For those visiting Dubai, a unique and authentic experience awaits in the form of camel riding.
This traditional activity is highly popular among tourists as it provides an enjoyable way to explore stunning landscapes while also getting insight into ancient Bedouin culture.
With camels being used mostly for tourism purposes nowadays, they have become an integral part of the city’s tourist industry.
If you’re looking for places to go camel riding or advice on how best to enjoy this exciting adventure in Dubai.
Here we provide helpful information about some great locations and tips that will make your ride more memorable!
Popular Camel Riding Places in Dubai
Dubai is renowned for its expansive deserts and dunes, providing an ideal environment to ride a camel.
Tourists can enjoy this activity at several prominent places in Dubai, such as:
1. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is a 225-square-kilometer protected area located just an hour’s drive from Dubai city.
The desert is home to many plants and animals, including the Arabian oryx.
Tourists can experience a unique adventure with camel riding safaris that include guided tours through the desert followed by traditional Bedouin-style meals for breakfast or dinner.
Other activities include sandboarding, falconry, and henna painting for those wishing to explore this special reserve further.
2. Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack
Located 40 minutes from Dubai city, the Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack is renowned as the largest of its kind in the world.
Spanning an impressive 10 million square meters, this popular tourist destination offers a variety of camel riding experiences, such as short rides and longer desert safaris during weekends (winter months).
Aside from watching exciting races, visitors can also partake in other activities, including quad biking and archery, and savor traditional Emirati cuisine.
3. Dubai Camel Racing Club
A visit to the Dubai Camel Racing Club, located an hour’s drive from Dubai city, is a must for tourists looking to experience traditional camel racing and riding.
Here you can take part in guided desert safaris or shorter rides on these majestic animals.
On weekends during winter months, you will have the chance to watch some world-renowned racers compete against one another, that truly unforgettable!
4. The Camel Farm
The Camel Farm, a new and unique experience located in the Al Qudra Lakes/Al Marmoom area of Dubai on the E77 just outside city limits, is now open to the public.
Admission for general entry costs 40 AED, but you can opt for an additional 15 AED short camel ride or 100AED desert trek.
This activity offers a more peaceful experience in comparison to the excitement of traditional desert safaris like dune bashing and quad biking.
At the same time, visitors can still enjoy interacting with camels; for example, by experiencing “camel hug therapy” or feeding baby goats!
5. Jumeirah Beach Residences, The Beach
If you’re looking for a convenient way to experience the iconic camel ride in Dubai, The Beach at Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR) is your best bet.
Located on the beachfront with amazing views of Ain Dubai and Palm Jumeirah, you can take a camel ride here for 50 AED per person plus 25 AED extra if you want photos taken during the journey.
No pre-booking is required. Just head to The Beach and look for brightly decorated camels waiting to be ridden!
Tips for Camel Riding in Dubai
For tourists looking to explore Dubai’s natural landscapes and cultural heritage, camel riding is a must-do activity.
To ensure that your experience is safe, enjoyable, and sustainable, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Dress Code and Appropriate Clothing
When visiting Dubai for camel riding, it is important to dress appropriately to have an enjoyable and safe experience.
Tourists should wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing covering their arms and legs to protect themselves from the heat of the sun and sand.
Closed-toe shoes such as sneakers or hiking boots are also recommended to ensure stability while on a camel’s back, thus avoiding injuries.
2. Safety Precautions While Camel Riding
Enjoy the thrill of camel riding safely by following a few simple precautions.
Wear protective gear like a helmet and avoid sudden movements or provoking the camels that may startle them.
To protect yourself from harsh sunlight, carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat while on your adventure.
For peace of mind when booking your experience in Dubai, use only licensed tour operators approved by the government.
Before making plans, you can find these companies listed on The Dubai Tourism Authority website.
3. Environmental Responsibility
As tourists partake in camel riding while visiting Dubai, it is essential to be aware of the effects this activity may have on the environment and wildlife.
The government has established numerous environmental conservation efforts to preserve its desert ecosystem, including safeguarding flora and fauna and promoting responsible tourism practices.
Therefore, visitors are urged to dispose of their trash properly and not disturb animal habitats when sightseeing.
Those interested should select tour operators who prioritize sustainable practices to support these preservation initiatives put forth by Dubai’s authorities.
In conclusion, camel riding in Dubai is a unique and exciting way for tourists to explore the city’s stunning deserts and landscapes.
Several popular destinations, such as the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack, and the Dubai Camel Racing Club, offer different experiences of this traditional activity.
Tourists must abide by appropriate dress codes, safety precautions, and environmental responsibility when engaging in camel rides.
To ensure compliance with regulations set out by local authorities, visitors should book their experience through reputable operators licensed by the government of Dubai.
Visitors can experience the best of this lively location if they go on a camel ride, explore its cultural heritage, and appreciate its incomparable natural beauty!
References:
- Dubai Travel Planner | Ride a Camel in Dubai – https://www.dubaitravelplanner.com/ride-a-camel-in-dubai/
- Platinum Heritage | Camel Safari in Dubai – https://www.platinum-heritage.com/blog/camel-safari-dubai
