range from short 10-minute rides to full 90-minute treks. Camel rides are rarely the focus of a Dubai desert safari, so the activity tends to be short and sweet, with more emphasis on taking photos than on exploring. If you want to experience a full-length camel excursion and try walking and trotting on a camel, you can also book a guided camel ride.

The best time to book camel rides in Dubai is during the cooler winter months, typically from November through March. The mild weather creates a comfortable desert experience during this period, and you can enjoy the ride and the breathtaking landscape without the extreme heat of summer.

Yes, camel rides in Dubai are generally considered a safe activity if you use a reputable tour operator and follow instructions. Most camels are well-trained and led by experienced guides for the duration of the ride, though your comfort level may vary depending on the saddle. You will typically mount the camel from the ground with assistance from your guide and walk at a slow pace through soft, deep sand. However, camel rides aren’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back, neck, or other mobility issues.

Yes. Both group and private tours are available in Dubai, but check the tour description carefully to ensure the tour is fully private rather than a group tour with a private transfer. To escape the crowds, opt for a private morning or sunset safari, or look for tours that include a 45-minute camel ride, which allows you to travel further into the dunes.

Yes. While the traditional Dubai desert safari combines a camel ride with dune bashing and other adrenaline-fueled activities, there are also tours that offer a more relaxed experience. Try a sunset camel trek with dinner, a scenic camel ride along JBR beach, or an overnight camel caravan including a night at a traditional Bedouin-style camp.

It depends. While it isn’t inherently unethical to ride camels—they are well-adapted to desert conditions and can easily carry the average adult—there are valid concerns about their use in tourism. Responsible tour operators should ensure fair working conditions for camels, including limiting working hours and weight loads, using properly fitted, padded saddles, and conducting regular veterinary checks. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before booking, check recent travelers’ reviews, and avoid low-cost tours where animal welfare isn’t a priority.