Al ain: Under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the 2nd Al Ain Camel Racing Festival is set to take place at Al Rawda Camel Racetrack in Al Ain Region. The festival, scheduled from 3rd July to 9th October 2026, is organized by the Presidential Camels and Camel Racing Affairs Centre with the supervision of the Camel Racing Association.
According to Emirates News Agency, the festival will include three preliminary rounds in July, August, and September, culminating in final competitions in early October. During these finals, top-performing camels and distinguished participants will be recognized. The program features 605 races across various camel age categories, including Fattameen, Haqayeq, Laqaya, Itha'a, Thanaya, Houl, and Zomool. All races will be held in the morning over varying distances, reflecting the technical progression and competitive structure in camel racing.
Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President and Chairman of the Camel Racing Association, expressed pride in the festival's second edition. He praised the leadership's support for this national heritage event and the patronage of Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He emphasized that the festival has become a strategic milestone in the development of camel racing in the UAE, enhancing the participation of camel owners, particularly young people, in this heritage sector. This contributes to the sustainability of Emirati heritage and ensures its legacy for future generations.
The inaugural Al Ain Camel Racing Festival was a significant success, with notable local and regional participation and organizational excellence. It strengthened the prominence of camel racing as integral to the UAE's cultural and sporting heritage, reinforcing the importance of preserving this component of the nation's heritage. The festival also provides younger generations with opportunities to learn about the sport and participate in its competitions and events.
