The desert winds are alive with the thunder of hooves and the roar of tradition as the 1st Al Ain Camel Racing Festival kicks off under the esteemed patronage of UAE leadership. Held from July 4 to October 9, 2025, at the Al Rawda Camel Racetrack in the Al Ain Region, this monumental event is not just about speed—it’s a full-throttle celebration of Emirati heritage, identity, and national pride.
Launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and supported by His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the festival embodies a powerful continuation of efforts to preserve and promote camel racing—a sport that dates back generations and remains deeply embedded in the soul of the Emirates. With a staggering 605 races lined up across various age categories, the event is more than just a competition—it’s a living legacy in motion.
Beyond the dust and drama of the racetrack, the festival showcases the UAE’s unwavering commitment to honoring its authentic Arab traditions. From the enthusiastic participation of camel owners across the Gulf to the dazzling array of trophies and prizes, every detail echoes the leadership’s vision of cultural sustainability and social unity.
The festival is structured around three preliminary rounds, leading up to a grand finale in October, promising thrills, celebrations, and spirited community engagement. Each race is a testament to the deep bond between the UAE people and the noble camel—an animal that once symbolized survival, now racing into the future as a symbol of national pride.
As thousands flock to Al Ain to witness this heritage unfold, it’s clear: the UAE isn’t just preserving its traditions—it’s reinvigorating them for the next generation, ensuring the rhythm of racing hooves continues to echo through time.
