Beauty pageants, races and even just a loyal companion, camels are synonymous with Saudi Arabia and to celebrate this deep connection, the Kingdom will celebrate 2024 as the Year of the Camel.
Throughout the year, visitors and residents can expect to see a series of events, exhibitions, educational programmes pop up around the country showcasing camel-inspired activities that impact Saudi lifestyle, such as the arts, fashion, cuisine, and sustainability practices.
While many details of the year-long cultural programme have yet to be revealed, visitors will be able to check out 2,000-year-old, life-size camel carvings on desert rocks in Al-Jawf in the Kingdom’s northern region, and experience ‘Alheda’a’, a special oral tradition used by camel herders to communicate with the animals.
And of course, a year dedicated to camels wouldn’t be complete without a few camel races and beauty pageants throw in to crown the most beautiful camel in the kingdom.
Other initiatives and events will also feature local artists, writers, and artisans who will promote and protect Saudi Arabia’s camel-themed ancestral traditions in the form of art, literature, and music.
Currently it is estimated there are 1.8 million camels in Saudi Arabia and with more events to be announced in the following months, the Year of the Camel is under starters orders...
