Post by : Maya Rahman

Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President and Chairman of the Camel Racing Federation, graced the evening races of the 3rd Al Dhafra Camel Racing Festival. Hosted at Madinat Zayed’s Al Dhafra Racetrack, this event highlights one of the UAE’s most cherished traditional sports—camel racing. The festival serves as a proud testament to Emirati culture, heritage, and communal spirit.

This prestigious festival is held under the auspices of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, signifying the UAE’s ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting its rich heritage through sports that connect current generations with historical traditions. The leadership’s unwavering support for camel racing underscores the UAE’s aim to foster national identity through cultural continuity.

During the festival’s evening session, 17 thrilling races unfolded under the Haqayeq category, showcasing young camels' speed and endurance. The spectators were treated to exhilarating competitions and remarkable performances from participants who showcased their finest-bred camels and racing prowess. The atmosphere was electric, uniting camel owners, trainers, and fans in a grand homage to the sport and its traditions.

The 3rd Al Dhafra Camel Racing Festival features a total of 107 races, segmented into three primary categories — Haqayeq, Luqaya, and Eydha. Each category corresponds to a particular age group of camels, ensuring equitable competition and vibrant excitement at all levels. Throughout the festival, 24 prestigious trophies are up for grabs, with eight designated for each category, inspiring excellence among breeders and fostering a spirit of fair competition in this treasured Emirati sport.

Speaking at the event, Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan emphasized the significance of such festivals in safeguarding the UAE’s rich cultural legacy. He commended the dedication of camel owners and trainers devoted to preserving the sport’s authenticity while elevating its standards. He also acknowledged the organizational efforts that make each edition of the festival progressively more successful, ultimately enhancing the sport’s appeal on both local and regional stages.

The Al Dhafra Camel Racing Festival is not merely a sporting occasion but a celebration of unity, heritage, and pride. It brings together individuals from all regions of the UAE, epitomizing the collective respect for its traditions. The event’s triumph enhances the UAE’s global standing as a nation that harmonizes modern advancements with the preservation of its culture. With steadfast backing from the nation's leaders, camel racing persists as a fundamental aspect of Emirati identity and a lasting symbol of the desert spirit.

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