The Ultimate Guide to UAE’s Thrilling Camel Race Dubai

So… camels sprinting across the desert with tiny robots on their backs? Yup, that’s a thing. But before you think this is just the UAE’s take on futuristic animal sports, let’s rewind a few centuries and meet the real pioneers—desert-dwelling tribes who turned racing into a ritual.

From Bedouin Beginnings to Desert Showdowns

Camel racing in the UAE isn’t all dust trails and million-dirham trophies (though that part doesn’t hurt). It began with the Bedouins, who saw camels not just as companions but as lifelines—carrying water, goods, families, and the occasional sulking child across endless dunes. During festivals and weddings, these tribes turned practical beasts into pride-fueled racers, and just like that, UAE traditional camel races were born.

These weren’t flashy events. There were no stadiums, no schedules, no drone shots—just honor, adrenaline, and a whole lot of sand. Winning meant more than just bragging rights; it symbolized endurance, resilience, and a deep bond between humans and animals. In other words, it wasn’t just sport—it was soul.

The Glow-Up: From Tribal Track Days to National Icons

Fast forward to the late 20th century, and what used to be friendly tribal sprints evolved into full-blown spectacles backed by the state. Recognizing camel racing as one of the most treasured traditional sports in the Emirates, the UAE government rolled out structured leagues, national events, and purpose-built venues like Al Marmoom Camel Race Track in Dubai and Al Wathba Camel Race Track in Abu Dhabi.

These aren’t just tracks—they’re living monuments to a culture that knows how to modernize without losing its roots. At Al Marmoom camel racing, you’ll find everything from cheering locals sipping gahwa to VIP lounges for race-day royalty. And while the high-tech elements (like remote-controlled robot jockeys) often steal headlines, they’re just one part of a much bigger picture—one of preservation, pride, and progress.

“When we replaced child jockeys with robots, we preserved our values while protecting our future.”
— UAE Camel Racing Federation official

A Celebration of Identity, Not Just Sport

Sure, watching a camel race in Dubai is a bucket-list-worthy thrill. But it’s also a deeply immersive cultural experience. Whether you’re attending the Dubai Camel Racing Festival or the Al Marmoom Heritage Festival, you’ll witness a uniquely Emirati fusion of past and present. From tribal flags waving over the stands to modern SUVs lining the track, this is where tradition rides side-by-side with innovation.

And for many Emiratis, these races represent more than entertainment—they’re expressions of national pride. Every cheer, every song, every step those camels take echoes a story passed down for generations.

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: Want to feel like a local? Head to Al Marmoom camel race track before sunrise during the UAE camel racing season (October to March). Bring a light shawl for the desert chill, grab some luqaimat and gahwa, and chat with a camel trainer. You’ll walk away with stories no guidebook can offer.

Inside the Track: What Makes Camel Racing Unique

Let’s set the scene: roaring SUVs, dust clouds swirling, camels swaying like they’re in a trance, and tiny techy jockeys riding shotgun. If you thought this would be a gentler version of horse racing with a desert twist, think again. Camel racing in UAE is a genre of its own—equal parts adrenaline, tradition, and sci-fi marvel.

Horses Gallop. Camels… Glide?

First things first—camels don’t gallop like horses. They groove. It’s a loping, hypnotic sway that looks like it belongs in a desert dance-off. These majestic creatures race on sandy tracks like Al Marmoom Camel Race Track and Al Wathba Camel Race Track, covering distances between 2 to 10 kilometers. That’s not a sprint—it’s a sand-surfing marathon.

And starting gates? Forget it. These camels begin in a gentle rolling shuffle, not a photo-finish lineup. The unpredictability adds a raw, unscripted charm that makes every camel race in Dubai feel like a one-of-a-kind showdown.

The Rise of Robot Jockeys

As mentioned earlier, robot jockey camel racing is one of the UAE’s proudest innovations. These pint-sized metal riders have replaced human jockeys, ensuring both safety and consistency in modern racing. Remotely controlled from accompanying 4×4 vehicles, they come equipped with GPS trackers, speakers, and lightweight riding whips.

It’s surreal watching a Dubai camel race unfold—camels dashing ahead while SUVs race alongside, trainers barking instructions like desert commanders directing a squadron.

“When you see a line of camels charging with 4x4s zooming beside them, it’s not chaos—it’s camel culture at 40 km/h!”
— Local racing fan, hoarse from cheering

Elite Treatment: These Camels Live Like Athletes

Believe it or not, these camels have better diets than most of us. Think dates, oats, honey, goat’s milk, and custom grains. Some even get spa treatments and swim sessions. Yes, the traditional sports in Emirates have gone full luxury.

