How to experience horse-drawn carriage rides in Dubai?

In a city of futuristic skylines and luxury vehicles, horse-drawn carriage rides offer a softer pace. These experiences are not widespread, but they do exist—carefully preserved in spaces that honor tradition. You’ll often find them during cultural festivals, heritage exhibitions, or as part of curated resort offerings. Unlike European cities where carriages move through urban centers, Dubai reserves them for enclosed, scenic settings. The goal isn’t transport—it’s immersion. The slow clatter of hooves, the scent of leather and hay, and the subtle creak of the carriage all work together to slow the world around you.

You’ll most likely find them during seasonal cultural events

The UAE calendar is rich with heritage-themed events, and that’s when these rides become accessible. Dubai Shopping Festival, Al Marmoom Heritage Festival, and some National Day celebrations feature horse-drawn carriages as part of reenactments or cultural storytelling. At these events, rides are often free or included with entry, but lines can form quickly. These are also moments when locals dress in traditional attire, so being respectful of photography norms and personal space is key. A ride through a desert-styled village as the call to prayer rises in the background becomes an experience stitched into memory.

Resorts and private venues offer tailored experiences

Certain high-end resorts in areas like Al Qudra or Jumeirah may offer private carriage rides for guests. These are often marketed for romantic evenings, wedding entrances, or family-friendly experiences. While not always advertised online, concierge desks can provide details. Unlike crowded events, these rides offer more privacy and can include extras like rose arrangements or sparkling drinks. Some packages even allow you to combine the ride with an Emirati dinner under the stars. The horses are well-groomed, the drivers wear traditional attire, and the route is quiet, scenic, and brief—but powerful.

You’ll need to ask the right questions before booking

If you’re planning a ride, especially for a special occasion, it’s worth confirming a few essentials. Ask about the length of the route, the condition and care of the horses, and the type of carriage used. Some rides are symbolic—lasting ten minutes within a resort garden—while others follow a longer path along palm groves or waterfront edges. Not all operators advertise openly, so contacting them through social platforms or WhatsApp is common practice in the UAE. And if you’re planning a proposal or surprise event, many providers can accommodate discreet coordination.

Dubai prioritizes animal welfare—choose providers that align

The UAE enforces regulations regarding the ethical treatment of animals, and Dubai’s municipal authorities monitor equine health closely. That said, the responsibility still lies with the rider. Avoid operators who offer rides in extreme heat, or those who push animals for extended hours. Reputable services limit rides to cooler hours—early morning or after dusk—and always provide shaded rest areas and water. Watching how a horse is treated before and after the ride tells you everything. When in doubt, choose venues associated with equestrian centers or resorts with a good track record in horse care.

Timing and season make all the difference

While Dubai is sunny year-round, heat and humidity shape the outdoor experience. November to March offers the most comfortable temperatures for open-air carriage rides. If you’re visiting in summer, rides may be suspended or moved indoors. Some venues offer night rides with decorative lights and cooler air. Ramadan, with its quieter pace and reflective mood, is another period when traditional experiences like this hold deeper meaning. Always check ahead, since these experiences are often paused during certain public holidays or maintenance periods.

Not every ride is about luxury—some are rooted in nostalgia

It’s important to know that not all carriage rides are wrapped in velvet or part of high-end packages. Some are simple, made of wood and iron, with minimal decoration. These evoke a different kind of charm—the memory of desert trade routes, family gatherings, or market days from decades ago. Children in these rides ask questions their parents can answer. Elders sit quietly, remembering. As an expat or visitor, sharing this space respectfully means observing more than photographing. Letting silence stretch for a moment during the ride deepens the experience.

These rides are part of a larger storytelling effort

Horse-drawn carriages in Dubai often exist as pieces in a larger cultural mosaic. They complement falconry shows, traditional music performances, or storytelling tents. Booking a ride without understanding this context may lead to disappointment. These aren’t tourist amusement rides—they’re heritage markers. Often, the coachman will share small anecdotes, maybe in Arabic, maybe through gestures. Watching, listening, and participating without haste turns a short journey into something layered and rich. You leave not just with pictures but with the scent of oud, hay, and date syrup in your memory.

Booking in groups may unlock access

Many venues reserve carriage rides for private bookings or groups, especially during high demand. If you’re traveling with friends or family, mention the group size when inquiring. Some places accommodate group ride rotations, while others might offer shared experiences with alternating turns. Group bookings also allow for more customization—music, floral arrangements, or even signage on the carriage. For cultural centers, larger parties may be prioritized for scheduling, especially if part of an educational visit. Planning ahead ensures that everyone gets their moment without the stress of long queues.

You won’t find these rides everywhere—so don’t chase them blindly

Horse-drawn carriages in Dubai are not a daily sight, nor are they plastered on every tourist brochure. And that’s a good thing. Their rarity keeps them meaningful. Ask at your hotel concierge, look through heritage festival programs, and reach out to local Emirati-led tourism initiatives. Avoid asking for rides on the spot at malls or parks—it’s not part of daily entertainment culture. When you do find a ride, lean in. Feel the leather of the seat. Listen to the steady breath of the horse. And watch the city blur behind you in a way you’ve never seen before.

This guide was written by the www.few.ae team, compiled through field visits, festival observations, and direct conversations with heritage coordinators in Dubai.