10 Things to Do at the Al Dhafra Camel Festival in Ghayathi, United Arab Emirates
The Al Dhafra Camel Festival is an annual event held in Ghayathi, United Arab Emirates. It is a celebration of the traditional Bedouin lifestyle and culture, and is a great opportunity to experience the heritage and beauty of the UAE. The festival takes place in December each year and is a must-see for anyone visiting the UAE. Here are ten things to do at the Al Dhafra Camel Festival:
1. Participate in the Camel Beauty Contest: One of the most popular events at the Al Dhafra Camel Festival is the camel beauty contest. Here, camels are judged on their beauty, strength and agility. The winners of the contest are awarded prizes and the camels are highly sought after by potential buyers.
2. Ride a Camel: What better way to experience the traditional Bedouin lifestyle than to ride a camel? You can take a ride around the festival grounds and get a taste of the UAE’s unique culture.
3. Watch the Camel Races: The Al Dhafra Camel Festival features a number of camel races, where riders compete for the fastest time. It’s a thrilling event to watch and the camels are trained to the highest standards.
4. Enjoy Traditional Music and Dance: During the festival, there are traditional music and dance performances. These performances are a great way to experience the culture of the UAE and the Bedouin lifestyle.
5. Sample Local Cuisine: The Al Dhafra Camel Festival is also a great opportunity to sample the local cuisine. There are a number of food stalls offering traditional dishes, such as shawarma and falafel.
6. Shop at the Souq: The souq is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and gifts. There are a wide range of items available, from traditional handicrafts to modern items.
7. Visit the Heritage Village: The Heritage Village is a replica of a traditional Bedouin village. Here, you can learn about the culture and lifestyle of the Bedouin people.
8. Enjoy the Camel Parade: The Camel Parade is a highlight of the Al Dhafra Camel Festival. Here, camels are decorated with traditional costumes and paraded around the festival grounds.
9. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: The Al Dhafra Camel Festival is a great opportunity to take a hot air balloon ride. You can soar above the festival grounds and get a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscape.
10. Participate in the Camel Market: The Camel Market is a great place to purchase camels. Here, you can find a wide range of camels for sale, from racing camels to breeding camels.
The Al Dhafra Camel Festival is a great opportunity to experience the culture and heritage of the UAE. From camel races to traditional music and dance, there’s something for everyone at this unique event. So, if you’re visiting the UAE, make sure you don’t miss out on the Al Dhafra Camel Festival.