Custodian of Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival Sees Record Participation

The second annual Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival has recorded a significant surge in participation, with over 2,100 camel owners from 16 countries and 7,300 camels registered for the event, according to the Saudi Press Agency. Organized by the Saudi Camel Federation, the festival began January 27 at the Janadriyah Camel Race Track in Riyadh and features both robot rider and human rider races, with total prizes exceeding SAR70 million.

Context and Background

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival is a flagship cultural and sporting event that celebrates Saudi Arabia’s deep-rooted camel heritage. Now in its second year, the festival has grown rapidly, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving traditional Bedouin practices while modernizing their presentation. The event aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of promoting cultural and entertainment opportunities.

Key Details

This year’s edition saw 2,112 camel owners from 16 countries, up from 2,087 owners from 7 countries in 2024. The number of camels increased to 7,300 from 6,869. A notable addition is the new women’s race category, expanding the total races to seven. Female rider participation doubled from 15 to 30, highlighting growing inclusivity. The festival also offers a prize pool of over SAR70 million, distributed across various competitions.

International Impact

The threefold increase in participating countries — from 7 to 16 — underscores the festival’s rising global appeal and Saudi Arabia’s soft power in cultural diplomacy. International participants bring diverse camel breeds and expertise, fostering cross-cultural exchange. The event also boosts tourism and local economic activity in Riyadh.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The festival directly supports Vision 2030’s objectives of preserving national heritage, enhancing quality of life, and diversifying the economy through cultural events. By expanding participation and introducing new categories, Saudi Arabia positions itself as a global hub for traditional sports, strengthening its cultural identity while driving tourism and international engagement.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival?

A1. It is an annual camel racing event held in Riyadh, organized by the Saudi Camel Federation, celebrating Saudi Arabia’s camel heritage and promoting traditional sports.

Q2. When did the 2025 festival begin and end?

A2. The festival started on January 27, 2025, at the Janadriyah Camel Race Track and is set to conclude on February 5, 2025.

Q3. How many camel owners participated in the 2025 festival?

A3. A total of 2,112 camel owners from 16 countries registered for the 2025 edition.

Q4. How many camels were registered for the 2025 festival?

A4. The festival registered 7,300 camels for both robot rider and human rider races.

Q5. What is the total value of prizes offered at the festival?

A5. The total prize pool exceeds SAR70 million.

Q6. How many countries participated in the 2025 festival compared to 2024?

A6. In 2025, 16 countries participated, up from 7 countries in the previous year.

Q7. What new category was introduced in the 2025 festival?

A7. A new women’s race category was introduced, bringing the total number of camel races to seven.

Q8. How many female camel riders participated in 2025 versus 2024?

A8. The number of female riders increased from 15 in 2024 to 30 in 2025.

Q9. Who organized the festival?

A9. The festival is organized by the Saudi Camel Federation, the official body for camel racing in the Kingdom.

Q10. Where is the festival held?

A10. The festival takes place at the Janadriyah Camel Race Track in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Q11. Why is the festival named after the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques?

A11. The name honors the King of Saudi Arabia, who holds the title Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, reflecting royal patronage of the event.

Q12. How does the festival support Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage?

A12. It revives traditional camel racing practices, educates younger generations, and showcases Saudi heritage internationally.

Q13. What is the significance of the robot rider races?

A13. Robot rider races combine tradition with modern technology, allowing safer and more efficient competition while preserving the sport.

Q14. How does the festival promote tourism?

A14. The event attracts international participants and spectators, boosting local tourism and hospitality sectors in Riyadh.

Q15. Which international body reported the festival details?

A15. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported the participation numbers and other official details.

Q16. What are the main categories of races at the festival?

A16. The festival features robot rider races and human rider races, now including men’s, women’s, and various age categories.

Q17. How does the festival align with Vision 2030?

A17. It supports Vision 2030 goals of preserving heritage, improving quality of life, and diversifying the economy through cultural events.

Q18. What is the role of the Saudi Camel Federation?

A18. The federation regulates camel racing, organizes events, and promotes the sport locally and globally under the Ministry of Sports.

Q19. Were there any special guests or dignitaries at the festival?

A19. The event typically attracts senior Saudi officials and international guests, though specific names were not mentioned in the provided text.

Q20. How can one participate in future festivals?

A20. Interested owners and riders can register through the Saudi Camel Federation’s official channels, with eligibility criteria and deadlines announced ahead of each edition.

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