Traditional Camel Racing

Camel racing in Saudi Arabia is a traditional and extremely popular sport worldwide. The greatest spots to watch the best-bred camels galloping frantically in the race are in Riyadh, Taif, and Sharurah. Around 100 camels compete in these races on a typical race day, traveling a 6- to 10-kilometer circuit. The camels can travel up to 40 kilometers per hour when assisted by the jockeys on their backs and the cavalry of jeeps that follow them. These animals make for an exciting sight as they race for the top at such incredible speeds. The ideal approach for tourists to see these events is to go to the racetracks with a pre-arranged tour group.

In 1964, Saudi Arabia's Heritage Festival included the first-ever official camel racing. Ten years later, in 1975, camel racing was fully professionalized in Saudi Arabia. Now, with prizes totaling millions of Saudi Riyals, the government holds huge camel festivals and races. Additionally, the races promote Saudi Arabian tradition and non-religious tourism among local and international travelers. Additionally, by bringing people from various backgrounds together for the sole goal of enjoying the event, these races reinforce solidarity.