In a grand celebration of tradition and competition, the 321 شوطاً و32 رمزاً في انطلاقة مهرجان ولي عهد دبي للهجن at the Al Marmoom Racetrack is set to unfold tomorrow. Running until January 22, this ninth edition of the festival promises strong competition among participants vying for prestigious titles and symbolic prizes across a variety of races.
Return of the Sheikh‘s Symbolic Races
This year’s edition marks the return of the Sheikh’s symbolic races, considered one of the festival’s highlights. These races carry significant historical and moral weight and dominate the schedule, forming the centerpiece of the competitive events. The festival will feature a total of 321 races, including 112 designated for the Sheikh’s camels, divided into various categories: 33 for the young ones (اللقايا), 29 for the second age group (الإيذاع), 27 for mature camels (الثنايا), and 23 for the seasoned ones (الحول والزمول).
Robust Participation from Tribal Camels
The festival will also see significant participation from the camels of tribal members, showcasing intense competition across 209 races. This includes 65 races for the young ones, 40 for the second age group, 36 for mature camels, and 34 for both seasoned camels and the older categories. The emphasis on tribal camels highlights their importance in the sport and the rich heritage of camel racing in the region.
Production Categories Highlighting Sustainability
Furthermore, the program emphasizes production through 85 dedicated races, with four for the Sheikh’s camel institutions and 81 for tribal camel production. This focus aims to promote the sustainability of camel racing and enhance the genetic quality of racing camels, supporting a thriving tradition that continues to engage fans and participants alike.
Intense Competition for Symbolic Prizes
The symbolic competitions emerge as the pinnacle of challenge in this festival, with contenders battling for 32 prestigious symbols. For the Sheikh’s camels, there are eight symbols, including three awarded under the title “كأس ولي العهد,” three for “بندقية ولي العهد,” along with “شداد ولي العهد” and “سيف ولي العهد.” In contrast, the tribal camels will contend for 24 symbols, featuring nine titled “كأس ولي عهد دبي,” 11 rifles, plus “شداد” and “خنجر,” alongside the renowned “سيف ولي عهد دبي.”
A Cultural Experience at the Heritage Village
Coinciding with the races, the Heritage Village at Al Marmoom adds an enriching experience for visitors, reflecting the authentic Emirati heritage while enhancing the spectacle of the camel races. Abdullah Ahmed Faraj, Director of Media, Marketing, and Events at the Dubai Camel Racing Club, emphasized that the participation of the Heritage Village in the festival is supported through collaboration with various partner entities. This cooperative effort exemplifies united governmental initiatives to showcase cultural events that honor Dubai’s prestigious standing.
As the festival kicks off, excitement builds for both competitors and spectators alike, marking yet another chapter in the vibrant legacy of camel racing in Dubai.