Camel Riding in Abu Dhabi: What You Should Know

A typical camel ride in Abu Dhabi is short, 15-30 minutes, and feels surprisingly high up once the camel stands. Expect a gentle, swaying walk through desert sand with photo ops at sunset or during a basic desert stop. Most tours bundle it with dune bashing, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner at a camp. It’s not a multi-hour trek through remote dunes; it’s a tourist-friendly activity that gives you a taste of Bedouin culture without much physical effort. The animals are well-handled but can be grumpy, so don’t expect a deeply authentic nomadic experience.

Best time is November to March when it’s cooler; summer rides in 40°C+ heat are miserable. Expect to pay around $80–$180 per person depending on whether you choose a group tour, semi-private, or fully private experience with pickup from your hotel. Morning tours are calmer and less crowded than evening ones that include dinner and shows.

Pick a shorter morning ride if you mainly want the camel experience without the full tourist circus. Skip anything advertising “private trekking through untouched desert” if you’re in central Abu Dhabi – most are still at managed desert camps 45-90 minutes from the city. Wear closed shoes, long pants, and bring a scarf; the saddle can rub and desert wind kicks up sand.