Experience the Best of Tradition and Thrill in One Unforgettable Adventure
Adventure Meets Tradition in the Heart of the Desert
Dubai’s desert tours offer an exhilarating combination of adventure and cultural immersion. For travelers looking to enjoy high-speed thrills along with authentic local experiences, buggy tour packages have become a top choice. But a common question arises for many: Are camel rides included with buggy tours in Dubai?
The short answer is yes—many dune buggy tour in Dubai do include camel rides, especially those offered by licensed and reputable operators. While buggy rides provide the modern adrenaline rush, camel rides offer a peaceful, nostalgic journey through the desert, connecting guests with centuries of Arabian heritage.
Let’s explore what’s typically included in these tour packages, what to expect during the camel ride, and how to choose the best experience for your needs.
What Exactly Is Included in a Buggy Tour Package?
Buggy tours in Dubai vary in length, format, and pricing, but most include a combination of action and culture. While the main highlight is the self-drive dune buggy experience—where you navigate the golden sand dunes in powerful, off-road machines like the Polaris RZR or Can-Am Maverick—tour operators generally pair this activity with a few traditional desert experiences, camel riding being one of the most popular among them.
A standard buggy tour package usually includes:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in a 4×4 vehicle
- Safety briefing and gear for the buggy ride
- A guided dune buggy session (30 minutes to 2 hours)
- Sandboarding on the dunes
- A short camel ride, usually lasting 5 to 10 minutes
- Water and refreshments
- Photo opportunities with the dunes and camels
Some premium packages also include extended camel treks, BBQ dinners, live entertainment, henna painting, and shisha lounges in a desert camp setting.
What Is the Camel Ride Like?
Camel rides offer a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline rush of dune buggies. While the buggy ride gets your heart racing as you speed over steep dunes, the camel ride is all about slowing down and soaking in the desert’s beauty.
The ride typically begins near the desert camp or a designated camel zone, where experienced handlers help you mount and guide the camel. These majestic animals are well-trained, and their rhythmic stride offers a surprisingly smooth ride once you’re seated.
Though short, this ride gives you a taste of what desert travel was like for Bedouins before the modern era. It’s a simple, serene moment—often during sunset—perfect for photography and cultural appreciation.
For those who want more than a quick photo-op, some tour operators offer longer camel treks, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, where you can explore deeper areas of the desert in traditional fashion. These may need to be booked as an add-on or part of a customized package.
Why Camel Rides Are Included in Most Packages
Camel riding is more than just an activity—it’s a link to the UAE’s heritage. Including a camel ride within a buggy tour package adds depth to the experience, offering a balanced mix of modern thrill and cultural authenticity.
Tour operators understand that visitors come to Dubai not just for adventure but also for the chance to experience the unique traditions of the Arabian Peninsula. Including a camel ride gives guests an all-encompassing desert journey without needing to book multiple tours separately.
Additionally, camel rides are suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making them a great complement to the more physically demanding buggy rides.
Is the Camel Ride Optional?
In most packages, camel rides are optional. You’re not obligated to participate if you’re uncomfortable, tired, or simply prefer to watch and take photos. However, given how brief and gentle the rides typically are, most guests choose to try it.
If you’d rather skip the ride and spend more time in your buggy or relaxing at the camp, you’re welcome to do so. Just inform your guide ahead of time, and they’ll adjust your schedule accordingly.
For those wanting a more immersive camel experience, consider asking your tour provider for an upgraded package or private session. Some tours are built specifically around camel trekking, offering tea breaks, falconry demonstrations, and storytelling under the stars.
Are Camel Rides Safe?
Yes, camel rides in Dubai are safe when conducted by licensed and experienced providers. Camels used in tours are domesticated and trained for tourism purposes. Handlers are on site to assist with mounting, dismounting, and leading the animal during the walk.
The camels move slowly and calmly, and seats are fitted with cushions and back support for comfort. Most riders, even those with no prior animal experience, find the activity easy and enjoyable.
Still, pregnant women and guests with certain medical conditions are often advised not to participate. It’s always wise to consult your tour operator about safety guidelines if you have any health concerns.
How to Book a Buggy Tour That Includes Camel Riding
Most reputable dune buggy operators in Dubai clearly outline their package inclusions. When browsing tour options, look for packages that list “camel ride included” or offer it as part of the itinerary.
Companies like BNB Travel and Tours, for example, specialize in desert adventures and offer customizable packages that include buggy rides, camel riding, sandboarding, and cultural camp experiences—all in one seamless tour.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons (November to March), as combo packages with buggy and camel rides are in high demand.
If you’re interested in private experiences, some providers offer exclusive couple’s or family tours with extended camel treks, professional photography, and even romantic sunset dinners in the desert. These experiences can be tailored to suit birthdays, anniversaries, or surprise proposals.
What Else Can You Expect During the Tour?
Many tours with camel rides and dune buggies also include access to a traditional Bedouin-style desert camp. Here, guests can unwind and enjoy:
- Live cultural performances like belly dancing, Tanoura spinning, and fire shows
- Henna painting for women
- Arabic coffee and sweets
- BBQ dinner buffets with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options
- Shisha (hookah) lounges in select areas
The camp provides a relaxed setting after the high-speed action of the buggy ride and adds a magical, festive atmosphere to the overall desert safari experience.
Final Thoughts: Tradition and Adventure in Harmony
Camel rides are indeed included in many buggy tour packages in Dubai—and they’re much more than a bonus. They provide an authentic touch to your desert experience, giving you a peaceful moment to connect with the region’s roots after the excitement of speeding across the dunes.
Whether you’re an adventure lover, a cultural enthusiast, or a first-time visitor wanting to experience everything the desert has to offer, these combined packages deliver unbeatable value. From thrilling self-drive buggy sessions to serene camel rides and vibrant evening shows, you’ll leave with memories as rich and dynamic as the desert itself.
Looking to book your desert adventure? Choose a provider that offers both excitement and tradition—and ride the best of both worlds.
