Camel Race


Camel Races in Dubai - this is Arab folk entertainment, the history of which goes deep into the centuries. Once such races were arranged only on big holidays or at weddings . The last century turned all traditions, and camel racing was recognized as the official sport.

Camel racing is not an expensive hobby. Animals are allowed up to 8 years old and worth more than $ 1 million. But the winnings are also good: it can be auto, gold or $ 1 million, but the most important thing for UAE residents is respect and prestige.

general information

Residents of the UAE are accustomed to luxury and surround themselves with all the benefits of modernity, while they do not forget about their roots. So, for themselves and the guests of the Emirate of Dubai, its residents arrange a journey to the fascinating past dedicated to the cultural heritage of the Arabian nomads. This is the Al Marmoum festival, during which the famous camel races are held.

A bit of history

Initially, the camel drivers were children, the small weight of which allowed the animals to develop a speed of up to 60 km / h. After 2002, the involvement of minors in this sport became illegal. The solution to the problem was the use of obedient and light jockeys-robots. On the backs of camels are mounted special whips, a GPS tracking system and shock absorbers, all this is under remote control.

Camel - the symbol of the UAE

This is really a unique animal, worthy of respect. In the UAE, the camel occupies a special place in traditions and legends, as it stores in itself all the qualities that are so necessary for living in the desert. A few interesting facts:

  1. Previously, the camel was the basis of all life, it served as a vehicle, and breadwinner for nomadic peoples.
  2. Today, former Bedouins move on luxury cars, and live in houses made of concrete and steel. With the aim of preserving the historical heritage of their country, the Arabs turned the tradition of camel riding into an exciting and original sport. Authorities of the UAE and many private individuals finance camel races, huge sums are spent on breeding animals and building tracks.
  3. There are about 20 training clubs throughout the emirate.
  4. On the territory of the UAE, a scientific specialized center has been set up, engaged in the transplantation of camel embryos. A breeding and sale of breeding camels - a very good and profitable business.
  5. Only in the Arab Emirates is a unique and unique beauty contest for camels. Winners receive prizes and gifts from the prize fund totaling more than $ 13 million.
  6. In the UAE, camel races are the pride of local residents, there is even a special TV channel that broadcasts all the most important events in the Arab sport for those who can not personally visit them.

How do camel races occur in Dubai?

Today camel races are not only a tribute to tradition and a very lucrative sport, but also the most gambling entertainment for tourists. The festival "Al Marmoum" is held in the main camel racing club of the UAE "Dubai Camel Racing Club", Locals are actively ill during the race, loudly shouting encouraging phrases.

Basic rules on the run:

  1. From 15 to 70 camels participate in races.
  2. The action takes place in an oval track 10 km long. Owners of camels ride cars alongside their animals and control them from a distance with the help of robots.
  3. Each round is held for a separate category of camels. Interestingly, the preference is given to females: they are more accommodating, quiet and they have a softer gait, which is important for winning the race.

The organizers of the race try to diversify this event in every possible way. After the track, you can visit the fair, where different products from camel wool, souvenir rosaries and even carpets are sold.

Features of visit

Camel races in Dubai are worth a visit, the entrance is free, and the impressions are inexpressible. Competitions are held annually from October to April. In Dubai, they are held regularly, but the most reckless and famous are held in the framework of the Al Marmoum championship.

How to get there?

Most hotels offer guests a visit to camel racing as an excursion and organize a transfer to the racecourse. If you decide to get yourself, then there are two options: