In the shimmering sands of Abu Dhabi’s Western desert, where tradition meets opulence, a camel with “perfect toes” fetched a staggering $2.7 million.
Sold at the Mazayin Dhafra Camel Festival, which is a celebration of Bedouin heritage and draws thousands from across the Gulf.
A Royal Purchase
The buyer? Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and heir to one of the region’s most influential dynasties. His acquisition was part of a broader purchase of 16 camels totalling $4.5 million, underscoring the prestige and cultural significance these animals hold in Emirati society.
Beauty in the Details
The camel in question was a female, prized not for her racing prowess but for her aesthetic perfection — judged on features like neck length, head shape, and yes, toes. At the Mazayin Dhafra Camel Festival, beauty contests are serious business. More than 17,000 camels compete across categories defined by age and skin colour, with winners receiving luxury vehicles and a share of multimillion-dollar prize pools.
A Festival of Heritage
Held annually, the festival is a vibrant homage to Bedouin culture, organised by Abu Dhabi’s ruling family to preserve traditions that predate the oil boom. It’s not just about camels — it’s about identity. From camel milk competitions to poetry recitals, the event is a magnet for breeders, royals, and enthusiasts from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and beyond.
Camels as Cultural Icons
In the UAE, camels are more than livestock — they’re symbols of endurance, pride, and legacy. Racing camels are revered like thoroughbreds, and owning a prize-winning beauty is a mark of elite status. The industry remains robust, buoyed by family-run businesses and the patronage of Gulf royalty.