Al Maqam Camel Racetrack
Experience the thrill of traditional camel racing in the UAE, a unique spectacle where camels race without riders, guided by remote-controlled jockeys...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, prime race time
Al Maqam Camel Racetrack
Best Time
Cooler temps, prime race time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of traditional camel racing in the UAE, a unique spectacle where camels race without riders, guided by remote-controlled jockeys.
"It's a unique place to experience the culture and heritage. People are incredibly friendly!"
Confirm Race Schedule
Schedules vary, especially during Ramadan. Call ahead or check local listings for exact race days and times .
Arrive Early for Best Seats
Get there before the first race to find a good vantage point and soak in the atmosphere .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Camel Racing Action
Witness the thrill of camels racing without riders, guided by remote-controlled jockeys. A truly unique cultural spectacle.
Traditional Desert Ambiance
Soak in the desert atmosphere and experience a slice of Emirati heritage at this historic racing venue.
Family-Friendly Fun
A great spot for kids to enjoy the excitement and learn about local traditions in a relaxed setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Experience the Spectacle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Race Schedule
Schedules vary, especially during Ramadan. Call ahead or check local listings for exact race days and times.
Arrive Early for Best Seats
Get there before the first race to find a good vantage point and soak in the atmosphere.
Experience Remote Jockeys
Watch how owners control their camels with remote-controlled jockeys – a fascinating modern twist on tradition.
Free Entry!
Enjoy the spectacle without any cost. It's a fantastic way to experience local culture for free.
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Race Schedule
Schedules vary, especially during Ramadan. Call ahead or check local listings for exact race days and times.
Arrive Early for Best Seats
Get there before the first race to find a good vantage point and soak in the atmosphere.
Experience Remote Jockeys
Watch how owners control their camels with remote-controlled jockeys – a fascinating modern twist on tradition.
Free Entry!
Enjoy the spectacle without any cost. It's a fantastic way to experience local culture for free.
Desert Vibes
Embrace the desert setting; it's a great place to unwind and enjoy the unique landscape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Al Maqam Camel Race Track as a unique and amazing cultural experience, especially for its free entry and traditional atmosphere. The spectacle of camels racing without riders, guided by remote-controlled jockeys, is a major highlight. Some find the early morning schedule challenging, but the overall sentiment is one of fascination and enjoyment of Emirati heritage.
"Race period is in winter (perhaps Nov.-Apr., with more details available on the phone as schedule is also affected by Ramadan).
Race days are typically FR, SA and SU, and race hours 7:00am - 10:30am
(perhaps afternoon as well sometimes, such as 3:30pm - 6:30pm).
There are about 25 races in a day.
Camels do not have riders;
Instead, they carry on their back a dummy jockey remotely controlled by their owner/manager to give the pace.
There are 2 race tracks in Al Wathba, one 8 km long and another one 6 km long (covering the 3km, 5km and 6km races)..
Entrances fee: 00 AED"
Manolis Lekkas
"Nice location and Amazing Amenities!"
Franco Kolengaden
"Great place to unwind in the sands. Located right beside Al Wathba camel race track. The kids love it here"
Parvez Gul Shah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The track is located in the Al Wathba area. While public transport might be limited, driving is the most convenient option. Many visitors use ride-sharing services or taxis. It's advisable to use a GPS or map application for precise directions.
Al Maqam Camel Race Track is located in Al Wathba, which is near Abu Dhabi. It's a drive from Dubai, typically around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Consider it a day trip if you're based in Dubai.
Parking is generally available at the race track, especially on race days. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot, as it can get busy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Al Maqam Camel Race Track is free! This makes it an accessible and fantastic way to experience local culture and heritage without any cost.
Race days are typically on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the winter season (November to April). Races usually run from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM, with potential afternoon sessions from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Always confirm the schedule as it can change.
Since entry is free, no advance booking is required. Just show up on a race day to enjoy the spectacle.
Yes, the track hosts various camel racing events and championships throughout the season, including female camel racing series.
📸 📸 Photography & Videography
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed. Many visitors capture the unique action and desert scenery.
Early morning light offers beautiful golden hour shots as the sun rises over the desert. The action on the track itself provides dynamic photo opportunities throughout the races.
While generally permitted, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive filming. Professional or commercial filming might require special permits.
🎫 🐪 Onsite Experience
The most unique aspect is that camels do not have riders. Instead, they carry lightweight, remote-controlled robot jockeys, adding a futuristic element to this traditional sport.
While direct interaction with racing camels might be limited for safety reasons, the atmosphere is often friendly, and you might have opportunities to observe trainers and the general setup.
The track boasts nice amenities, providing a comfortable viewing experience. Details might vary, but expect facilities to support spectators during events.
Absolutely! Children often love the excitement of the races and the unique sight of camels competing. It's a great cultural experience for the whole family.
Comfortable, light clothing is recommended, especially for morning races. Consider sun protection like hats and sunglasses, and wear comfortable shoes as you might be walking around the venue.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Arrive early to get good viewing spots and keep children entertained. The open desert environment provides space for them to move around (under supervision, of course). It's a memorable way to introduce them to Emirati heritage in a fun and engaging way.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The dynamic action of the races, with camels in full stride, creates exciting opportunities for capturing movement and speed.Key photo opportunities: Focus on the camels themselves, the remote-controlled jockeys, the trainers, and the overall atmosphere of the event. The vast desert backdrop adds a dramatic element to your images.
+1🌍 Culture & Heritage Seekers
What to expect: Observe the unique racing style with robot jockeys, feel the energy of the crowd, and appreciate the dedication of the camel owners and trainers. It's an immersive experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spectacle of Camel Racing
The races themselves are a thrilling display of speed and endurance. Camels compete on tracks of varying lengths, with 8 km and 6 km tracks being common at Al Wathba.
It's a captivating experience that offers a glimpse into the passion and dedication involved in preserving this heritage.Visitors often describe the experience as 'amazing' and 'unique,' highlighting the blend of tradition and modern technology. It's a chance to witness a sport that is both exhilarating and culturally significant, offering a memorable outing for all who attend.
A Glimpse into Emirati Heritage
Visiting the track provides an authentic opportunity to connect with this history and understand its importance to the local community.The atmosphere at the track is often described as incredibly friendly, with visitors sometimes even being invited to join the excitement.
For many international visitors, it's a novel and exciting experience. The sight of thousands of camels and their owners gathering for these events is impressive.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit