The eighth National Day Camel Marathon for Expatriates recently took place at Dubai’s Al Marmoom track, drawing over 40 participants from 28 different nations. Organized by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Centre, this unique event offered residents a hands-on opportunity to engage with one of the UAE’s most historic sports. After undergoing professional training, competitors across various men’s and women’s categories showcased their riding skills in a high-spirited atmosphere, cheered on by friends, family, and members of their respective expatriate communities.

This year’s marathon saw a notable increase in diversity, highlighting a growing enthusiasm among residents to connect with the roots of their host country. Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmook, CEO of the Heritage Centre, emphasized that the event serves as more than just a race; it is a way for people from across the globe to step into the shoes of the UAE’s ancestors. By fostering a sense of shared achievement, the marathon uses the universal language of sport to build lasting friendships and reinforce the spirit of coexistence that defines the nation.