The breed? Mostly the Arabian dromedary, especially the Al-Arabiat line—lean, fast, and born for the track. Training starts early, often around age two, and includes conditioning, pacing, and rest cycles like any Olympic regimen.

Speed Stats & Race Formats

We won’t repeat ourselves in the upcoming sections, so here’s your one-stop breakdown of how fast these desert racers go and what kind of race formats to expect:

With speeds hitting up to 65 km/h, watching a camel race in UAE is like watching a living sandstorm—fast, fierce, and blink-and-you-miss-it exciting.

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: For the best views, skip the finish line. Park yourself at a curve midway down the track at Al Marmoom camel racing grounds. That’s where the magic happens—camels at full sway, robots whirring, and trainers shouting from SUVs. Pro tip: dust makes your photos look dramatic, so don’t be afraid to get a little sandy.

Planning Your Visit to UAE’s Camel Races

Thinking of checking out a camel race in Dubai or somewhere else in the UAE? Excellent choice. But don’t just roll up at noon expecting a front-row seat and a parade of camels—this isn’t that kind of party. Camel racing is an early morning cultural experience, and timing it right can make all the difference between “wow” and “what did I just miss?”

The Prime Racing Season: October to March

Let’s start with the golden window: October through March. That’s when the UAE camel racing season hits its stride. Mornings are cool, the sand’s not sizzling hot, and the camels? They’re ready to strut their stuff. This is hands down the best time to watch camel racing in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond.

During these months, keep an eye out for big-ticket events like the Al Marmoom Heritage Festival and Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Camel Race Festival—they don’t just feature racing but also heritage zones, local crafts, and food stalls that turn the track into a cultural playground.

Race Day Schedule: Don’t Hit Snooze

Yes, it’s early. Yes, it’s worth it.

Here’s what a typical camel racing in UAE morning looks like:

You’ll see SUVs tailing camels along the track, trainers calling out, and the crowd buzzing with excitement. The vibe is part desert rally, part family picnic—making it one of the most unique family activities in the UAE.

Best Viewing Spots & What to Pack

Let’s break down where to go and why each track is worth visiting:

Packing Checklist:

• Comfy shoes – sand is fun, until it’s in your shoes
• Sunglasses, hat & sunscreen – desert sun doesn’t play nice
• Binoculars – trust us, this changes the game
• Camera or phone with zoom – for those mid-race action shots
• Reusable water bottle – hydration = happiness
• Light jacket – those early desert breezes can surprise you

While camel race in UAE venues are generally free to enter, Al Marmoom Camel Race Track and a few others offer VIP packages ranging from AED 45–90 ($12–25 USD). You’ll get shaded seats, snacks, and sometimes camel milk tastings. Standard standing areas? Totally free and just as fun.

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: Want more than just a spectator experience? Several eco-tourism operators offer early morning guided camel race tours that include pickup, breakfast in a traditional majlis, and a sneak peek into the camel stables. It’s like going backstage at a cultural concert—only the stars spit a little.

Behind the Racing Scene: Where Champions Are Made

If you think camel racing in the UAE is just camels sprinting with robots on their backs while everyone cheers from SUVs—you’re only seeing the finish line. Behind every blink-and-you-miss-it race is a backstage world filled with elite bloodlines, million-dirham price tags, luxury training camps, and an animal care protocol that rivals professional sports leagues.

The Elite Racing Camels: Breeding, Training & Valuation

Let’s start with the stars: racing camels aren’t your average desert roamers. These are meticulously bred athletes—sleek, strong, and swift—descendants of pure lines like Al-Arabiat and Asayel, known across the Gulf for their unmatched speed and stamina.

How much are they worth? Top-tier racers can fetch up to AED 10 million (around $2.7 million USD). Yes, that’s villa-on-the-Palm territory.

“You can’t just buy a fast camel. You raise one like family.”
— Ahmed bin Sulayem, veteran camel trainer from Al Ain

Training starts as early as 18 months. We’re talking sunrise jogs through the dunes, swim sessions for muscle tone, treadmills for conditioning, and essential oil massages after workouts. Their diet? Premium: dates, milk, oats, honey—basically a spa retreat in feeding form.

Race Categories & Distances

Camels are grouped by age and matched to races that suit their development stage. Here’s your cheat sheet:

Most races are over in 5 to 10 minutes, just enough time to feel the thrill and snap some dusty action shots.

