Winners Honoured at Al Ain Camel Racing Festival 2025

The inaugural Al Ain Camel Racing Festival 2025 concluded with an exciting award ceremony at Al Rawda Camel Racetrack in the Al Ain Region. The festival, held under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, showcased the rich heritage of camel racing in the UAE.

Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Board Chairman of the Presidential Flight, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan presented the awards to the winners in the Romooz category, recognizing their skill, dedication, and competitive spirit.

Winners of Romooz Category Celebrate Success

In the Romooz category, Elaan, owned by Hamad Mohammed Suhail bin Owaidhan Al Ameri, claimed first place in the open race, securing the prestigious festival sword. Meanwhile, Nasi, owned by Mabkhout Mohammed Lutiyah Al Ameri, triumphed in the second race, earning the Open Zomool Race rifle.

The fifth race and the Open Zomool category saw Nasi win again, taking home the rifle and the honour of the race. Elaan returned to claim first place in the sixth race, winning another festival sword. These outstanding performances highlighted the skill and competitive spirit of UAE camel owners and their exceptional camels.

Leadership Emphasises Heritage and Support

Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan praised the winners for their remarkable achievements. They reaffirmed the UAE leadership’s dedication to supporting heritage events and preserving the nation’s rich cultural and sporting traditions.

The sheikhs also commended the festival organisers for their professionalism, high standards, and dedication to ensuring a successful event. Their support ensures that camel racing continues to thrive as a key pillar of Emirati heritage.

Festival Attracts Wide Participation

The Al Ain Camel Racing Festival 2025 attracted broad participation from across the UAE, the GCC, and camel racing enthusiasts globally. Officials, camel owners, trainers, and fans attended the festival, sharing in the excitement of the competition and celebrating the UAE’s deep-rooted cultural traditions.

The festival featured three preliminary rounds followed by a final round, totaling 605 races. Multiple age divisions were included, offering diverse opportunities for participants to showcase their camels’ abilities, with special focus on the Romooz category.

Organisers Highlight Event Success

The festival was organised by the Camel Racing Affairs Centre and the Presidential Camels, under the supervision of the Camel Racing Federation. Organisers emphasised the event’s success in promoting UAE heritage, providing valuable prizes, and raising the profile of camel racing as a sport and cultural celebration.

The successful completion of the festival reflects the UAE’s commitment to preserving traditions while encouraging modern competition standards and fostering international participation.

Cultural Significance of Camel Racing

Camel racing remains one of the most celebrated cultural sports in the UAE, representing centuries of tradition and community engagement. Festivals like Al Ain 2025 strengthen national identity, highlight Emirati heritage, and inspire younger generations to continue the legacy of camel racing.

The award ceremony and the festival overall demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to blending heritage with competitive excellence, ensuring that camel racing remains a symbol of pride and cultural continuity in the country.