Camel Racing in Abu Dhabi

Watch Camel Races at Al Wathba Race Course

Perhaps not the most obvious thing to do on holiday but surely one of the most memorable is to view the camel races. It’s a very Arabian type of sport, obviously, and predominantly male focused – and although you may compare it to horse racing or greyhounds, it has its own niche and something to experience if you have a chance.

The camel racing is at The Al Wathba Race Course and is roughly 30 minutes drive away, and since it gets very hot during the day, the races take place early in the morning and the races last between 10 and 15 minutes – and they carry on back to back with no real break in between, so you can watch until you can’t take any more. It’s a little difficult to see which camel is which but usually the camel saddle is different in colour, as are the little robot camel jockeys. The amusing thing is that these robots are controlled by the side of the racecourse by their owners driving in their 4x4s.

This is one of our favourite things to do, just for pure uniqueness.

Point of Note:

• A few years ago, the profile of camel races were raised when it was alleged that underage jockeys from the Indian subcontinent were being used. That’s all changed now with the use of the Robot Jockeys – controlled from the side of the race course!
• There is a pong about it all – but it’s all about the atmosphere!
• There aren’t many tourists visiting, but the locals are very friendly and happy to have you there.
• Betting is illegal, so if you want to wager amongst friends, then keep it under wraps.

When – Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays , 630am 9am with races starting from 730am onwards, from October to April

How long – 3 hours plus travelling time

Location  –  We recommend that you drive, out of town towards the Abu Dhabi Al Ain highway – and next to the Abu Dhabi Al Ain truck road. You’ll see the camel signs.

Cost – Free