In a move reflecting Egypt's leading position in organizing major sporting events, and confirming its growing interest in ancient heritage sports, the General Assembly of the Arab Camel Racing Federation approved Sharm El Sheikh as the host city for the third Arab Camel Racing Championship, scheduled to be held in 2026. This decision comes as a culmination of the Egyptian efforts made in developing the infrastructure of this authentic sport, especially in the South Sinai Governorate.
Details of the decision and the importance of the choice
The selection of Sharm El Sheikh, the City of Peace, to host the third edition of the championship was unanimous among the members of the General Assembly, given the city's world-class tourism and sporting potential. Sharm El Sheikh boasts one of the best camel racing tracks in the Middle East, a track that has undergone tremendous development in recent years to meet international standards, making it capable of accommodating thousands of participating camels and their owners from across the Arab world.
Camel racing: A revival of authentic Arab heritage
Camel racing is more than just a sporting competition; it is an integral part of the cultural identity and heritage of the Arab region. The roots of this sport stretch deep into history, where camels were the Arab's companions in his travels and his means of survival in the desert. Over time, this relationship has evolved into an organized sport that enjoys widespread official and popular support, aiming to preserve purebred Arabian camel lineages and strengthen the connection to the rich past.
The economic and tourism dimensions of the tournament
The 2026 Arab Camel Racing Championship is expected to generate a significant economic and tourism boost for Sharm El Sheikh and the South Sinai Governorate in general. These events fall under the umbrella of "sports tourism," attracting large numbers of participants, fans, and tourists from the Gulf countries and other nations interested in this sport. This influx of tourists directly contributes to increased hotel occupancy rates and stimulates buying and selling activity, in addition to the booming market for camels and related supplies, which experiences a surge in activity during the championships.
Strengthening Arab ties
These championships serve as a bridge of communication between Arab peoples, bringing together tribal members, landowners, and those interested in heritage from the Atlantic to the Gulf in an atmosphere of fair competition and brotherhood. Egypt's hosting of this event in 2026 underscores the depth of Egyptian-Arab relations and its pivotal role in hosting events that unite the Arab world and preserve its shared cultural heritage.
The relevant authorities in Egypt are already preparing to put in place the organizational and logistical plans to ensure that the championship is presented in a manner befitting the name of Egypt and the status of this ancient sport, so that the 2026 edition will be a landmark in the history of Arab camel championships.
