Do They Race Camels in Dubai?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re looking for an adventure that’s both unique and exciting, then you might be wondering if they race camels in Dubai. Well, the answer is yes! Camel racing is a popular sport in the United Arab Emirates, and Dubai is no exception.

The History of Camel Racing in Dubai

Camel racing has been a tradition in the Middle East for centuries. It started as a way for Bedouins to show off their camels’ speed and endurance. Over time, it evolved into a more formal sport that was enjoyed by everyone.

In Dubai, camel racing has been around for over 100 years. In the early days, it was just a way for locals to have some fun and compete against each other. However, with the discovery of oil in the region, camel racing became more organized and professional.

How Camel Racing Works

Camel racing is a bit different from horse racing. For one thing, camels are much larger than horses and can weigh up to 1,300 pounds. They also have a unique gait that takes some getting used to.

The races themselves are usually held on special tracks that are several miles long. The camels are ridden by jockeys who sit on their backs and use whips to encourage them to run faster.

In the past, young boys were used as jockeys because they were lightweight and could fit on the camels’ backs. However, this practice has been outlawed due to concerns about child labor. Nowadays, most camel races use robotic jockeys that are controlled by someone sitting in a car behind the camels.

Where to Watch Camel Racing in Dubai

If you’re interested in seeing camel racing in person, there are several places you can go in Dubai. One of the most popular venues is Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack. It’s located about 40 minutes outside of Dubai and has a seating capacity of over 60,000 people.

Another option is the Dubai Camel Racing Club, which is located in the Al Lisaili area. This club hosts races every Friday and Saturday during the winter months.

Conclusion

Camel racing might not be as well-known as horse racing or other sports, but it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in Dubai. The races are exciting to watch, and it’s a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. So why not add camel racing to your list of things to do in Dubai?