Camel Racing - United Arab Emirates

Camel racing was an event I absolutely wanted to see during my trip to the United Arab Emirates. I must admit that until recently, this wasn’t an attraction I associated with the country. After all, I think most people view the UAE primarily through the lens of modern cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi. However, camels are an integral part of the region’s culture.

What’s more, I must confess that when heading to this event near Ras Al Khaimah airport, I didn’t do my homework properly. I assumed the race would take place on a traditional track surrounded by grandstands. It turned out that camel racing operates by its own unique rules, unfamiliar both to me and to Google Maps. This led to an unexpected situation where I suddenly found myself on a collision course with a dozen or so cars. How did this happen?

Let’s start with a bit of history. For centuries, camels have played a key role in the lives of desert dwellers. They served not only as a means of transport but also as a source of food. Hence, in the UAE, camels are rightfully considered a symbol of wealth. Camel racing has been organized on the Arabian Peninsula since the Middle Ages and is an inseparable part of traditional customs. As a result, it is an incredible spectacle that is deeply rooted in the Bedouin heritage and the culture of the United Arab Emirates.

The races involve single-humped camels—dromedaries. The minimum age for participating camels is 3 years, while the maximum is 8 years. Each camel undergoes anti-doping tests. Up to 100 camels can participate in the races, which are held every 15 minutes, with each lap covering a 10-kilometer track. Typically, each race includes 10 or more camels.

The races take place between October and April, from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM, when the temperatures are bearable. Each camel is adorned with colorful blankets.

Until recently, children served as jockeys in camel races, mainly because their lightweight didn’t hinder the camels’ speed. Unfortunately, this sport was very dangerous, and many children suffered injuries. It’s worth to add that camels can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h over longer distances and up to 65 km/h in short sprints. For this reason, in 2002, the UAE became the first country to ban children under 15 from participating in the races. Instead, robotic jockeys were introduced—lightweight, remotely controlled devices equipped with heart rate sensors and GPS, allowing trainers to monitor the camels’ health and pace.

Using these robots, trainers can cheer on the camels or give them commands. To make real-time adjustments to their runs, trainers need constant visual contact with the animals. Therefore, the racetrack is divided into three sections. The central, fenced area is designated for the camels, while the outer lanes are for trainers driving alongside in their vehicles. This was the small detail that inadvertently put me on a collision course with a dozen or so SUVs. Flashing my headlights or honking didn’t help; I had to concede and pull over.

Camel racing is more than just a sport—it’s a blend of tradition and modernity. For Emiratis, it’s a symbol of national pride, while for tourists, it’s a way to experience the rich culture of this country.