Al Dhafra Festival 2026 bursts into action today in Madinat Zayed, Al Dhafra Region, marking the grand finale of its 19th edition. Organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority with ADNOC and Modon Group sponsorship, it runs until January 22. This heritage powerhouse honors camels’ vital role in Emirati culture, preserving traditions for generations.
Elite camel owners from UAE and GCC converge for beauty contests and races. The event boosts national pride, local economy, and Abu Dhabi’s status as a global camel fest hub.
Al Dhafra Festival 2026 Heritage Competitions and Massive Prizes
Expect 2,655 prizes totaling over Dh59 million across thrilling events:
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Camel beauty contests (118 rounds: Mahalliyat, Majahim, Wadh, Asayel crossbreeds; Dh53.797M in 1,135 prizes).
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Milking competitions (6 rounds, Dh1.8M for top 10 in Mahalliyat and Majahim categories).
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Falcon beauty, Arabian horse races, Saluki races and beauty, Naeemi sheep beauty.
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Dates, packaging, shooting, sour milk contests, Al Dhafra Arabian horse beauty.
These draw crowds, blending competition with tourism.
Camel Beauty and Milking Stars of Al Dhafra Festival 2026
Camel fans, rejoice—118 rounds spotlight purebreds like Mahalliyat and Majahim. Milking heats up with four Mahalliyat categories (Arabiyat Talad, Khawawir Talad, etc.) and two Majahim opens. Winners snag Dh1.8 million across 60 prizes.
Vibrant Al Dhafra Festival 2026 Heritage Market
The Heritage Market pulses with life: heritage shops, pavilions, food trucks, kids’ games, folk performances, and partner booths. A performance stage hosts daily shows, immersing visitors in Emirati vibes.
Taste Tradition at Al Dhafra Festival 2026 Mekshat Camp
Opposite the main venue, the Mekshat Camp serves authentic Emirati dishes with live cooking demos. Learn Arabic coffee rituals—”Sana‘ Al Qahwa”—from brewing to guest-welcoming customs in a cozy heritage setting.
Record 10,000 Shooters at Al Dhafra Festival 2026 Shooting Camp
Al Dhafra Shooting Club reports 10,000 participants in electronic shooting, air pistol/rifle, archery, and arrows—part of the Liwa International Festival until January 3. Vice Chairman Abdullah Hamad Al Marri praised the event for promoting safe shooting sports with expert trainers on hand.
Al Dhafra Festival 2026 cements Al Dhafra’s heritage legacy. Don’t miss the action!
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