Taif to Host Arab Rounds at 2026 Camel Festival

Camel sports in Saudi Arabia will welcome Arab competitors to the 2026 Crown Prince Camel Festival, with dedicated Arab rounds set to take place at Taif Camel Square in Taif Governorate. The festival runs from 3 to 13 September 2026.

The Arab rounds are open to non-Gulf Arab member federations and will feature both human and robotic riders. Competitions will span multiple camel categories and racing distances, broadening the field beyond the traditional Gulf line-up.

The 2026 schedule includes 248 races, with total prize money exceeding SAR50 million. Among the headline awards is the Crown Prince Camel Festival Cup for Saudi participants, which carries a prize of SAR500,000.

Why it matters

Camel racing holds deep cultural significance across the region, and the addition of Arab rounds positions the festival as a wider showcase for the sport. The mix of human and robotic riders reflects how heritage competitions continue to blend tradition with modern technology.

For residents and visitors in Taif and nearby cities, the ten-day event offers a chance to experience one of the Kingdom's most celebrated traditional sports up close. Official daily session timings for the Arab rounds, along with any entry or spectator details, have not yet been announced.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving