Imagine watching hundreds of camels racing across the golden desert at sunrise. Exciting, right?  

Get ready for such an experience because Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed announced the dates of Al Ain Camel Racing Festival 2026 for its 2nd edition. Amongst UAE’s biggest heritage sporting festivals, UAE Camel Racing Festival will take place from 3rd July to 9th October 2026. Witness the lightweight robotic jockeys riding 7 different camel age categories in 605 races taking place during 3 months of competition. 

Travelers planning to get Dubai tour packages in July, August, September, and October should not miss the camel racing events in Abu Dhabi. Make the most of your trip with this UAE Camel Racing Festival 2026 Guide curated by the experts of a trusted Travel Agency in UAE.  

Al Ain Camel Racing Festival 2026: Quick Facts 

• Dates: July 3rd to October 9th, 2026 
• Timings of Camel Races: 6:30 am to 7:00 am 
• Location: Al Rawda Camel Racetrack, Al Ain 
• Event Organizer: Presidential Camel Racing Center 
• Entry fee: Free Entry for all visitors 
• Duration of festival: 3 months of competition  
• Camel Categories: 7 different age groups 
• Number of Races: 605+ races  
• Ideal for: First-time UAE tourists, families with children, cultural travelers, wildlife photographers, adventure seekers, and history lovers. 
• Distance from Major UAE Cities: Approximately 160 kilometres. 
  
  

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What is the Al Ain Camel Racing Festival? 



The camel racing festival UAE in Al Ain is a prestigious sporting celebration that honors the Emirati’s traditional heritage. Attending this cultural extravaganza features competitions among different camel age categories, each offering the unique characteristics and abilities of these magnificent animals. 

Al Ain, the “Garden City of the UAE” hosted a successful inaugural Camel Racing Festival in 2025 at Al Rawda Camel Racetrack. Keeping the legacy alive, the festival is back to entertain visitors from across the UAE and beyond.  

What are the Camel Age Categories participating in this festival? 

The Al Ain camel race 2026 includes races for the following ones –  

• Fattameen – young 1-year-old camels 
• Haqaiq – Intermediate age groups 
• Laqaya – 3 years old camels 
• Itha’a – Competitive category 
• Thanaya – 4 to 5 years’ old camels 
• Houl – Mature racing camels  
• Zomool – Camels aged 6 years or more 

What is the Al Ain Camel Racing Festival schedule? 

The 2026 edition is organized as follows –  

• First qualifying round: July 2026 
• Second qualifying round: August 2026 
• Third qualifying round: September 2026 
• Championship Finals: October 2026 

Please note: Al Ain experiences extremely rising summer temperatures, which may reach between 43 to 48 C (109 F to 118 F) during the daytime hours. Due to this all the races are strategically scheduled in the early morning to ensure the welfare of both camels and visitors. 

What makes Al Ain Camel Racing Festival unique? 

The experience of watching modern camel racing experience in Al Ain in the Arabian desert, where robotic jockeys replace human riders. This upgrade took place with an intent to keep human riders safe, who usually get injured while racing. Moreover, it enhances animal welfare, improves race safety, and preserves the sport while following international ethical standards.  

Where is the Al Ain Camel Racing Festival Held? 



One of the biggest advantages of attending the festival is the easy accessibility to Al Rawda Camel Racetrack from UAE’s major cities. The racetrack is well-connected by modern highways, making it easily accessible from all Emirates. 

Driving Distances from Major UAE Destinations: 

• Abu Dhabi – Approximately 155 kms | 1 hour 33 minutes’ ride via E30 
• Dubai – Approximately 132 kms | 1 hour 23 minutes’ ride via E66  
• Sharjah – Approximately 148 kms | 1 hour 35 minutes’ ride via E611 
• Fujairah – Approximately 190 kms | 2 hours via E87 

Amenities at Al Rawda Camel Racetrack: Basic visitor facilities such as parking, rest areas, and viewing spaces are generally available at the venue. 

How to reach Al Rawda Camel Racetrack? 

Al Ain is UAE’s inland oasis town on the Omani border, where Al Rawda Camel Racetrack is located. Travel enthusiasts in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah or other UAE cities can reach the racetrack in the following ways – 

By car – Highly recommended and most convenient option to reach the festival is by private vehicle or rental car. While driving you can see signs showcasing the direction for Al Ain Camel Racing Festival dates 2026. 

By taxi or ride-hailing – Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are readily available for Al Ain visit even in the early morning. 

What to expect at the 2nd Al Ain Camel Racing Festival? 

Visitors can expect a blend of traditional Emirati culture, competitive camel racing, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to witness another racing season, here’s what awaits: 

Experience Authentic Emirati Culture – Camel racing has been an integral part of Emirati desert life for generations. Today, the camel race Al Ain 2026 offers visitors a unique window into Emirati heritage. 

