Camel Riding in Doha

If you’re looking for a memorable experience while in Qatar, why not try camel riding? These one-humped creatures are placid and friendly, and the perfect companions to pace through the desert, admiring the vast, open landscape.

Camel riding tours from Doha also include a multitude of other unique and electrifying activities, such as dune bashing, and sandboarding.

These excursions are far from boring, and experiencing the golden dunes from a camel’s back is bound to be the highlight of your trip to the up-and-coming Arabian destination.

Here's all you need to know about camel riding, one of the most fun outdoor activities from Doha.

What are the best camel riding tours from Doha?

Desert safari

Gain a whirlwind introduction to the Qatari desert in this action-packed tour.

Itinerary

To begin this camel riding tour from Doha, you’ll hop into a 4x4 for a thrilling ride through the desert. Stop at one of Qatar’s numerous pristine beaches to dip your toes in the ocean or snap a spectacular shot.

Here, you can climb aboard a camel and cross the bay the local way. Your driver will take you dune bashing — an exhilarating drive over the sand mounds that form the desert, at varying speeds.

Once you’re deep within the desert, you’ll have the opportunity to try sandboarding — the Middle Eastern alternative to snowboarding — down the staggering dunes, which range up to 60 meters high.

The last stop on your excursion is at the Inland Sea, where you can admire the natural phenomenon up close and gain panoramic views over Saudi Arabia.

Nighttime desert safari

If you want a taste of Arabian magic, select your Doha camel riding tour for once the sun has set over its lofty dunes.

Itinerary

Travel to Sealine Beach — known for its shimmering sands and water sports — for a tranquil moment staring out to sea.

Then, journey into the desert to a local camel camp, where you can clamber onto a four-legged friend and pace along the golden stretch at your leisure.

Away from the light pollution of the city, you’ll be blessed with an inky stretch of sky, filled with millions of glittering stars.

Participate in dune bashing, which is even more exciting at night when your sight is hindered, before jumping on a sandboard and sliding along the dunes in the silence of the desert.

Finally, enjoy witnessing the Inland Sea without hordes of tourists around, away from the scorching heat of the day.

South coast tour

Swap sandboarding for souqs on this excursion that meanders along the south coast.

Itinerary

This camel riding tour from Doha takes you out of the capital and journeys to the historic Al Wakkrah Fort. Built in the early 20th century upon the ruins of a much older fort, the monument has been used as a police station and barracks since.

While visitors are not permitted to step inside its stone walls, they can admire the whitewashed architecture of its exterior.

Head to one of Qatar’s immaculate beaches for a camel ride along the shoreline. Learn about Qatar’s history of fishing at the Wakkrah Port before getting swept up in the mania of Wakrah Souq.

An enchanting market lined with shops selling juicy local dates, handcrafted bedouin rugs and striking jewelry, Wakrah Souq is the final destination on your tour.

Camel race track tour in Qatar

Sports fans and competitive souls will throw themselves into the excitement of a camel race on this half-day excursion.

Itinerary

Begin your tour by traveling to Al Shahaniya — Qatar’s most popular race track — to learn about camel racing over the centuries. Give the charming competitors a lucky pat on the back before settling down and preparing for the race.

Take a shot at guessing the winning camel and grow tense as you watch them participate in a knuckle-biting race for the prestigious Golden Sword award.

Hop into your vehicle and drive alongside the humped mammals to get a feel of how fast they can run.

How much do camel riding tours from Doha cost?

Camel tours from Doha that explore the Al Shahaniya race track cost between US$60 and US$130 per person. Those on the higher end of this range take place in a private group.

Camel riding tours from Doha that include dune bashing, sandboarding and the Inland Sea cost between US$80, and US$100 per person. If you select a nighttime tour of this nature, you’ll pay upwards of US$110 each.

Combination tours that include dinner cost roughly US$250 per person and last all day. Excursions that journey along the south coast of the Arab nation also cost approximately US$250 per person.

What is included?

Camel riding trips from Doha vary significantly in what they offer. Some include a myriad of compelling activities, such as dune bashing, sandboarding and of course, a camel ride. Others include a meal, as well as traditional tea in the desert.

While many excursions include a camel ride in the overall price of the tour, some require you to pay an additional expense if you wish to participate in the activity.

Where does it start?

The majority of camel riding tours from Doha will provide a convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service from your accommodation in the city. Several operators also allow you to select pickup from the airport or port instead.

You can view the departure details of each individual tour before booking to assess whether it works with your itinerary.

How long does it last?

Generally, camel riding tours from Doha last between 4 and 7 hours, depending on the activities you select. However, combination trips and full-day safaris last between 6, and 7 hours.

It's worth bearing in mind that regardless of the tour you choose, your camel ride will last just a few minutes.

When is the best time for a camel riding tour from Doha?

Opt for an early morning or late afternoon camel riding excursion from Doha in order to avoid the most intense Middle Eastern heat that peaks around midday.

The winter months between November and March are the prime time for booking your trip to Qatar as the weather cools significantly, and you can enjoy balmy conditions.

Are there any combo available?

Full day desert safari with dinner

Spend your day racing through the desert safari at high speeds, pacing across the sand on a camel’s back and swimming in the flourishing waters of the Inland Sea.

Once the sun has set over the horizon, you’ll journey to a traditional Bedouin desert camp to gaze at the glowing constellations scattered across the night skies.

Here, you’ll enjoy an al-fresco barbecue dinner and relax as you reminisce on your memorable day.

Is it safe?

Camel riding has existed in Qatar for centuries and is considered a safe activity. You’ll have a guide walking beside you throughout the duration of the ride, and they’ll also help you to mount your mammal.

However, pregnant women and those with back conditions are generally advised against participating.

Are children allowed?

Children over 3 are welcome to join a camel riding trip from Doha and are sure to enjoy the plethora of activities included.

However, those under 18 are not permitted to ride a camel on their own. It is up to the parent or guardian to decide whether they wish to mount a camel and participate in a ride alongside their child.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Qatar generally has a hot and dry climate. However, if the conditions prevent you from participating in your camel riding tour, your excursion will be rebooked for another date. If this isn’t convenient, you can request a full refund instead.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Doha?

• Sandboarding
• Quad tours
• Buggy tours

Travel tips

• If you wish to see a spot of camel racing, book your tour to the Al Shahaniya race track during February or March when the competition reaches its peak.
• Leave your valuables at your accommodation before departing on a camel-riding tour from Doha. This is because possessions can be extremely hard to find if dropped in the sand.
• Wear long, loose clothing on your excursion to protect yourself from the heat and respect local customs.