Dubai camel races resume with robot jockeys

The Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack resumes in full swing track after a five-month suspension. The sport of millionaires restarted with new regulations to limit the spread of coronavirus among at-risk herders.

The last major circuit race in the UAE took place in Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathbah track on March 21, five days before the country introduced domestic travel restrictions to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

The centuries-old sport is one of the oldest in the Middle East. And for years, the camels were ridden by children until that was outlawed in 2002. Since then, robots have been used to ride the camel and are equipped with shock absorbers and GPS tracking system.

To ensure the events are safe, the UAE Camel Racing Federation has issued new guidelines for future races.

To limit the time handlers gather at the track, camels are not to leave their farms before 6am and tracks will only open at 6.30am

Robot jockeys must be mounted before camels leave farms, not at the racetrack.

Gathering at the side of the track is prohibited and people should maintain a five metre distance from others.

Attendees must wear a face mask and gloves at all times.

The UAE Camel Racing Federation will issue fines if owners fail to comply. Fines will be doubled for repeat offences.