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The festival, organised by Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (ADACH), is supported by Western Region Development Council (WRDC) - the central co-coordinating body leading development and promoting opportunity in Al Gharbia, the Western Region of Abu Dhabi.
WRDC's support to the festival, dedicated to preserve the traditional camel-raising culture in the region, is part of its efforts to showcase the rich Arab culture and heritage. The festival includes a unique camel beauty competition called 'Mazayina', a camel auction, handicraft market, competition on methods of packaging dates, poetry contest, photography contest and heritage activities.
Commenting on the support to the festival, H.E. Mohamed Hamad Bin Azzan Al Mazrouei, WRDC's Director General, said:
"The Al Dhafra Camel Festival is an ideal opportunity to showcase the rich culture and tradition in Abu Dhabi. Through this innovative initiative, we are aiming to explore and restore the authentic heritage prevalent in the region. The festival aims to create awareness about the region while encouraging cross-cultural tourism, which will put Al Gharbia on an international tourism map."
More than 2,000 camel owners are taking part in the Al Dhafra Camel Festival 2009 - with more than 24,000 camels expected to compete. The inaugural Al Dhafra Festival had around 15,000 camels participating in the festival.
Al Mazrouei added: "WRDC is an active promoter and supporter of community initiatives that raise awareness about the region and its rich culture. This year, we are organising a unique handicraft competition, aimed at highlighting talent and innovation in the handicraft industry. The move will also instill the spirit of competition among the craftsmen and will help boost traditional art in line with the modern times."
During the festival, prizes worth over Dhs40m are being given away in various competitions. More than 500 organisers and supporters are supervising the various competitions and activities.
The aim of the Al Dhafra Camel Festival is to preserve the pedigree camels of the region, revive interest in Arab folklore festivities, activate cultural tourism, promote camel trade and boost the economy of the region.
Posted by Siba Sami Ammari
