Camel-racing at Al Shahaniya, Qatar
Camel racing in Qatar is definitely exciting. Not only are they marvellous beasts who can easily run for miles and miles, but it is a truly participative sport. Everyone who goes can take part.
Next to the camel track there is a further track for the owners, who all drive alongside in their Land Cruisers, encouraging their entrant along. Every car is bursting with family and friends, and these 4wd's weave in and out of each other's way, with one eye on the camels and the other on the drivers nearby.
It's a miracle that there aren't lots of crashes, but near misses are part of the fun. Ask around to see if you can drive your car along with them. Be brave! Remember though: no honking allowed.
Our favourite races are for the youngsters. Camels are introduced to racing around the age of one. Not only are they still very fluffy and cute at that age, and all legs, they don’t always appreciate that they should all be running in the same direction. Marvellous
The place to go in Qatar is the Al Shahaniya Camel Race Track, and is around an hour’s drive west from down town Doha.
Camel races are not staged for tourists, which makes it a truly authentic experience. This also means that it is not always easy to figure out when they are happening. Ask your hotel to make enquiries for you.
Directions
Take the Dukhan road from Rayyan, about 35 - 40 kilometers. After the Al Rayyan football stadium, take the first exit in the roundabout, turn left at the Oryx sign, and then lookout for a sign to the camel races.
When to go
Camel racing is a winter sport, and occurs mainly on Friday and Saturday afternoons. The season begins around October running through to February, with the big events scheduled in March and April
Non race days
Even if it’s not a race day, if you get there around 9.30 am, you will usually encounter groups of camels being walked around by their handlers. Everyone is always up for a photo, and there are some great ones to be taken..
Make sure to wear relaxing, and appropriate, clothes and shoes.