ABU DHABI / WAM
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, attended a lunch banquet hosted by Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Advisor to the UAE President and Chairman of the Camel Racing Federation, in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi. The event was attended by a number of prominent camel owners from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
H.H. exchanged cordial conversations with the attendees, focusing on the importance of camel racing and the role of the annual closing festival, “Al Wathba Final 2025”, in strengthening the stature of this traditional sport. The festival is considered one of the region’s most prominent events, consistently achieving success across various levels.
H.H. also toured the new 8-kilometer camel racing track in Al Wathba, which was inaugurated in conjunction with the start of the Al Wathba Final 2025. The track was completed in just 60 days, under the direct supervision of HH, marking a qualitative leap that opens new horizons for the sport of camel racing.
HH praised the infrastructure of the new track, emphasising that the growth and spread of camel racing are a result of the continued support and patronage of the wise leadership. This has made it one of the most prominent traditional sports, highly regarded by heritage enthusiasts. The reception featured traditional performances and folk songs presented by heritage troupes, celebrating the presence of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed. The vibrant cultural display reflected national pride in the country’s rich heritage and conveyed a spirit of welcome and appreciation.