What to Expect on a Camel Ride Desert Safari Dubai Tour

Dubai is often associated with its ultra-modern skyline, luxurious shopping centers, and man-made marvels. Yet, hidden just beyond the city lies the vast and breathtaking Arabian desert, offering travelers a rare opportunity to experience a more traditional side of the region. One of the most authentic and peaceful ways to explore this natural beauty is through a camel ride desert safari Dubai tour.

Unlike high-adrenaline desert safaris that involve dune bashing and quad biking, the camel ride safari offers a slower, more immersive experience. It connects travelers to the history, culture, and rhythm of the desert in a way that machines simply can’t replicate. If you're considering booking a camel ride desert safari Dubai, here’s exactly what to expect on this serene and culturally rich journey.

1. Convenient Pickup and Transportation

Most camel ride desert safari Dubai tours start with convenient pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point within Dubai. Depending on your chosen tour operator, pickup times usually begin early in the morning or late in the afternoon, depending on whether you're booking a sunrise or sunset safari. These timings allow you to enjoy the desert when the temperatures are more comfortable and the lighting is ideal for photography.

You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned 4x4 vehicle to the desert, typically around 45 minutes to an hour away from the city. During the drive, you’ll gradually leave behind the urban scenery and approach the tranquil, golden sand dunes of the Arabian desert.

2. A Warm Welcome at the Desert Camp

Upon arrival at the desert site or traditional Bedouin-style camp, you’re typically welcomed with traditional Arabic hospitality—dates, qahwa (Arabic coffee), and a refreshing drink. The camp is designed to reflect traditional Emirati life, with low seating areas, cushions, and lanterns that create a calm, inviting atmosphere.

Some camel ride desert safari Dubai packages include time at the camp both before and after the ride, while others begin the camel ride shortly after arrival. In either case, you’ll get a chance to explore the camp and absorb the culture.

3. Introduction to the Camels

Camels, often referred to as the "ships of the desert," have been an essential part of Arabian life for centuries. These hardy animals were once the primary mode of transportation across the vast desert landscapes. Before the ride begins, you’ll have a chance to get acquainted with the camels, guided by experienced handlers.

You’ll learn how to mount the camel (which rises up from a sitting position), hold the reins, and sit comfortably during the ride. Tour operators take great care in ensuring the animals are treated ethically and that guests feel safe and confident before setting off.

4. The Camel Ride Experience

The highlight of the camel ride desert safari Dubai is, of course, the journey across the sand dunes on camelback. The pace is slow and rhythmic, allowing you to truly take in the natural beauty of your surroundings. You’ll pass undulating dunes, spot desert flora and fauna, and experience a silence that’s rare in the modern world.

Most camel rides last between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the package. Some tours even include longer treks that lead to a remote desert camp or viewpoint for a special sunset or sunrise experience.

Unlike other desert safaris, the focus here is on connection—with nature, with culture, and with the past.

5. Stunning Desert Scenery and Photography

As your camel sways gently over the golden dunes, you’ll witness some of the most stunning and peaceful desert landscapes in the region. Whether it’s the soft morning light of a sunrise tour or the deep reds and oranges of a desert sunset, the setting is ideal for photography.

Many tour operators offer to take professional photos of your ride, but you're also free to capture your own moments. The scenery provides a striking contrast to the city skyline you left behind, and the camel adds a unique touch to any photo album.

6. Optional Cultural Activities at the Camp

After your ride, you'll usually return to the desert camp for a range of optional cultural experiences, depending on your package. These often include:

• Henna painting

• Falconry displays

• Trying on traditional Emirati clothing for photos

• Shisha (in a designated area)

• Tea and snack tastings

These add a rich cultural layer to the camel ride desert safari Dubai, helping visitors understand the traditions of the UAE and the Bedouin way of life.

7. Traditional Dinner and Entertainment (Evening Tours)

If you’ve chosen an evening camel ride desert safari Dubai, your experience will often include a traditional BBQ dinner served at the camp. The buffet usually features a mix of Emirati and international cuisine, including grilled meats, rice dishes, salads, fresh breads, and desserts like dates and baklava.

Live entertainment may also be part of the evening, with performances such as:

• Tanoura dance

• Belly dancing

• Fire show

This transforms the safari into a complete evening experience, combining natural beauty with traditional Arabian hospitality.

8. Stargazing in the Desert

One of the most underrated aspects of a camel ride desert safari Dubai is the chance to enjoy a clear desert sky once the sun sets. Away from the city lights, the stars shine brightly, offering a rare opportunity for stargazing. Some tours even provide telescopes or guided astronomy sessions for those interested.

The peacefulness of the desert at night is the perfect way to end a day that’s been filled with discovery, reflection, and culture.

Final Thoughts

A camel ride desert safari Dubai is more than just a tourist activity—it’s a journey back in time. It offers a window into the traditional Bedouin lifestyle while allowing you to experience the breathtaking natural landscape of the Arabian desert at a gentle, contemplative pace.