Modern Camel Racing Technique – The thrill of high-speed camel racing featuring robotic jockeys instead of traditional riders, ensuring animal welfare while maintaining the sport’s competitive spirit. 

Great Desert Photography Opportunity – The camel riding festival offers exceptional photography opportunities like majestic camels in action against stunning deserts, traditional Emirati atmosphere and cultural displays, early morning golden hour lighting, and close-up shots of robotic jockeys. 

Cultural Immersion – Apart from races, visitors can learn about camel breeding traditions, understand the significance of Camel racing UAE society, and time-honored rituals. 

Experience Family-friendly Atmosphere – The festival warmly welcomes visitors of all ages from all walks of life. Families can comfortably enjoy the races in a safe and welcoming environment. 

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Places to visit near Al Rawda Camel Racetrack (within 200 kms) 



After attending Al Ain Camel Racing UAE in the morning, explore these famous tourist attractions within 200 kms of Al Rawda Camel Racetrack, that make your trip worth it.  

Al Ain National Museum (14 kms; 19 minutes) 

Witness the rich history of Al Ain at this national museum showcasing a collection of Gold Ornaments, Decorated Stone Vessel, Copper Dagger, Stamp Steal with Foot motif, etc. 

Al Jahili Fort (18 kms; 22 minutes) 

A fascinating landmark, Al Jahili Fort echoes the philosophy, culture, and heritage of Abu Dhabi, standing as a testament to the legacy.  

Jebel Hafeet (22 kms; 27 minutes) 

Abu Dhabi’s highest mountain peak offers diverse attractions and things to do in Jebel Hafeet that are worth visiting during your getaway to Al Ain. 

Al Ain Zoo (22 kms; 24 minutes) 

For an exciting wildlife safari adventure, Al Ain Zoo will keep your kids engaged in viewing and learning about the incredible animals to await your discovery. 

Qasr Al Muwaiji (20 kms; 26 minutes) 

The birthplace of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, beholds a historical significance of the former era. 

Hili Archaeological Park (28 kms; 35 minutes) 

The intriguing Hili Archaeological Park uniquely melds the allure of a public garden with the deep-rooted history of an archaeological site. 

Al Ain Oasis (135 kms; 1 hour 33 minutes)  

A hidden gem, Al Ain Oasis is a sprawling 1,200-hectare haven of nature and history. It represents Oasis’s rich history through interactive displays and explores by foot, bike, or buggy. 

Al Ain Adventure (155 kms; 1 hour 35 minutes)  

Indulge in unlimited fun at Al Ain Adventure’s thrilling activities like kayaks, fun watersports, climbing wall, and ziplining. 

Green Mubazzarah Park (155 kms; 1 hour 35 minutes) 

Set against the majestic Jebel Hafeet Mountains, Green Mubazzarah Park showcases Al Ain’s lush greenery where you can enjoy picnics and barbecues. 

Camel Souk (160 kms; 1 hour 41 minutes) 

Al Ain Camel Market offers a glimpse into traditional Emirati culture and deep connection between camels and the region’s heritage. 

Al Ain Camel Racing Festival visitor guide 

Here’s a comprehensive family guide to Al Ain Camel Racing Festival helpful in planning your visit wisely: 

Best arrival time: The best time to visit Al Ain Camel Racing Festival is 6:00 AM to observe breathtaking views before the races begin at 6:30 AM. Arriving early will make it easy for you to find the perfect spot for photogenic shots.  

Availability of parking: Parking is easily available at Al Rawda Camel Racetrack, especially during the qualifying rounds. You may have difficulty finding parking during the championship finals week of October, so early arrival is recommended.  

What to wear: Light, loose-fitting clothes, modest attire, comfortable closed-toe shoes, light-colored clothing, cap, or sunglasses, are recommended when you’re planning a visit to camel racing in Al Ain. 

Summer weather tips: Al Ain experiences intense heat, so morning races help to avoid the hottest part of the day. Stay in shaded areas whenever possible and stay hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion.  

Stay sun protected: Use SPF 50+ and reapply every 2 hours or more to protect your skin. Protective accessories, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses are recommended.  

Photography tips – Early morning lighting provides soft, golden hues ideal for capturing Instagram-worthy photos. 

Binocular recommendations – Carry a compact binocular with 8x to 10x magnification, ideal for race viewing. 

Conclusion 

Whether you’re visiting for culture, photography, or a unique family outing, this event promises unforgettable memories and insights into the nation’s rich sporting legacy.  If you’re planning your vacations in UAE, the travel experts at Next Holidays can help you combine the camel race Al Ain 2026 with best attractions across Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. So, plan the trip with experts.