Camel racing is the traditional sport of the Gulf, and Al Wathba, about 45 minutes south-east of Abu Dhabi, is the emirate’s principal track. In the cooler months long-legged racing camels run a sandy circuit several kilometres long while their owners drive alongside on a parallel road, shouting instructions by radio.
The jockeys are robots: small remote-controlled machines with a whip arm, which replaced child jockeys across the UAE in the mid-2000s. The mix of ancient sport, pick-up trucks and gadgetry is unlike anything else you will see on a trip here.
What to see and do: Al Wathba Camel Race Track
Watch a morning race
Races are usually held early, often soon after sunrise, mainly on weekend mornings during the season. Spectators stand at the rail or in the grandstand; entry is normally free.
See the training
Even with no race on, strings of camels in bright blankets are exercised on the tracks around Al Wathba in the early morning and late afternoon.
Visit during a festival
The big meetings — and the Sheikh Zayed Festival held at Al Wathba in the winter months — add heritage markets, food and far larger crowds.
How to get there: Al Wathba Camel Race Track
- By car or taxi: around 45 minutes from the city via the Abu Dhabi–Al Ain road. Agree a waiting time or return fare with a taxi, as it is hard to find one at the track.
- There is no practical public transport.
Insider tips
- There is no single reliable online fixture list. Ask your hotel concierge or a tour operator to confirm race days before setting out.
- Dress modestly, and ask before photographing people.
- Stay behind the rails and well clear of the vehicles that follow the race.
Tours & tickets that fit: Al Wathba Camel Race Track
These well-rated experiences pair best with Al Wathba Camel Race Track:
Morning safari from €43 Abu Dhabi: Morning Desert Adventure with Sandboarding & Camel Ride
Another good-value morning option. The itinerary of this listing has changed over time, so read the current description for exactly which stops and activities are included on your date.
- One of the lowest starting prices when we checked
- Sandboarding and a camel ride
- Morning timing that keeps the evening free
Morning safari from €44 Abu Dhabi: Morning Desert Safari with Camels, Quad Bike & Sandboarding
The best-selling morning trip: all the action of a safari — dune drive, sandboard, camels, quads — without the dinner and shows, and home in time for lunch. A good fit for cruise days, flight days and anyone who would rather spend the evening in the city.
- Morning pickup and back by early afternoon
- Dune bashing, sandboarding and a camel ride
- Quad bike time, with options on the listing