Camel Welfare Practices & Modern Regulations

Gone are the days of questionable racing ethics. The UAE has pioneered one of the most regulated camel racing industries in the world. While we’ve already touched on robot jockey camel racing, it’s worth noting that these changes came from a deep cultural shift—one focused on animal welfare and ethical racing.

Today, all racing camels undergo fitness screenings, are microchipped for health monitoring, and are supported by specialized camel hospitals and veterinary teams. The UAE Camel Racing Federation enforces strict guidelines on race lengths, training intensity, and even camel temperament.

“Our camels are athletes, not tools. Their health and happiness are top priority.”
— Spokesperson, UAE Camel Racing Federation

You won’t just see a race—you’ll witness the result of years of care, discipline, and deep-rooted respect for these majestic creatures.

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: Want an insider’s peek? Book a behind-the-scenes tour at Dubai Camel Racing Club during race season. You’ll walk through stables, talk to trainers, and maybe even score a selfie with a champion dromedary—just ask before getting too close. They’re faster than they look, even off-track.

Best Places to Watch Camel Races in the UAE

So, where should you stake out your spot to witness this high-octane, heritage-packed spectacle? The UAE doesn’t mess around when it comes to camel racing in UAE—there’s no shortage of impressive venues. But if you want the best sand-slinging action, these four tracks serve up everything from robot jockey camel racing to tribal pride with a side of gahwa.

Whether you’re into glitz or grassroots, here’s where the dromedary drama unfolds.

Al Marmoom Camel Race Track (Dubai)

If there’s a crown jewel of Dubai camel race culture, this is it. Just a short drive from the city’s iconic skyline, Al Marmoom Camel Race Track is where al marmoom camel racing turns tradition into a mega event. It hosts the Dubai Camel Racing Festival and is also the headquarters of the Dubai Camel Racing Club.

Expect powerful camels, buzzing SUVs, and races broadcast by drones—it’s desert drama turned up to ten.

“The energy at Al Marmoom is unreal. It’s like the camel Grand Prix with gahwa on the side!”
— British expat and first-time visitor

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: VIP areas offer shade, breakfast snacks, and great camera angles. Book in advance during festival weeks—they fill up faster than a camel on sprint mode.

Al Wathba Camel Race Track (Abu Dhabi)

Looking for a more traditional take on UAE traditional camel races? Al Wathba delivers. Nestled just east of the capital, this track emphasizes authenticity over fanfare. You won’t find flashing lights here, but you will find generous locals, well-trained camels, and a front-row seat to Emirati heritage in motion.

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: For the best viewing, head toward the back bend of the track where locals cluster. Great views, better stories.

Al Tallah Camel Race Course (Ajman)

Want a break from the tourist trail? Al Tallah Camel Race Course in Fujairah is as offbeat as it gets. There’s no massive grandstand or buzzing drone. Just the sound of camel hooves and heartfelt cheering from locals. It’s raw, real, and wildly underrated.

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: Show up early, smile lots, and you might be offered dates and a wild story about the time a neighbor’s camel outran a royal one.

Al Sawan Camel Race Track (Ras Al Khaimah)

Located in the foothills of RAK’s mountains, Al Sawan Camel Race Track offers a more intimate experience. While it’s primarily a training ground, it regularly hosts young camel races. It may not be as sprawling as Al Marmoom, but the atmosphere is charming and personal.

Note: There is no museum at this location, contrary to earlier references.

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: Combine your camel race visit with a trip to Jebel Jais or RAK’s ghost town. Desert thrills in the morning, mountain views in the afternoon—pure UAE magic.

What to Expect at a Race: Sand, Snacks & Spectacle

So, you’ve set your alarm for a time normally reserved for airport departures or questionable life choices—5:30 AM—and you’re headed to a camel race in the UAE. Bold move. But also a brilliant one, because this isn’t just a sporting event. It’s an immersive morning filled with roaring SUVs, clapping locals, and the occasional camel side-eye.

Let’s walk you through the entire vibe—so you don’t turn up in heels or try to pet a million-dirham dromedary without asking.

Early Morning Vibes: Camels, Coffee, and the Call to Race

Camel races kick off early—usually between 6:00 AM and 7:30 AM—to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and soft desert light. The scene is electric: camels pacing, robot jockeys getting secured, SUVs revving beside the track like it’s a motorsport showdown.

What sets this apart from any other race? The cultural experience. Think fresh gahwa brewing in traditional pots, locals handing out luqaimat with big smiles, and spontaneous stories flying around like sand in the breeze.

