Hamdan Bin Zayed Celebrates Winners At The 3rd Al Dhafra Camel Racing Festival
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, recently attended the 3rd Al Dhafra Camel Racing Festival. He observed the Haqayeq category race at Madinat Zayed’s Al Dhafra Racetrack. His presence highlighted the importance of camel racing in preserving UAE's cultural heritage.
Participants and camel owners expressed gratitude for the leadership's unwavering support for camel racing. This backing is evident in the organisation of heritage events that draw significant participation from across the UAE and GCC. Such events play a crucial role in maintaining traditional sports within the community.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan praised President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his strong support of heritage sports, particularly camel racing. He stressed that the wise leadership continues to uphold the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan by preserving and promoting the UAE’s rich cultural traditions.
The festival featured 107 races across three categories: Haqayeq, Luqaya, and Eydha. There were 24 major trophies awarded, with eight in each category. Additionally, valuable cash prizes were allocated for winners from 1st to 10th place, enhancing competition among participants.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan also commended the exceptional organisation of the festival’s third edition. He emphasised the need to further develop heritage sports and increase their presence within society. The event's success reflects a commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement.
Following the races, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan crowned the winners of the Haqayeq category, congratulating them on their achievements. He acknowledged the broad participation of camel owners from across the GCC, highlighting camel racing as a national tradition deeply rooted in Emirati history and identity.
Notable Attendees
The event was attended by several notable figures including Humaid Saeed Al Neyadi, Director of the Office of the President’s Court; Nasser Mohammed Al Mansouri, Under-Secretary of the Ruler’s Representative Court in Al Dhafra Region; and Abdulla Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director of the Camel Race Association.
The festival serves as a platform to celebrate UAE's cultural heritage while fostering unity among participants from different regions. It underscores a shared commitment to preserving traditional sports for future generations.
With inputs from WAM


