AE Upcoming

Al Ain Camel Racing Festival

Name: Al Ain Camel Racing Festival
Start: 2026-10-03
End: 2026-10-08
Location: Al Ain

The 2nd Al Ain Camel Racing Festival is a major sporting and cultural event taking place from October 3 to 8, 2026, at the Al Rawda Camel Racetrack. Held under the patronage of Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the festival features 150 races across numerous traditional categories, ranging from heritage races to high-stakes professional competitions for various camel age groups.

Date: Oct 3-8, 2026
Location: Al Ain
Status: Upcoming

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Event summary

Highlights

150 total camel races across multiple categories
AED 1 million top prize for the Houl Open race winner
10 prestigious Romooz trophy races
Heritage races celebrating traditional Emirati culture

Organized by the Presidential Camels and Camel Racing Affairs Centre under the supervision of the Camel Racing Association, the festival showcases the deep-rooted heritage of camel racing in the UAE. The 2026 edition includes 150 races, beginning with heritage events and progressing through standard racing categories such as Haqayeq, Laqaya, Itha’a, Thanaya, Houl, and Zomool.

A major highlight of the festival is the series of 10 Romooz (symbol) races, which are designated for specific classifications including Bakkar and Jeadan. Participants must undergo strict camel inspection and age verification procedures at the Al Rawda Camel Racetrack in the days leading up to their specific category races to ensure fair competition.

Competitive stakes are high, with significant cash and symbolic prizes awarded to winners. Top prizes include the Houl Open winner receiving a sword and AED 1 million, while other winners may receive rifles or cups alongside substantial cash awards. These rewards emphasize the festival's status as a premier event in the regional camel racing calendar.

Practical details

Location described by the source: Al Rawda Camel Racetrack; www.mediaoffice.abudhabi
Area for browsing nearby events: Al Ain

Organizer — source statement: The festival is organised by the Presidential Camels and Camel Racing Affairs Centre under the supervision of the Camel Racing Association.; www.mediaoffice.abudhabi

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.