If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Dubai, camel racing should be at the top of your list! This incredible mix of tradition and technology takes place at the Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track, where camels dash across the desert guided by robot jockeys—yes, you read that right, robot jockeys!
It’s a one-of-a-kind event that blends old-school culture with a futuristic twist. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the camel racing in Dubai. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- When Are the Camel Races
- How Much Does It Cost
- How to Get There
- What to Bring to the Racing
- What to Expect at Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track
- Are Camel Races Ethical
- Pro Tips for a Great Experience
1
When Are the Camel Races
The camel racing season typically runs from October to April, aligning with Dubai’s cooler months. Races take place early in the morning on weekends, with most events finishing by 9:30 AM.
- Race Days: Primarily on Fridays and Saturdays.
- Show Times: Races start as early as 6:00 AM and conclude by 9:30 AM.
- Best Season: Visit between November and February for the ideal weather conditions and more frequent events.
Pro Tip: Check the schedule ahead of time to confirm the exact race dates and timings. The Al Marmoom Camel Racing Club website or local event apps like Wojhati may provide up-to-date information.
2
How Much Does It Cost
One of the best parts about attending camel races at Al Marmoom is that it’s completely free! You don’t need a ticket or reservation to witness this cultural spectacle.
- Entrance Fee: Free for all visitors.
- Additional Costs: If you choose to take a taxi, bus, or private vehicle, budget for transportation expenses.
3
How to Get There
The Dubai camel racing track, also called Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track, is located about a 30 minutes to an hour drive from central Dubai. You can reach it by car, taxi, or public transportation. Here are your main options:
By Bus
- Start your journey by taking the Green Line Metro to Oud Metha Metro Station.
- Exit the station at Exit 1 Gate and walk to the nearby Oud Metha Metro Bus Stop.
- Board Bus #67, which operates between 6:10 AM and 8:40 PM. The bus ride to Al Marmoom takes about 1 hour.
- Final Stop: Get off at the Jazira Poultry Farm Stop—you’ll know you’ve arrived when you see camel statues.
The Return Trip: If you’re taking the bus to the camel races, keep in mind that getting back to Dubai is a bit trickier. The return bus stop (Al Fathan Masjid 2 on Google Maps) is located on the opposite side of the highway, which cannot be reached on foot.
To make things easier, we booked an Uber directly from the racetrack for less than $5 CAD to drop us off at the bus stop (Al Fathan Masjid 2 on Google Maps). Alternatively, you’ll often find taxis waiting around the track during race times, so getting a ride back is usually not a problem.
By Car
- Driving to Al Marmoom is the most convenient option, taking about 30-40 minutes from downtown Dubai.
- Use Google Maps to navigate to Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track.
- Parking: Free parking is available near the racetrack.
By Taxi
- You can use ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber.
- The fare from central Dubai to Al Marmoom is around 70-100 AED ($19-27 USD).
- Travel time is about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
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4
What to Bring to the Racing
To make the most of your visit, here are some essentials you should pack:
- Comfortable Clothing: Dress for the early morning coolness, but layer down as the sun rises.
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Despite the early start of the race, the Dubai sun becomes intense even in the early morning hours. Click here!
- Water and Snacks: Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and light snacks since there are limited food options at the racetrack. Click here!
- Camera or Phone: Capture stunning photos of the camels and the racing action. The robot jockeys make for a unique photo opportunity!
- Binoculars: If you want a closer view of the camels as they race down the track, binoculars will enhance your experience. Click here!
- NOL Card: If using public transportation, ensure your Dubai NOL card is topped up.
5
What to Expect at Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track
Camel racing in Dubai is not just a race; it’s a celebration of tradition and innovation. The highlight of the event is watching camels, outfitted with remote-controlled robot jockeys, sprint across the sandy tracks at impressive speeds of up to 65 km/h. The races are accompanied by a vibrant local atmosphere, with spectators cheering and car owners often following alongside the camels in SUVs.
Unique Feature: The dubai camel racing robot jockeys are a modern addition that replaces human jockeys, showcasing Dubai’s innovation while respecting animal welfare.
My Experience: I expected to see a lot more of the races, but it turned out that wasn’t the case. Since the track is so massive, spectators can usually only watch either the start of the race or the finish line, as both happen at nearly the same time.
Once the race starts, you can keep track of the camels on the big screens set up around the venue, but the commentary is in Arabic, which adds to the local atmosphere, even if you don’t understand it. Races are short and fast-paced, with a new one starting every 10-15 minutes, so there’s always something happening!
6
Are Camel Races Ethical
This was one of the activities I was most excited to try in Dubai, but I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical about how the camels would be treated.
Once I got there, I was relieved to see that each camel only runs once per race day due to the sheer number of camels participating and the hot temperatures. They all looked well cared for and definitely not malnourished, which put my mind at ease.
Camels hold a special place in Emirati culture, symbolizing resilience and tradition, as they have been vital for transportation, trade, and survival in the harsh desert environment for centuries. Today, they are cherished not only as cultural icons but also as part of activities like camel racing, which continues to celebrate their significance. This deep cultural connection further assures that their well-being is taken seriously.
7
Pro Tips for a Great Experience
- Arrive Early: Since the races start at 6:00 AM, arriving early ensures you get a prime viewing spot.
- Respect Local Customs: As a visitor, dress modestly and follow local etiquette to show respect for Emirati culture.
- Visit the Paddock Area: If you can, check out the paddock area where camels are prepared for the races. It’s a great way to see the camels up close and appreciate the effort behind the event.
Final Thoughts
Camel racing in the UAE provides a unique glimpse into Emirati heritage, showcasing the exciting fusion of tradition and technology. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural traveler, or simply curious, camel racing is an unforgettable experience that’s both entertaining and enlightening. With free entry, accessible transport, and plenty of photo opportunities, it’s a must-see when in Dubai.
So, set your alarm, pack your essentials, and get ready to witness a truly unique sporting event!
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