The dromedary camel occupies arid regions of the Middle East through northern India and arid regions in Africa, most notably, the Sahara Desert. The hump is composed of fat bound together by fibrous tissue, acting as food storage in times of need. The size of the hump varies with the nutritional status of the camel, becoming smaller to non-existent during times of starvation. The lips of the dromedary camel are thickened to allow consumption of course, thorny plants. Dromedaries are typically caramel brown or sandy brown in color, however, shades can range from almost black to nearly white.
Hair length is longer on the throat, shoulder, and hump areas.
The feet of dromedaries are pad-shaped and adapted for traveling on sand. They can be easily injured on sharp stones and are unsuitable for slippery or muddy conditions. Additionally, male dromedaries have an inflatable soft palate which is used to attract females. The dromedary camel is a herbivore. When foraging, camels tend to spread over large areas and select only a few leaves from each plant.