Popular eats at the track:

“I came for the race, stayed for the luqaimat… and now I want a camel.”
— Probably every first-time visitor

Dress Smart, Walk Easy: What to Wear & Bring

This isn’t a fashion show. It’s a desert track. Style should meet sand-savvy practicality. Closed shoes and lightweight clothes are your best friends.

Arrive at least 45 minutes early—not only to snag the best viewing spot but to settle in with your snacks before the action begins. Big events like the Dubai Camel Racing Festival draw crowds fast, so booking VIP passes in advance is smart.

Photo Etiquette: Snap Smart, Not Sneaky

Photography is welcome—but respectful behavior is expected.

• Camels & racing action? Snap away.
• Locals? Ask first—especially when photographing women or families.
• Flash photography? Avoid it near animals; startled camels = bad camel karma.
• Best shots? Hang out near the bend or finish line where action peaks.

How to Connect with Local Culture

This is one of the richest family activities in the UAE, not just for spectators but for locals, too. If you want to connect beyond the camera lens, be warm, curious, and respectful.

Pro tips for engaging with locals:

• Greet with “As-salaam alaikum”; reply with “Wa alaikum as-salaam.”
• Always accept coffee or dates offered—it’s a sign of hospitality.
• Use your right hand for eating and greetings.
• Don’t touch the camels without asking (yes, even the cute ones).
• Avoid questions about camel price tags or prize money—that’s considered personal.

Ask about the training, family traditions, or the camel’s name—you’ll often unlock heartfelt tales handed down through generations.

“My camel sulked for two days after a close loss. I told him—no more balaleet until you win!”
— RAK-based trainer, proudly serious

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: Want to instantly win hearts? Learn the word “Mabrook!” (Congrats!). Use it when a local’s camel wins a heat—it’s a small word that opens big doors. You might just get invited for a post-race coffee in a tent filled with stories and pride.

Major Racing Events and Competitions: Where Camels Become Legends

If regular races are the warm-up, the UAE’s camel racing festivals are the main act—the kind where winners become celebrities and camels earn more than your average CEO. These mega-events blend traditional sports in the Emirates with modern flair, featuring nail-biting races, cultural performances, and prize money that makes jaws drop faster than a startled camel.

Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Camel Race Festival

You know it’s serious when the name takes a breath to say. Hosted annually by the Dubai Camel Racing Club at Al Marmoom Camel Race Track, this is one of the most prestigious events in camel racing in the UAE.

What makes it a must-watch?

• Races span all major camel age categories: Ḥagayeg, Lagaya, Gadan, and Akbar
• It showcases both first-time racers and returning champions
• Beyond racing: you’ll catch tribal parades, Emirati music, and even camel beauty contests (yes, it’s real)

It’s not just about robot jockeys doing their high-tech thing—it’s a full-blown cultural showcase with fierce competition and tribal pride in every gallop.

“This is where camel legends are made. You don’t just win here—you’re remembered.”
— Veteran trainer, beaming beside his million-dirham racer

The Al Marmoom Festival and March Finals

If the Sheikh Hamdan Festival is the Super Bowl, then this is the season finale. Held every spring at Al Marmoom, the March Finals wrap up the UAE camel racing season with a bang—featuring only the best camels from weeks of qualifiers.

The races are divided by camel age and breed, with distances ranging up to 10 km. It’s where dust clouds meet drone footage, and tribal cheers echo across the golden dunes. The vibe is electric—competitive yet celebratory—and it draws fans and tourists from across the region.

Million-Dirham Prizes and High Stakes

Forget ribbons and plastic trophies. Camel race Dubai champions walk (or trot) away with:

• Hefty cash prizes, sometimes over AED 3.5 million ($1M USD)
• Trophy SUVs—because what’s a victory without a new Land Cruiser?
• Breeding contracts that can turn a single win into a dynasty

Even runners-up go home with serious rewards. At this level, every second counts—and every race feels like a cinematic showdown in the sand.

“My camel won the Ḥagayeg final in 2023. He bought me a house. Literally.”
— Young Emirati owner, still trying to process the ROI

Award ceremonies are a swirl of flashing cameras, trainers showering camels with rose petals, and crowd chants so loud even the camels seem to pause and enjoy the limelight.

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: Want a front-row view of the biggest race without selling your soul—or your SUV? Book a VIP seat at the Al Marmoom Camel Racing Festival Finals in advance. You’ll get shaded seating, refreshments, and unbeatable views of one of the most iconic camel races in Dubai.

