Five-Day Ardha Camel Racing Event Begins in Wilayat of Barka

Ardha Camel Racing Competition Begins at Al-Falij Square in Barka

Barka: The traditional Ardha camel race kicked off today at Al-Falij Square in the Wilayat of Barka, as part of the local camel racing competitions organized by the Oman Camel Racing Federation within its annual program for the 2025/2026 sports season. The competition will continue for five days, concluding on 29 January, with wide participation from camel owners representing various wilayats of the Sultanate of Oman.

The first day of the event featured two racing tracks. The first track was allocated to the wilayats of Muscat, Seeb, Bausher, Al Amerat, Barka, Bidbid, and Samail, while the second track was designated for participants from Al Musannah, Wadi Al Maawil, Nakhl, Al Rustaq, and Al Awabi, in accordance with an approved schedule that takes into account the diversity and geographical distribution of participants.

The Ardha race is considered one of the most prominent heritage events accompanying camel racing activities, owing to its cultural and social significance, which reflects the deep-rooted connection between Omani society and camels as an authentic symbol of popular heritage and a historical value firmly embedded in the national memory.

Dr. Salem bin Saif Al Maamari, Executive Director of the Oman Camel Racing Federation, affirmed that organizing this event falls within the Federation’s strategy to revive and preserve popular heritage while presenting it in a modern organizational framework that keeps pace with the development witnessed by camel racing in the Sultanate of Oman.

He explained that the race contributes to enhancing community participation, supporting camel owners and trainers, and encouraging younger generations to take an interest in this ancient heritage. He added that the selection of Al-Falij Square as the venue was based on its readiness and suitable infrastructure to host such events, as well as its strategic location, which helps attract a large audience.

Dr. Al Maamari noted that the race is witnessing strong participation from various wilayats across the Sultanate, within an integrated organizational framework that takes into account safety standards and competitive fairness. He emphasized that such events play a vital role in strengthening national identity, consolidating heritage values, and supporting the sustainability of camel racing within Oman’s sporting and cultural landscape.