The 20th Al Dhafra Festival Celebrates Emirati Heritage Through Camel Beauty Competition

The 20th Al Dhafra Festival has opened in Sweihan, Al Ain Region, marking another year of celebration for one of the UAE’s most cherished cultural traditions. The festival, running until 3 November 2026, brings together enthusiasts and breeders for Sweihan Mazayna, a prestigious camel beauty competition that sits at the heart of Emirati heritage.

The event encompasses 82 rounds of competition, with participants vying across multiple categories to showcase the finest specimens of these noble animals. The scale of the undertaking is matched by the generosity of its prizes: 775 awards totalling over AED9 million are distributed throughout the festival, recognising excellence and encouraging the preservation of authentic Arabian breeding traditions.

Organised by the Thoroughbred Racing and Racing Heritage Commission, the Al Dhafra Festival serves as a vital custodian of national identity, offering a space where Emirati values, heritage and cultural practices are celebrated and passed down through generations. The festival draws on deep historical significance, connecting contemporary participants with centuries of tradition that have defined Emirati society.

The competition attracts breeders and enthusiasts from across the Emirates and beyond, all united in their passion for these remarkable animals and the cultural significance they carry within Emirati life. The festival remains a testament to the enduring importance of preserving and honouring the customs and practices that form the bedrock of national identity.

Source: Abu Dhabi Media Office