Do I need to book camel rides in advance?

Yes. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve caps daily riders; book online at least 24 hours ahead to secure your slot.

Are camel rides suitable for children?

Children over 5 can ride alone; under 5 ride with an adult. All camps provide child-size saddles and helmets.

What should I wear for a camel ride?

Light, long clothing, closed shoes, sunglasses and SPF 50. Women may be offered an abaya to sit comfortably.

Is camel riding ethical in Dubai?

Licensed operators follow Dubai Tourism welfare rules: limited hours, vet checks, and shaded rest. Always choose permitted camps.

Can I ride a camel inside Dubai city?

Only quick photo rides at Global Village or the Camel Market; true desert rides require a 40–70 minute drive to the dunes.

Can You Ride Camels in Dubai 2026

a view of a city at night from across the water

Quick answer

Yes, camel riding is still widely available in Dubai in 2026. Licensed tours at Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Marmoom and Al Lahbab offer 15- to 45-minute rides starting from AED 120. Always choose operators registered with Dubai Tourism to guarantee animal welfare and insurance.

Where can you ride camels in Dubai?

The three most popular areas are the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR), the Al Marmoom Bedouin Camp, and the dunes near Al Lahbab. Each site sits 40–70 minutes from Downtown Dubai and runs daily sunset and sunrise sessions. DDCR limits visitor numbers, so rides feel less crowded and the herd is better managed.

Inside Dubai city limits

Only two camel-riding venues remain inside Dubai: the Camel Company at Global Village (seasonal, October–April) and the Dubai Camel Market in Al Lisaili. Both charge AED 20–30 for a quick photo or 5-minute loop, but they are not full desert experiences.

How much does a camel ride cost in 2026?

15-minute ride: AED 120–150
30-minute ride: AED 180–220
45-minute sunset ride with dinner: AED 350–450

Prices include basic refreshments, headscarf, and liability insurance. Children under 10 ride free when sharing with an adult. Verify current fee with Dubai Tourism before booking.

Step-by-step: how to book a camel ride

Decide on your preferred duration and budget.
Check Dubai Tourism’s approved operator list on their website.
Book online at least 24 hours ahead for DDCR slots; same-day is possible at Al Marmoom.
Receive WhatsApp confirmation with GPS pin and driver number.
Arrive 15 minutes early for registration and safety briefing.

Common mistakes visitors make

Choosing an unlicensed roadside camp that undercuts prices but skips insurance.
Wearing shorts; loose trousers and closed shoes are required.
Feeding camels without permission — the animals follow strict diets.
Forgetting sunscreen and water; desert wind masks the heat.

Ethical and safety tips

Look for the official Dubai Tourism desert permit sticker on the vehicle. Ethical camps limit rides to six minutes per camel per hour and provide shaded rest areas. Never ride an animal showing ribs or open sores; report it via the Dubai Tourism hotline. Carry AED 50 in cash for tips to the cameleer, but only after the ride.

Combining camel rides with other desert activities

Most packages bundle camel rides with sandboarding, henna, and a BBQ dinner under the stars. If you want stargazing, choose the DDCR “Astronomy Night” package (AED 650). For photographers, the 05:30 sunrise ride at Al Marmoom offers golden-hour light and fewer crowds.

Key takeaway

Camel riding in Dubai remains safe, accessible, and well-regulated in 2026 when you book through Dubai Tourism-approved operators. A 30-minute ride costs roughly AED 200, takes you into the golden dunes, and pairs perfectly with a sunset dinner. Choose licensed camps, respect the animals, and you’ll leave with memorable photos and a clear conscience.