Where to watch camel racing in Abu Dhabi?

The thundering sound of hooves echoing across the desert at sunrise isn’t something you expect near a glass-towered capital — yet Abu Dhabi makes it possible. Camel racing in Abu Dhabi isn’t just a sport. It’s a centuries-old cultural symbol woven deep into the fabric of Emirati identity. While skyscrapers and innovation define the city’s image, the soul of the desert lives on in its racetracks. Visitors and residents alike often wonder where and how to witness this unique spectacle. We’re going to walk you through everything — from the right timing to the etiquette, from the transportation to the type of experience you can expect. This guide has been prepared with the latest local insights by the editor of www.few.ae.

Al Wathba Camel Race Track captures the heart of the sport

Located roughly 45 kilometers east of Abu Dhabi city center, Al Wathba Camel Race Track is the most famous venue for camel racing in the region. The track isn’t signposted like a mainstream tourist spot. It sits nestled between wide desert stretches, behind a military checkpoint area, which adds to the sense of discovery when you arrive. The racing complex itself is huge, with multiple loops used for training and official events.

Camel races usually take place in the early mornings on weekends and during national holidays. The best months to go are from October to March, when the air is cool and the racing calendar is active. You don’t need a ticket. Entry is completely free, and you’re welcome to watch the action either from your car or along designated pedestrian areas.

Getting there requires a bit of planning but is part of the charm

Since Al Wathba is outside the main city zones, getting there involves either renting a car or hiring a local taxi. There’s no public transport to the area. Drivers familiar with Abu Dhabi’s outskirts will find the journey relatively straightforward — the E22 highway gets you most of the way, and clear GPS coordinates help complete the route. While the final few turns aren’t well marked, the increasing presence of camel farms is a strong sign you’re close.

For those who prefer not to drive, many local tour companies offer early-morning camel racing packages. These are often bundled with breakfast and brief introductions to the culture behind the sport. But keep in mind — nothing replaces the raw authenticity of going there yourself and watching the event unfold without filters or pre-arranged commentary.

Races combine heritage with modern racing tech

At first glance, camel racing might seem like a straightforward race. But beneath the surface lies a blend of ancient traditions and surprising modernity. The jockeys? They’re now remote-controlled robotic riders mounted atop the camels. Each robot is controlled from a four-wheel-drive SUV that follows the camel along the track. This shift to robotic jockeys came about in the early 2000s after the UAE banned the use of child jockeys, leading to the birth of a fully mechanized yet still thrilling version of the sport.

Each SUV trailing the camels has a driver and a handler operating the robot. They often shout encouragement through speakers and use light whips or buzzers to spur the camel on. The sheer coordination, both mechanical and animal, gives the races a visual rhythm unlike any other.

Early mornings reward those who make the effort

Camel races in Abu Dhabi begin just after sunrise. The first run can kick off as early as 6:30 AM. The timing matters not only for cooler temperatures but also for the camels’ health and performance. The energy on-site is a mix of excitement and laid-back desert calm. Spectators drive parallel to the track as the camels run, creating a bizarre convoy of speeding cars and thundering animals. Locals honk, cheer, and wave. If you’re watching for the first time, it might all feel a bit chaotic — but that’s part of the authenticity.

We recommend arriving no later than 6 AM if you’re aiming to catch the full experience. That gives you time to explore the area, see the camels up close before the race, and perhaps even chat with handlers if language and timing allow.

Photography is allowed but requires sensitivity

Capturing the moment is tempting, and yes, photography is generally allowed at Al Wathba. But discretion matters. Avoid photographing individuals without permission — especially locals tending the camels. Focus instead on the action, the animals, and the vehicles. A zoom lens helps keep a respectful distance while getting fantastic shots of the camels in motion. Tripods aren’t common, and professional gear might attract extra attention, so be subtle and respectful.

The camel paddocks reveal more than the race itself

Before the races start or in between rounds, wander over to the camel paddocks. Here, owners and handlers prepare their camels, applying traditional balms, adjusting robot saddles, and often reciting blessings. It’s a rare look into the deep cultural reverence given to these animals. Some camels cost more than sports cars, and their care routines reflect that investment.

You’re likely to notice differences in camel types too. Some are bred for sprinting, others for endurance. Their lean builds, colorful accessories, and even their distinct grunts create a microcosm of tradition that sits beside the race like a quieter, parallel story.

Local customs still shape the experience

Like many Emirati traditions, camel racing is rooted in hospitality. While there are no grandstands or formal snack vendors, don’t be surprised if a local offers you Arabic coffee or dates. Accepting these small gestures with gratitude is part of engaging with the event respectfully. Dress modestly, even though you’re in an outdoor setting. Long trousers, covered shoulders, and closed shoes are ideal. Sand can be unpredictable, and the racing area is not paved.

You can watch races during key cultural festivals too

While regular weekend races form the core calendar, special events often take place during National Day celebrations, Eid holidays, and Al Dhafra Festival season. These events feature not just camel racing but other desert sports and local crafts. If your visit coincides with such festivals, expect more elaborate ceremonies, bigger crowds, and chances to dive deeper into Bedouin heritage.

The Al Dhafra Festival, in particular, brings camel beauty contests, traditional souks, and heritage shows. During these periods, racing becomes just one element of a broader celebration, making it an ideal time for culture lovers.

Camel racing is evolving but still deeply rooted

Despite technological upgrades, camel racing remains an Emirati tradition at its core. What you’re seeing at Al Wathba is not just a race but a living bridge between past and present. It’s one of those rare experiences where the rhythm of the land, the pulse of the culture, and the adrenaline of sport come together — without a ticket booth or a guide’s script.

If you’re looking for something different, something unpolished yet unforgettable, waking up early and heading into the desert for a race is well worth the effort. It gives you a window into a lifestyle that isn’t staged for show but lived every week by hundreds of dedicated breeders, trainers, and fans.

This isn’t just about where to watch camel racing in Abu Dhabi. It’s about why you should make the journey — and how it connects you to something far older than the city skyline.