News DeskAlUla, Saudi Arabia – The ancient city of AlUla is set to host two major new camel racing competitions this week, further cementing its reputation as the home of heritage sports from across the region.
The Arab Camel Cup and the inaugural World Championship for International Camel Endurance will take place on May 3rd and 4th respectively at AlUla’s Mugheira Heritage Sports Village.
The Arab Camel Cup on May 3rd will feature riders from 16 Arab nations competing over 13 rounds for prize money exceeding 3 million Saudi riyals.
The following day, the World Endurance Championship will test camels and riders to their limits over a grueling 16km two-stage race. With a 2 million riyal total prize pool, male and female riders aged 18 and over will compete in categories including Hail, Thanaya Bakkar, Zamoul, and Thanaya Qadan camel breeds.
“Hosting these new events is an exciting milestone in developing heritage sports in northwest Arabia,” said Ziad Alsuhaibani, Chief Sports Officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), which organized the competitions.
He added, “RCU is excited to welcome the best teams, owners and riders to participate in thrilling new competitions showcasing traditional sports and AlUla’s purpose-built facilities.”
The events support Saudi Arabia’s “Year of the Camel” cultural initiative and RCU’s plans to champion the cultural legacy of camel and heritage sports while creating socio-economic opportunities aligned with Vision 2030.
With an international audience of spectators expected, the Arab Camel Cup and World Endurance Championship add to AlUla’s growing year-round calendar of cultural and sporting events.
