The Camel in Culture
In Bedouin life, what was the camel’s main purpose?
Transport and survival
In which decade did modern camel racing begin to develop with oil wealth?
1960s–1970s)
What spice is sometimes used to paint the cheeks of winning camels?
Saffron
In racing poems, Sheikhs are praised as…
Protectors of tradition and leaders of progress
Camel racing helps preserve which national identity?
The Bedouin roots of the UAE
In the Qur’an, the camel is considered a…
Gift from God, symbol of stewardship
Which organization oversees camel racing in the UAE?
Camel Racing Association – CRA
Which authority often attends final races?
The President and ruling Sheikhs
Racing camels are celebrated in poetry for two main traits. Which ones?
Speed and beauty
Today, camel racing mixes tradition with…
Modern elements like TV, luxury prizes, robot jockeys
What did owning camels represent in tribal society?
Wealth, power, prestige
What is the main camel breed used in racing?
Hejin breed
The racing stadium is divided into three sections. Name one
Al-Minassa – Royal Box
What symbolic role do trainers play in racing poems?
Honored for skill and expertise
What do we call a recent tradition presented as ancient?
An “invented tradition”
Camels often appear in which type of Arab tradition?
Poetry and proverbs
True or False: Camel racing was already part of weddings and tribal festivals.
True
Besides the race itself, what other elements are part of the final ceremony?
Poetry, national anthem, military band, TV broadcast
Poetry is not only about culture, but also reinforces the _____ of rulers.
Political authority
Camel racing connects the Bedouin past with the…
Globalized and technological present