The Al Dhafra Festival is a significant event in the UAE and GCC countries that celebrates the cultural importance of camels. The festival highlights the role of camels in the region’s heritage and culture, with a focus on purebred breeds like Asayel, Majahim, Asayel hybrids, and Wadh. These camel mazayna competitions take place in Abu Dhabi.
This festival, scheduled from January 20 to February 8, 2024, includes various competitions such as the Sweihan mazayna, Razeen mazayna, Madinat Zayed mazayna, and the final festival. It is organized by the Cultural Programmes and Heritage Festivals Committee – Abu Dhabi.
The 17th edition of the Al Dhafra Festival has expanded to include a total of 361 rounds for all participating camel breeds, increasing the number of rounds from the previous edition.
The festival’s goal is to shine a spotlight on the region and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading destination for camel mazaynas, hosting a wide range of heritage events.
Furthermore, the festival aims to revive Emirati and Arab heritage through camel beauty competitions, share the UAE’s cultural and humanitarian message globally, and promote values of loyalty and belonging. It’s a celebration of tradition, culture, and the cherished role of camels in the UAE and the GCC.
