Camel racing

Camel racing

Camel racing

Abstract
The research looks at one of the most famous Arab traditional sports of camel racing. The project
involves discovering the ways in which the use of camels have changed over time from
transportation to a source of pleasure through sports.

Keywords
Camel racing, Sports, Transportation

Camel racing

Introduction
The purpose of this report is to give insights about the camel racing which is an ancient Arabian
tradition. UAE has a rich history of camel racing, however the true essence of this tradition is
gradually being forgotten by our new generation which see this sports as a source of income
(Nowais, 2015). Also there has been several changes in the way camel racing is done in present
times, through interviewing a veteran camel racing enthusiast we will try to identify these
changes in camel racing that have occurred over time.

Background of the project

Oral history
According to Mr. Shaheen, the history of Camel racing dates back to our ancestors. In past, the
camels were used for going around different places along with family and carrying luggage. But
with advent of cars and airplanes, the use of camels has become limited only to sports and
enjoyment rather than as a mode of transportation.

Importance for UAE

The camels are important for UAE because of being a key part of countrys rich heritage. In past,
the people of UAE remained attached with camels because of their social as well as economic
value. The number of camels possessed by person was a source of pride for Arab people (Salem,
2010).

Reason for choosing particular subject

The reason for selecting this specific subject was to revive this declining sports activity invented
by our forefathers. Also, the reason for interviewing Mr. Shaheen was that he has a vast
experience of camel racing and as pointed out in the interview his ancestors were also involved
in this traditional sports, so the love for camel racing is deep rooted in this family. Because of his
extensive knowledge of this subject he was a perfect choice for this interview.

Research
Biographical Note
Name: Shaheen al Amimi

Camel racing

Mr. Shaheen is a camel owner and has taken part in several camel races.

Interview
Some of the major findings of interview are given below;

In accordance with the CLO1, the sports and leisure activity of camel racing has
significantly evolved over time. This sports has become more modernized and technology
oriented with the passage of time. Now robots are used in camel racing that increases the

efficiency of camels. Medical checkups of camels are also done through machines.
As per the CLO3, the camel racing is found to have positive outcomes on life. As stated
by Mr. Shaheen he was an anti-social person who avoided gathering, but because of
participating in camel racing he has started interacting more frequently with people. More

importantly he has gained patience by observing the behavior of these animals.

Also it has been identified during the interview that people now see camel racing as a

source of good income which they can earn through winning the race.
Generally the camels are named according to their age group. Some of the camels are

even named after famous personalities or the name of their owners.

The sports is not only watched by male participants, but the females and childrens are
also active viewer of this sports. The expatriates are also spotted during the camel races
held in different parts of UAE.

Conclusion
The research has been very informative as I have come to know about this sports in more detail
and the way in which camel racing has evolved over time. It is suggested that the government of
UAE should take special initiatives in order to ensure that this sports is followed by the new
generation.

Camel racing

Bibliography
Nowais, S. A. (2015, June 13). Special report: Summer signals camel racing season
for Emirati owners. Retrieved from The National UAE:
http://www.thenational.ae/uae/special-report-summer-signals-camel-racingseason-for-emirati-owners
Salem, F. (2010, March 27). Camels a key part of UAE's rich heritage. Retrieved from
Gulf NEWS: http://gulfnews.com/news/uae/general/camels-a-key-part-of-uaes-rich-heritage-1.603548