ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
The second qualifying round of the Al Ain Camel Racing Festival 2026 is underway at Al Rawdah Camel Racing Track in Al Ain Region.
Running until August 9, 2026, the event attracts broad participation from camel owners and trainers from across the UAE and the GCC.
Building on the success of the first qualifying round, which featured highly competitive racing and an exceptional standard of performance, the upcoming races reflect the continued growth and popularity of camel racing across the region.
The festival also highlights the UAE leadership’s enduring commitment to preserving the nation’s rich cultural heritage and ensuring the sustainability of the sport for future generations.
Leading camel owners, trainers and racing stables are competing in a series of races renowned for their high technical standards and competitive spirit.
The festival has established itself as one of the region’s premier camel racing events, distinguished by its professional organisation, strong participation, and its role in celebrating one of the UAE’s most traditional sports.
Competitions for the Futtamin category were held on July 31 and August 1, to be followed by the Haqayeq races on August 2 and 3. The Lagayah category will compete on August 4 and 5, while the Yathaa races are scheduled for August 6 and 7.
The Thanaya competitions will take place on August 8, before the festival concludes on August 9 with the Houl and Zamoul races.
The Organising Committee announced that registration for all categories will continue until August 8 via the Smart Al Merkadh platform.
Registration for each category will close one day before its respective race, in line with the approved schedule, to ensure smooth operational procedures. Entries will be accepted daily from 8am to 6pm.
The committee also confirmed that all technical, administrative and logistical preparations have been completed to ensure the successful staging of the event and to provide participants with the highest standards of organisation and services.
These efforts further reinforce the festival’s position as one of the region’s leading camel racing events and a key platform for preserving and promoting the UAE’s authentic heritage and sporting traditions.
As anticipation builds, camel racing enthusiasts are looking forward to strong competition across all age categories. With its consistently high level of participation, the second qualifying round provides owners and trainers with an important opportunity to assess their camels ahead of the season’s final championships, further cementing Al Ain Camel Racing Festival as one of the region’s most prestigious heritage sporting events, where tradition, excellence and fair competition come together.