Camel Riding Dubai: What First-Timers Need to Know (2026)

First time on a camel? I get it – they're tall, they make weird noises, and the mounting process looks intimidating. After helping hundreds of first-timers at our desert camps, here's everything you need to know before your camel ride.

What Actually Happens During a Camel Ride

Let's break down the experience step by step:

The Mounting Process (The Scary Part)

This is what worries most people, so let's demystify it:

1. Camel is sitting down – you approach from the side (handler will guide you)
2. Swing your leg over – just like mounting a horse, but the saddle is higher
3. Hold the front handle TIGHT – this is crucial for the next part
4. Camel stands up (back legs first) – you'll pitch forward suddenly. This is normal!
5. Then front legs – you'll pitch backward. Hold on, stay relaxed
6. You're up! – about 2 meters off the ground now

The whole process takes 10-15 seconds. It feels dramatic but the handlers do this hundreds of times daily. For more on preparing for desert activities, see our what to wear on safari guide.

The Ride Itself

Once you're up and moving:

• Duration: 15-20 minutes typically (not the marathon some expect)
• Speed: Walking pace – about 5 km/h
• Route: Usually a loop around the camp area, sometimes to a photo spot
• Movement: Swaying side-to-side rhythm – you'll adapt within 2 minutes

Getting Off (The Easy Part)

Dismounting is the reverse – camel sits down front first, then back. You'll pitch forward then backward again, but now you know what's coming. Swing your leg over and step off. Done!

Is the Camel Ride Included in Desert Safari Packages?

This is the most common question I get. Here's the breakdown:

Package Type	Camel Ride Included?	Duration
Standard Desert Safari	Yes – short ride	10-15 minutes
Premium Desert Safari	Yes – longer ride	15-20 minutes
Morning Safari	Yes	15-20 minutes
Dune Buggy Only	No	N/A

Our premium desert safari includes the camel ride plus dune bashing, entertainment, and dinner – it's the most popular option for first-time visitors.

Tips for First-Time Camel Riders

1. What to Wear

• Long pants recommended – the saddle can rub on bare legs
• Closed shoes – easier to keep feet in stirrups, protects from sand
• Nothing loose around your neck – scarves can flap and startle the camel
• Secure your sunglasses – the mounting motion can knock them off

2. Camera/Phone Strategy

You'll want photos, but the mounting process requires both hands. Here's what works:

• Give your phone to the handler – they'll take photos of you mounting and riding
• Use a wrist strap – if you want to take photos while riding
• Don't try to take photos during mounting/dismounting – you need both hands
• Best photo moment: Once you're up and stable, with dunes in background

For more photography tips, see our desert photography guide.

3. During the Ride

• Relax your hips – fighting the sway makes it worse
• Lean back slightly – not forward
• Keep feet in stirrups – helps with balance
• Talk to the camel – seriously, they respond to calm voices

4. Common Concerns Addressed

"Will the camel bite me?"
Extremely unlikely. These are trained tourism camels that interact with hundreds of people weekly. They might make grumbling noises (that's normal) but they're not aggressive.

"What if the camel runs?"
The handler walks alongside, holding a lead rope. The camel goes where the handler goes. They don't run.

"I'm scared of heights"
You're about 2 meters up – roughly standing on a step ladder. The motion is slow and controlled. Most height-nervous guests say it was easier than expected.

"I have a bad back – is this okay?"
The swaying motion can aggravate back issues. If you have significant back problems, you might skip the camel and enjoy watching others. No judgment – plenty of other activities available!

Weight and Age Restrictions

Practical info most guides don't mention:

• Maximum weight: Usually 100-120kg per person (varies by operator)
• Minimum age: Typically 3-4 years old (with adult on same camel)
• Solo riding: Usually from age 6-8 (depends on child's confidence)
• Two riders per camel: Sometimes possible for small adults/children – ask your guide

Best Time for Camel Rides

Within the safari schedule, timing matters:

• Golden hour (30 min before sunset): Best lighting for photos, cooler temperatures
• Just after arrival at camp: Camels are fresh, not tired from full day
• Avoid midday: Hot for both you and the camel (morning safaris only)

For more on timing your visit, see our best time to visit Dubai desert guide.

What About Kids?

Camel rides are popular with families:

• Toddlers (2-4): Ride with parent on same camel, held securely
• Young kids (5-7): Can ride solo if confident, handler walks alongside
• Older kids (8+): Usually fine solo, often the most enthusiastic riders

The handlers are experienced with nervous kids. They'll assess each child and recommend the best approach.

Camel Ride vs Other Activities: How It Compares

Activity	Thrill Level	Duration	Physical Demand
Camel Ride	Low – relaxing	15-20 min	Low – sit and enjoy
Dune Bashing	High – intense	30-40 min	Low – just hold on
Sandboarding	Medium	15-20 min	Medium – climbing dunes
Dune Buggy	High – you drive	30-60 min	Medium – active driving

Want more adrenaline? Our self-drive dune buggy puts you behind the wheel.

Book Your Camel Experience

The camel ride is included in most of our desert safari packages:

• Premium Desert Safari – includes extended camel ride, dune bashing, dinner, entertainment
• Standard Desert Safari – includes camel ride with all activities

For the cultural context of camel riding in the UAE, see our guide to desert cultural experiences.

Final Thoughts

The camel ride is a highlight for most visitors – not because it's thrilling, but because it's authentic. You're doing something that Bedouin traders did for centuries across these same dunes. The pace is slow enough to actually appreciate the desert landscape, and the photo opportunities are excellent.

If you're nervous, know that I've seen guests who were terrified during mounting become completely relaxed within the first minute of riding. The camel's gentle swaying rhythm is surprisingly calming once you settle in.