The Twentieth Al Dhafra Festival Celebrates Emirati Heritage

Abu Dhabi's most prestigious camel racing festival returns with the Razeen Mazayna, a week long celebration of Emirati tradition and equestrian excellence.

The Al Dhafra Festival stands as one of the emirate’s most significant cultural gatherings, a testament to the enduring heritage of Emirati camel racing and the traditions that have shaped life across the Arabian Peninsula for centuries. Now in its twentieth year, the festival remains a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s cultural calendar, drawing enthusiasts, breeders and competitors from across the region to participate in and witness the art of camel racing at its finest.

Camel racing occupies a singular place in Emirati culture, representing not merely a sport but a profound connection to the desert heritage and the values of horsemanship, breeding excellence and competitive spirit that run through the fabric of Emirati identity. The festival provides a stage for this tradition to unfold in its most authentic and celebrated form, with competitors bringing camels bred and trained according to practices refined over generations.

The twentieth edition of Al Dhafra takes place in two distinct phases, each held in different locations across Abu Dhabi’s heritage regions. The festival begins with the Suwaihan Mazayna, held in the Al Ain region from 27th October to 3rd November 2026, before moving to the Razeen Mazayna, which runs from Sunday 15th November to Sunday 22nd November 2026 at Razeen.

Understanding the Mazayna Format

The term Mazayna refers to the racing competitions that form the heart of the festival. These events are structured across multiple races and categories, with camels competing across different weight and age divisions. The racing showcases the speed, endurance and training of the animals, alongside the skill and judgment of the handlers who guide them. Each race represents months of preparation, careful breeding and the accumulated expertise of camel owners dedicated to the sport.

The Heritage and Significance

Abu Dhabi’s Heritage Authority, which organises the festival, ensures that Al Dhafra maintains its cultural authenticity while providing a sophisticated venue for this celebration. The festival draws upon traditions that extend back centuries, yet it continues to evolve as a contemporary expression of Emirati identity and values. For many families, participation in the festival represents a continuation of heritage passed through generations, a living link to ancestral practices and knowledge.

The races themselves demand considerable expertise. Camel breeders invest significant time and resources into selecting animals with the right temperament, physical attributes and genetic lines. The training regimen is rigorous, involving careful dietary management, conditioning and the development of the rapport between handler and animal essential to competitive racing. Winners at the festival gain considerable prestige, and success at Al Dhafra can elevate both the standing of a breeder and the value of their breeding lines.

The Razeen Venue

Razeen serves as the principal racing ground for the second phase of the twentieth festival. The venue provides the facilities and infrastructure necessary to accommodate the races, spectators and competitors in comfort and safety. Located within Abu Dhabi’s heritage regions, Razeen situates the festival within the landscape most connected to these traditions, allowing the racing to unfold in an environment that deepens the cultural resonance of the event.

When and Where

The Razeen Mazayna takes place from Sunday 15th November to Sunday 22nd November 2026. Racing runs daily from 06:00 AM until 06:00 PM, providing extended hours for spectators to attend across the week. The venue is Razeen, located within Abu Dhabi’s heritage region.

Tickets and Admission

Admission to the Razeen Mazayna is ticketed. Tickets are available online, allowing visitors to secure entry in advance. The extended daily hours and week long duration provide flexibility for those wishing to attend, whether for a single race or across multiple days of the festival.

Why Al Dhafra Matters

The Al Dhafra Festival represents far more than competitive racing. It functions as a cultural anchor for Abu Dhabi, a moment each year when the emirate’s heritage comes to the foreground, celebrated and shared with the world. The festival affirms the values embedded in Emirati tradition while demonstrating how these heritage practices continue to thrive as living elements of contemporary life.

For residents and visitors alike, the twentieth edition of Al Dhafra offers an opportunity to witness one of the Arab world’s most significant sporting and cultural events. The festival’s continuation speaks to Abu Dhabi’s commitment to preserving and honouring the traditions that define Emirati identity, while the calibre of competition and the sophistication of its organisation reflect the emirate’s capacity to host events of international standing.