Experiences

Camel Racing in Qatar

Camel racing season in Qatar runs from September through April. The race track is located in Shahaniyah, just after Mall of Qatar.

This weekend, we had the unique experience of watching the races and going behind the scenes with @murexqatartours.

The tour includes:

• Racing alongside the camels

• Getting up close to these majestic animals at both the start and finish lines.

• Learning fascinating details about the races, including the robots that ride on the camels’ backs.

Our English-speaking guide made the experience even more insightful.

New In Doha tips:

Free Entry: The public can attend the races for free, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

Cars Racing Alongside: Owners, trainers, spectators, and police drive alongside the racing camels in their vehicles. It’s not just the camels racing—it felt like the cars were too!

Driving Safety: If you’re driving your own vehicle, it can feel quite risky and dangerous if you’re unfamiliar with the setup. You could easily become an obstacle, and there’s a risk of being involved in an accident.

Missing Out on Details: Without a tour, you might miss out on key information and insights that make the experience truly enjoyable. The tour allows you to learn about the sport’s history, the use of robotic jockeys, and more.

Up-Close Access: The tour also gives you the opportunity to stand at the start line with the camels and witness them take off. At the finish line, you’re right there as they race to the end, and you even get to handle the robots.

Transportation: @murexqatartours provides transport to and from the track, with the bus departing from Doha. If you go on your own, the roads are good and there’s plenty of signage to guide you.

Unpredictable Schedule: Races can be canceled at the last minute, so there’s always a risk that you might arrive and find no race happening. Morning races typically begin around 5:30am-6:00 am, while afternoon races can vary.

Restricted Access: At some events, the public may not be allowed in, so there’s a chance you could be turned away.

@murexqatartours offers regular Camel Racing Tours and provides an excellent experience. Make sure to wear sneakers and clothes you don’t mind getting dusty, as you will be standing on the track. Restrooms are available at both the start and finish lines.

We thoroughly enjoyed the detailed explanations and immersive experience during our tour.