Abu dhabi: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, took part in the 3rd Al Dhafra Camel Racing Festival, observing the Haqayeq category race at Madinat Zayed’s Al Dhafra Racetrack.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed commended President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his support of heritage sports and camel racing, noting its importance in preserving the UAE’s cultural legacy.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed emphasized the leadership’s commitment to continuing the work of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan by promoting cultural traditions among future generations. After the races, he crowned the winners of the Haqayeq category, acknowledging their success and the wide participation from camel owners across the GCC. He stressed the significance of camel racing as a national tradition that ties Emiratis to their historical roots.
The festival’s third edition was praised for its organization, and H.H. Sheikh Ham
dan bin Zayed highlighted the need to further develop heritage sports within the community. Participants and camel owners showed gratitude for the leadership’s ongoing support, which is evident in the heritage events that invite participation from the UAE and the GCC.
The festival includes 107 races in three categories-Haqayeq, Luqaya, and Eydha-with 24 major trophies distributed, eight per category. The event also offers cash prizes for the top ten winners in each race. Notable attendees included Humaid Saeed Al Neyadi, Director of the Office of the President’s Court; Nasser Mohammed Al Mansouri, Under-Secretary of the Ruler’s Representative Court in Al Dhafra Region; and Abdulla Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director of the Camel Race Association.