In the heart of the United Arab Emirates, camel racing is experiencing a renaissance, with the sport garnering significant attention and prize money. According to reports, the winnings for winning camels can exceed $2 million, showcasing the lucrative nature of the industry. One bull camel even fetched a staggering 35 million Dirham, equivalent to over $9.5 million, in a recent sale.
“It’s part of the tradition, it’s part of the culture,” expressed endurance rider Hussain al Marzooqi, emphasizing the deep-rooted significance of camel racing in the region. He added, “There’s hardly a house you can find that doesn’t have a camel owner in it.”
The evolution of the sport has seen a notable integration of technology, transforming the way races are conducted. Since the prohibition of child riders in 2002, robots weighing no more than 4kg have been employed to replace human jockeys, marking a shift towards a more humane approach to racing. These robots come equipped with walkie-talkie speakers for owners to deliver commands during races and small automatic whips controlled remotely.
Al Marzooqi highlighted the rationale behind using robots on young camels, stating, “Before it used to be young riders on them but the UAE has always wanted to go forward doing the correct thing.”
The advancement in technology has not only enhanced the racing experience but also raised the standards of care for racing camels. Regular blood tests, specialized dietary plans, and meticulous training regimes are now integral to maintaining the peak performance of these prized animals.
“I know some trainers that buy honey for their camels for about 12,000 Dirhams ($3,250) per kilogram,” shared Al Marzooqi, shedding light on the level of investment and care dedicated to racing camels. He further mentioned, “The average cost of keeping a camel here would be 4,000-5,000 Dirhams ($1,000-1,300) per month. It’s on a par with keeping a thoroughbred.”
Amidst the modernization of the sport, the essence of tradition and culture remains ingrained in every race, showcasing the harmonious blend of heritage and innovation in the world of camel racing.
