Fourth Al Dhafra Camel Racing Festival Commences Under Distinguished Patronage

The prestigious Al Dhafra Camel Racing Festival returns for its fourth edition, bringing together competitors from across the Emirates and the broader Gulf region for a week of celebrated sporting tradition.

The fourth Al Dhafra Camel Racing Festival commenced on Thursday under the esteemed patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region. Organised by the Camel Racing Federation, this distinguished event unfolds across five days until 25th October, presenting an extraordinary programme of 104 races that celebrate the time honoured heritage and contemporary excellence of this noble sport.

The festival embraces three racing categories: Haqayiq, Laqaya and Iza’a, each offering competitors the opportunity to vie for prestigious recognition. Camels competing across these divisions contend for twelve trophies, with four awards allocated to each category, alongside substantial cash and in-kind prizes that underscore the significance placed upon achievement and excellence.

The camel racing community has responded with considerable enthusiasm to this edition, building upon the remarkable participation witnessed in previous years. Camel owners from throughout the United Arab Emirates and across the Gulf Cooperation Council countries have brought their finest animals to compete, a testament to the festival’s standing as a premier event within the regional sporting calendar.

The organising committee has completed comprehensive preparations at the camel racetrack in Madinat Zayed, Al Dhafra Region, ensuring that all facilities and arrangements meet the exacting standards befitting this celebrated gathering. The meticulous attention to detail and dedication of those involved promises an occasion of considerable distinction, honouring both the traditions from which camel racing emerges and the contemporary sporting standards that define its present iteration.

Source: WAM