Experience the thrill of Al Shahaniya Camel Racing, where tradition meets speed in the heart of Qatar's desert. Dating back centuries, camel racing is an integral part of the region's heritage, combining ancient customs with modern competition.
Held in the vast sands of Al Shahaniya, this exhilarating sport attracts spectators from around the world. Watch as majestic camels, guided by skilled trainers, race across the desert landscape, reaching astonishing speeds.
Feel the excitement as crowds cheer on their favorite riders, immersed in the timeless spectacle of this traditional pastime. Beyond the races, visitors can explore the rich culture surrounding camel racing, from traditional music and cuisine to vibrant market stalls offering local crafts.
Al Shahaniya Camel Racing promises an unforgettable journey into Qatar's heritage, where the spirit of the desert comes alive amidst the thundering hooves and swirling sands.
Camel Racing, traditionally famous as the sport of sheiks is one of the major attractions in Qatar. Camel racing began in the 1970s as a form of entertainment at weddings.
A TV channel exclusively broadcasts camel races both in Qatar and abroad. Camel racing brings a lot of tourists from all around the world to Al Shahaniya.
The camel racing track at Al-Shahaniya is located about an hour's drive from downtown Doha.
The Racing Season: When to Visit
From November to February, you can enjoy lots of domestic and international Camel Racing tournaments every Friday.
Also during the rest of the months when there are no races you can visit the race track from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm and explore the camels practicing for upcoming races. You can also visit the nearby camel stables.
How to Get There: Travel Tips
You can also follow the race by driving a car along the paved road which runs parallel to the 10-km track. There is a virtual camel city on the outskirts of the track where you can explore a nice blend of the past and the present of Qatar.
The main competitions take place in March and April. The winner of the tournament is awarded the prestigious Golden Sword of the Father Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and the race is well-known as H H the Emir's Main Race.
The race distance varies in every tournament. The main festival runs over a distance of 6, 8, and 10 kilometers and the duration of races ranges between 1.5 hours to three or more.
The racer camels can run at speeds of up to 40 mph in short sprints and speeds of 30 mph for an hour.
You can enjoy the race from the shaded seatings in the great stand. Entry to these competitions is free and they usually take place from 7 am to 2 pm.
The use of child jockeys is banned in Qatar because of their age, size, and weight.
In the place of humans, you will find robot jockeys weighing about 25 kg strapped at the back of camels. The camel herder riding in a car alongside the camel can control the robot jockey through a special remote control.
They can also verbally abuse the camels via the built-in speakers. The convoy of cars that follows the camels along a road is packed with owners, trainers, and spectators cheering their favourite runners.
Nearby the racing track, you will find several veterinary clinics and surgeons, and shops selling camel food and camel ornaments.
How to reach Al Shahaniya Camel Race Track from Doha:
The race track is located on the Doha – Dukhan highway and is about 1-hour drive away from Doha downtown. Drive on the Dukhan Highway from the Al Rayyan area for about 35-40 km down.
When you pass the Al Rayyan Football Stadium, drive along till you reach the roundabout. Take the first exit from the roundabout and drive straight. You will see the Oryx sign.
Turn left from the sign and you will now see a signboard that reads ‘Camel Race'. You have arrived at your destination.
