In a surprising and unconventional rescue, two women who found themselves stranded in the Dubai desert received an unusual ride through an “Uber Camel” service.
The video, which quickly gained traction on Instagram, depicts the dramatic moment when the women, lost in the vast and arid sands, discovered an unconventional option on their Uber app after their vehicle broke down: a camel ride.
The incident reportedly took place at Al Badayer, a popular desert destination situated along the Dubai-Hatta Road. The two women, desperate for a way out of the expansive dunes, were taken aback when the camel appeared as a ride option on the app.
After booking the peculiar transport, their disbelief turned to amazement when a man arrived at the scene, leading a camel. Introducing himself as an “Uber Camel driver,” he explained his unique job to the curious passengers.
“What do you do for a living?” one of the women asked the man as he approached with the camel. “I drive Uber Camel. I help people who get lost,” he responded, with a tone that suggested this was just another day on the job.
The driver went on to elaborate that he specializes in aiding travelers who find themselves stuck in the desert, a situation not uncommon for those unprepared for the challenging conditions of the Arabian dunes.
As one of the women climbed onto the camel, her friend could be heard exclaiming in disbelief, “We actually got lost and ordered a camel!” The surreal nature of the situation, coupled with the uniqueness of the “Uber Camel” ride, captivated viewers of the video, leading to widespread sharing and comments.
Many people expressed amusement and intrigue over the concept of a camel being offered as a rescue option through a mobile app, blending modern technology with traditional desert transport.
While the viral video has left many social media users debating whether the “Uber Camel” is an actual service offered by the ride-hailing company or a playful stunt, it nonetheless sheds light on the region’s deep connection to its heritage.
Camels have long been an essential mode of transportation in the Arabian Peninsula, well before the advent of cars and roads. Even today, they are celebrated for their endurance and adaptability to desert environments.
Al Badayer, where the incident occurred, is known for its challenging terrain and massive dunes, attracting off-road enthusiasts, tourists, and thrill-seekers.
However, the area’s remote location can pose risks to the unprepared, making alternative forms of rescue, such as camel riding, potentially valuable for those in distress.
Dubai’s tourism scene often blends the ancient with the modern, offering experiences that range from luxury vehicles to desert safaris, where camels remain a popular attraction.
While this latest incident may have been out of the ordinary, it highlights a creative approach to navigating the desert’s unforgiving landscape.
The story of the “Uber Camel” is still evolving, with many curious about whether the service could indeed become an official option for adventurous travelers in the future.
For now, it serves as a reminder that when in the desert, sometimes the old ways of travel are the most dependable.