Table of contents
Quick answer
Most visitors ride a camel for a few minutes at a desert safari camp, included in the price. For more, camel treks of 30 minutes to an hour or longer head into the dunes at sunrise or sunset, led on foot by a handler. Getting on and off is the tricky part — lean back as the camel rises, back legs first. Choose operators whose camels look healthy and rested and are never overloaded.
1What kinds of camel ride are there?
| Option | Length | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Camp ride | LengthA few minutes | WhereIncluded in most evening safaris |
| Camel trek | Length30–60 minutes | WhereSunrise or sunset, often with a morning safari |
| Longer camel caravan | LengthHalf a day or more | WhereSpecialist operators, in the cooler months |
2How do you get on and off a camel?
- 1The camel kneels and you climb on from the side.
- 2Hold the handle and lean back as it rises, back legs first.
- 3Then lean forward as the front legs straighten.
- 4Relax and move with the sway; the handler leads.
- 5Lean back again as it kneels to let you off.
3What should you wear?
- Long, loose trousers — shorts and skirts can chafe.
- Closed shoes.
- Sunglasses and a hat for longer treks.
- Nothing loose in your pockets.
4Who can ride a camel?
Most people. Children usually ride with an adult, and operators set their own age and weight limits. The sway and the jerky mount can be hard on bad backs — a short camp ride is gentler than a long trek.
5How do you choose a responsible operator?
- The camels look healthy and well fed.
- They have shade and water between rides.
- No more than two riders per camel.
- Handlers are calm and never hit the animals.
6Other camel experiences near Dubai
- Camel racing at the Al Marmoom track in the winter racing season, usually early in the day.
- Camel milk — in cafés, as chocolate and in ice cream.
- Photos with camels at heritage sites and camps.
7Camel etiquette
- Approach from the side, never from behind.
- Do not feed a camel without the handler's say-so.
- Keep your hands away from its mouth — camels can bite.
- Stay seated and hold on until the camel has fully knelt.
Frequently asked questions
Do all desert safaris include a camel ride?
Most evening safaris include a short ride at the camp; longer treks cost extra.
How long is a camel trek in Dubai?
Usually 30–60 minutes, with longer rides from specialist operators.
Is riding a camel uncomfortable?
The sway takes getting used to, and getting up and down is jerky, but short rides are comfortable for most people.
Can children ride camels?
Yes, usually sitting with an adult. Operators set their own age rules.
Where can I watch camel racing in Dubai?
At the Al Marmoom camel racetrack during the winter racing season, usually early in the day.
What should I wear for a camel ride?
Long, loose trousers and closed shoes; shorts or a skirt can chafe.
Where can I ride a camel in Dubai?
At desert safari camps, on camel treks in the desert, and at some heritage and tourist spots.
How much is a camel ride in Dubai?
A short ride is usually included in an evening safari; longer treks are priced by the operator and the length.
Written by the TripReview team from our own price benchmarks and the rules published by UAE authorities, and updated 22 September 2026. Figures are ranges, not quotes — check the latest rules with the official source before you travel. How we rate companies
