camel riding in the deserts
Lifestyle
Jan 6, 2026

Camel Riding in the Arabian Desert - A Timeless Adventure

10 min read

In most modern movies or documentaries, a well-defined aspect of Arabian life is the desert way of life. For a very long time in the past, the Arabs found a way to live in one of the harshest climates on Earth, before it turned into one of the best destinations demonstrating advanced levels of innovation and creativity in every department, including architectural structures, highways, waterways, and many more.

A proper way to experience the UAE’s timeless past is to go camel riding in the desert. With this perfectly curated experience, go through every Arabian timeline: how the early Arabs adapted to life in the desert, golden dunes, and a seemingly never-ending expanse of land. This is the perfect opportunity to savor a completely different experience from the status quo.

If you’re feeling bored from regular sightseeing, camel riding in the deserts gives you a different perspective on life before the UAE’s economic boom. In this guide, we will reveal why, what, and the best pricing to have the best experience when you opt in for the activity.

Arabian desert camel tours

Camel Riding in the Arabian Desert: Why it is a Popular Event in Dubai

The glamour of participating in Arabian desert camel tours seems surreal and completely awe-inspiring for many aspiring enthusiasts, but camel riding in the deserts presents a unique opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the reason for the adoption of camels in the UAE’s early days. Camels were a vital part of the Arabian trade during these times. For the most part, they were seen as the ships of the desert due to their versatility and undeniable resilience.

For tourists and expatriates, camel riding in the deserts presents an amazing opportunity to reimagine what life would have been like without the technological advancements that have bolstered the economic boom within the UAE. Instead of a high-octane experience, it is an opportunity to slowly observe and absorb what the Arabian desert has to offer.

This is perfect for families looking to experience something entirely different and unique from the regular tourist offerings. Organizing a camel ride meetup adds a layer of intrigue and sustained pleasure while providing maximum entertainment to both guests and friends while riding through the vast expanse of the Arabian desert.

What to Expect from a Camel Riding Experience

Most camel riding experiences take place in designated desert areas on the outskirts of Dubai, often as part of organized desert tours or standalone camel ride packages. Upon arrival, experienced guides introduce you to the camels, explain safety basics, and assist you as you mount and dismount.

The ride itself is calm and rhythmic. As the camel rises to its feet, you’ll feel a gentle sway, part of the charm and authenticity of camel riding in the deserts. The trek usually takes you across soft dunes, offering uninterrupted views of the vast desert landscape, with plenty of opportunities for photos along the way.

camel trekking Dubai

Camel Riding Packages and Prices in Dubai

Prices for camel trekking in Dubai vary depending on duration, timing, and what’s included. Below is a general guide to help plan your experience:

Short Camel Rides

Ideal for first-timers or those looking for a quick experience.

  • Duration: 10-30 minutes

  • Price range: AED 60 – AED 150 per person

  • Often available at desert camps or as part of basic tours

Standard Camel Riding Experiences

A more immersive ride that allows you to explore the dunes at a relaxed pace.

  • Duration: 30-45 minutes

  • Price range: AED 200 – AED 300 per person

  • Suitable for families, couples, and photography enthusiasts

Sunset Camel Rides

One of the most popular options is offering breathtaking desert views as the sun dips below the dunes.

  • Duration: 30–45 minutes

  • Price range: AED 230 – AED 270 per person

  • Ideal for romantic outings and memorable photo moments

Camel Riding as Part of a Desert Safari

Many full desert safari packages include camel riding alongside other activities.

  • Inclusions may include dune bashing, sandboarding, BBQ dinner, live entertainment, and cultural experiences.

  • Price range: AED 250 – AED 350+ per person, depending on inclusions

Availability may vary based on season, weather conditions, and demand, especially during peak tourist months, so booking in advance is always recommended.

best camel riding in the deserts

Best Time for Camel Riding in the Deserts

The most comfortable time for the best camel riding in the deserts is between October and April, when temperatures are cooler and evenings are pleasant. Early morning rides are perfect for avoiding heat and enjoying soft light, while sunset rides offer dramatic colors and cooler breezes.

During summer months, camel rides are still available but usually scheduled early in the morning or late in the evening for comfort and safety.

What to Wear & Practical Tips

To make the most of your experience, keep these tips in mind:

  • Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and closed-toe shoes.

  • Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

  • Carry water, especially for longer rides.

  • Listen carefully to your guide’s instructions; they ensure both your safety and the camel’s comfort.

Camel riding is generally suitable for all ages, though pregnant women or individuals with back issues should consult tour operators beforehand.

Beyond the Ride: The Desert Experience

Camel riding is often just one highlight of a larger desert journey. Many experiences include traditional camps where you can relax on cushions, enjoy Arabic coffee and dates, try henna painting, or watch cultural performances. These moments enhance the feeling of stepping back in time, a key reason why camel riding in Dubai remains so popular.

As the sky changes color and the desert cools, the peaceful silence becomes part of the experience, something rarely found within the city.

camel riding dubai

Getting There the Easy Way with BENO

Reaching the desert doesn’t have to mean rigid schedules or crowded transport. Booking a tour and ride with BENO gives you the freedom to plan your camel riding adventure exactly how you want.

With your own vehicle, you can: Choose your preferred timing: sunrise, sunset, or evening.

  • Travel comfortably with family or friends.

  • Carry essentials like water, cameras, and extra clothing with ease.

  • Explore nearby desert spots before or after your camel ride.

Whether you opt for a comfortable SUV for group trips or a sleek car for a quiet desert escape, BENO’s flexible rental options make every journey smooth and stress-free. It’s the ideal way to turn a camel ride into a full desert day experience.

A Journey Worth Taking

In a city known for constant innovation, camel riding in the deserts offers something refreshingly timeless. It’s a reminder of Dubai’s roots, a peaceful contrast to modern life, and an experience that resonates long after the ride ends.

Whether you’re discovering Dubai for the first time or rediscovering it as a resident, a camel ride through the Arabian Desert is a journey worth taking and one of the numerous activities to enjoy; slow, soulful, and unforgettable.

###FAQS

  • Is it true that camels can walk 100 miles in the desert without water?

Yes, they can do this by storing fat in their humps, which can eventually be broken down to water when the resource becomes scarce.

  • Why do people ride camels in the desert?

People ride camels for a wide range of reasons, but the dominant reason is that camels can survive irregular heat conditions.

  • Are camels friendly to humans?

Camels are statistically one of the few animals that are quite receptive towards humans compared to most of the bigger animals.

How long is a camel pregnant for?

Camels typically tend to be pregnant for 12 months.

Asegun David

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Asegun David

David specializes in high grade SEO-focused web content and branding pages with over 5 years of experience transforming content ideas into measurable growth. For David, copywriting isn't just a skill, it's a burning passion deeply rooted in professionalism.

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