Should You Do a Camel Ride in Dubai?

A camel ride in Dubai is usually part of a desert safari package. Expect a 20-40 minute plod through the dunes on a calm but swaying camel, often at sunset or sunrise. It’s not a fast or thrilling activity – more of a gentle, slightly awkward photo opportunity with views of red sand dunes. Most tours combine it with dune bashing in 4x4s, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner at a desert camp with carpets, shisha, and basic entertainment. The whole experience lasts 4-8 hours depending on whether you choose a morning, afternoon, or evening tour.

The best time is winter (November to March) when daytime temperatures are pleasant and evenings are cool. Summer rides are possible but feel much hotter even at sunrise. Expect to pay around $30-80 per person for a basic shared tour; premium private options with fewer people and better food push toward $100-150. Prices almost always include pickup and drop-off from your hotel.

Pick a smaller-group sunset tour if you want decent photos and less chaos. Skip anything advertising “authentic Bedouin experience” – they’re all tourist setups. If you’re short on time or dislike group tours, you can safely skip camel riding altogether; the desert scenery is nicer from the dunes or a 4x4 anyway.