Camel races and other Qatar Sports Travel Tips

Theme: Sports Watching

Camel racing is a very popular sport amongst Qatar's elite, and a good racing camel will fetch many thousands of riyals. Until recently young boys from poor third-world countries were used as jockeys, but international pressure has put an end to this practice, and the camels are now ridden by robots! The owners drive around the outside of the track in their four-wheel-drives, egging on their camels and controlling the whip held by the robot with a remote control.

The racing season lasts through the winter until April or May, culminating at the 10 km Emir's race, which is where these photos were taken. The Emir himself was even in attendance.

For smaller races you can follow the camels around the track as the owners do, but for the Emir's race you will probably have to sit in the grandstand, from where you can see the start and finish live and watch the rest of the race on the TV screens.

Directions:
Just north of Al Shahaniya on the North Road about 20-30km from Doha. If the road is still closed at Al Shahaniya, follow the detour signs pointing you to the left to head towards Dukhan. Soon after you will see lots of camel stables on the right-hand side of the road. The racetrack is not signposted; turn right onto the dirt track at the second red and white camel-crossing road sign and it will lead you to the parking lot in front of the grandstand.


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