Every winter, the golden dunes of Al Dhafra come alive with colour, sound, and celebration. As the sun rises over Madinat Zayed, you can hear the gentle hum of conversations, the rhythmic steps of camels being led into the showground, and the laughter of families gathering to watch the spectacle unfold. This isn’t just another event on the Emirati calendar — it’s the Madinat Zayed Mazayna, a festival that celebrates not only the beauty of camels but also the deep cultural heritage, unity, and pride of the UAE.
A Celebration Rooted in Heritage
The Madinat Zayed Mazayna is one of the key highlights of the Al Dhafra Festival, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, it represents far more than a camel beauty contest.
For many Emiratis, the camel — the “ship of the desert” — is a symbol of patience, endurance, and survival. Long before skyscrapers dotted the skyline, camels were an essential part of daily life, providing transport, food, and companionship across the desert. The mazayna, meaning “beauty contest” in Arabic, honours this heritage by celebrating the finest qualities of these remarkable animals.
At Madinat Zayed, the competition is fierce but respectful. Participants proudly present their camels in various categories, including Asayel (purebred light-coloured camels), Majahim (dark-skinned camels), and hybrids. Every detail matters — from the curve of the neck and the shine of the coat to the calm, noble demeanour that reflects generations of careful breeding.
A Family Tradition Passed Down Through Generations
For the camel owners, preparing for the Madinat Zayed Mazayna begins months in advance. Families work together to care for their camels — feeding, grooming, and training them with devotion. Winning a round is a source of immense pride, not just for the owner but for the entire tribe or family they represent.
The festival brings generations together. Elder breeders pass on their knowledge of camel care, while younger members learn the values of patience, respect, and connection to the land. For many children, watching their family’s camels enter the competition arena is a moment of pure pride — a living lesson in heritage that no classroom could teach.
It is this sense of continuity that makes the Madinat Zayed Mazayna so special. It’s not simply about trophies or recognition; it’s about keeping traditions alive in an ever-modernising world.
More Than Camels: A Celebration of Emirati Culture
While the camels take centre stage, the festival itself is a full expression of Emirati life. The surrounding area transforms into a vibrant cultural hub, featuring traditional souks, heritage villages, and performances that showcase the UAE’s rich artistic and culinary traditions.
Visitors can wander through the Al Dhafra Traditional Souk, where craftsmen display handmade jewellery, woven fabrics, and spices. The air fills with the aroma of Arabic coffee and freshly baked bread, while local poets and musicians tell stories of the desert’s past.
Alongside the camel competitions, visitors can also witness a range of heritage contests — from falconry and Arabian Saluki races to date mazayna (date beauty contests) and traditional cooking challenges. Each element reflects the diversity of Emirati heritage and the shared commitment to preserving it for future generations.
A Gathering of Communities and Nations
Every year, the Madinat Zayed Mazayna attracts thousands of participants and spectators — not only from across the UAE but also from neighbouring Gulf countries. For breeders from Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait, taking part is a matter of prestige and friendship. The festival becomes a meeting point where traditions are exchanged, business connections are formed, and cultural bridges are strengthened.
The event also draws tourists eager to experience authentic Emirati culture up close. Many visitors are struck by the warmth of the local community, where hospitality is not a gesture but a way of life. Sharing a cup of gahwa (Arabic coffee) with a local breeder often turns into an hour-long conversation about heritage, family, and pride.
In this way, the Madinat Zayed Mazayna does more than entertain — it connects people. It brings together generations, communities, and nations through a shared appreciation of heritage and authenticity.
The Spirit of Sustainability and Stewardship
Aligned with the Year of Sustainability, the Madinat Zayed Mazayna also reinforces the UAE’s dedication to protecting the environment and its living traditions. Through responsible camel breeding, water conservation practices, and waste management efforts, the festival reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan — to combine progress with preservation.
The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority plays a crucial role here, ensuring that the festival’s activities honour both culture and sustainability. Every aspect — from event logistics to livestock care — is guided by the principle of balance between heritage and modern environmental values.
This blend of tradition and sustainability serves as a model for how cultural events can evolve while staying true to their roots.
A Symbol of Pride and National Identity
For the people of the UAE, the Madinat Zayed Mazayna is a reflection of who they are. It embodies the values of pride, respect, and unity that have defined Emirati society for generations. Each camel represents not only a family’s legacy but also the nation’s enduring connection to its desert landscape.
The festival’s ability to bring together people from different backgrounds — whether breeders, visitors, or government representatives — is a reminder that heritage is a living, breathing part of national identity. It continues to evolve, adapt, and inspire.
In a time when modern life often feels fragmented, the Madinat Zayed Mazayna reminds everyone of what truly matters: community, connection, and pride in one’s roots.
Capturing the Heart of Abu Dhabi’s Heritage
Every image captured at the Madinat Zayed Mazayna tells a story — a moment of triumph, a child’s smile, a camel’s graceful stance, or the shared laughter of families enjoying the festivities. These moments reflect the true soul of Abu Dhabi, where heritage and humanity walk hand in hand.
If you’ve attended the festival or witnessed its beauty through your lens, you can be part of the story too. Visit This is Abu Dhabi to share your photographs and experiences. Selected images may be featured on Abu Dhabi Media Office’s platforms, showcasing your perspective of this extraordinary celebration of culture and community.
Conclusion: A Living Legacy in the Heart of the Desert
As the festival concludes each year, and the last rays of sunlight fade over the dunes of Madinat Zayed, what remains is more than a list of winners. It’s a legacy of pride, togetherness, and cultural continuity. The Madinat Zayed Mazayna reminds everyone that heritage is not confined to history books — it lives in the stories, traditions, and hearts of those who keep it alive.
Through its celebration of camels, culture, and community, the festival stands as a testament to Abu Dhabi’s vision — preserving the past while guiding the future.