Fun Facts & Local Legends: Sand, Superstition & Superstar Camels

Camel racing in the UAE isn’t just about speed—it’s about stories. Behind every robot jockey and cheering crowd is a history of superstition, family pride, and camels that are basically celebs with humps. So buckle up—because these tales are wilder than a sprint finish at Al Marmoom.

Famous Camels & Legendary Races

Move over, racehorses—there are camels in the UAE more famous than influencers on Sheikh Zayed Road.

Take “Al Aseef,” for example. This beast didn’t just win races—it swept three consecutive championships, netting over 10 million AED in prize money. Locals still talk about it like it’s folklore. And then there’s “Abu Dhabi Star,” who lost a final race by just a nose length to rival “Wald Al Reem” in 2008. That finish? Iconic. Heartbreak and glory in a single dusty photo frame.

Some camel bloodlines are so prestigious, owners have turned down offers of luxury cars and private islands. Because when your camel’s winning DNA is worth millions… who needs a yacht?

“My father sold our fastest camel in ’96. My grandfather didn’t speak to him for a week.”
— Faisal, third-gen camel trainer from Sharjah

Superstitions & Traditional Chants

Want to win a camel race? You’ll need more than training—you’ll need blessings, rituals, and a little desert magic.

Before a big race, it’s common to see trainers whispering into their camels’ ears. Not gossip—ancient chants meant to inspire speed, focus, and just a touch of luck. You might catch the Yasat ritual, where they circle the camel with burning incense while murmuring protective verses.

And no, you’re not imagining it—some camels do wear “evil eye” amulets on their blankets. Others are sprinkled with water from Zamzam, the holy well in Mecca, to protect against envy.

There are also camera superstitions—some owners refuse pre-race photos, fearing that capturing the camel’s spirit might jinx its chances. And trainers? They’ll often wear the same lucky kandura every race. Washed or unwashed? Let’s not ask.

Tales from the Track: Camel Whisperers & Racing Quirks

These majestic animals may look chill, but they’ve got personalities—and drama.

One trainer shared, “My camel refused to race until I brought his favorite caretaker back from holiday. We tried replacing him. The camel sat down at the starting line.” That’s diva energy we respect.

Another? “My fastest female only responds to oud music. Play anything else—she pouts.” Yup, even camels have Spotify preferences.

And you’ve got innovators too. One young owner? Downloaded a meditation app for his anxious camel. “Ocean waves before race time calms him. My dad thinks it’s nonsense—until we win.”

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: Want the real scoop? Hang around the paddocks after the races. That’s when the owners relax, the stories start flowing, and if you’re lucky, someone might introduce you to a camel with a fan base bigger than your favorite influencer.

Final Thoughts: Why Camel Racing Belongs on Your UAE Bucket List

Let’s be honest—before this guide, you probably thought camel racing was just a quirky desert thing. But now? You know it’s an electrifying blend of tradition, tech, and tribal pride. The thunder of hooves, the swirl of desert sand, the calls of proud trainers—it’s a sensory explosion that sticks with you long after the last camel crosses the finish line.

Camel racing isn’t just one of the most thrilling traditional sports in the Emirates—it’s a living, breathing part of Emirati identity. And the fact that it’s free, family-friendly, and full of fascinating rituals makes it one of the most unique family activities in the UAE.

Go See It for Yourself

No reel, TikTok, or travel blog can do justice to the real thing. You’ve got to be there—in the desert chill of early morning, cup of gahwa in hand, cheering along with locals as camel race in Dubai or Abu Dhabi takes off in a dusty blur.

Whether you’re watching at Al Marmoom Camel Race Track, soaking in the vibe at Al Wathba, or chasing hidden gems like Al Tallah or Al Sawan, one thing’s guaranteed: you’ll walk away entertained, educated, and totally enchanted.

“You haven’t truly experienced the UAE until you’ve watched a camel race at sunrise.”
— Every seasoned expat ever

Upcoming Events & Resources

Ready to plan your visit? These major races are calling your name (and your camera):

For schedules, race day updates, and tour packages:

• Dubai Camel Racing Club (Official site)
• Visit Dubai for event tie-ins and tour options
• Book race day tours via agencies like Saifco Travel or Platinum Heritage

Wow-Emirates Expert Tip: Combine your camel race visit with a desert safari for the ultimate Emirati double-header. Start with a race at dawn, end with dune bashing and a BBQ at sunset. It doesn’t get more “UAE” than that.

That’s a wrap! Now, the only thing left to do? Set your alarm, grab your sunnies, and get ready to meet the real stars of the desert—the UAE’s champion camels.