Al Dhafra Festival

Al Dhafra Festival 2025–2026

Ever wondered what it’s like to walk among camels, falcons, and Bedouin stories? From October 28 to January 31, the Al Dhafra Festival is just that. In the Al Gharbia area, close to Madinat Zayed, there is a living celebration of the Emirati desert heritage. This festival draws visitors from across the UAE and beyond who come to see camel beauty contests, traditional crafts, horse and dog races, falconry, and more. With Captain Dunes, your visit becomes simple transport, guided tours, and staying nearby, all sorted.

Event Highlights / What to Expect

Here’s what makes Al Dhafra Festival special:

• Mazayna / Camel Beauty Contest: Camels from all over are groomed and judged in a grand beauty pageant, a highlight of the festival.
• Horse & Saluki Races: Watch Arabian horses and Saluki dogs race across desert tracks in thrilling competitions.
• Falconry & Traditional Animal Events: Falcons soar, and other heritage displays like camel milking, sheep beauty shows, and more celebrate local traditions.
• Cultural Crafts & Souqs: Explore market stalls selling handicrafts, weaving, date displays, traditional outfits, and local food.
• Live Performances & Music: Poets, folk singers, and dance groups bring stories and music alive in desert tents.
• Heritage Competitions: Activities like shooting, archery, date palm packaging, and camel sitting contests add more fun and tradition.

Dates, Timings & Venue Info

• Venue/Location: Al Gharbia region, near Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi
• Dates: 28 October – 31 January (across the months)
• Timings: Daytime to evening events (check daily schedule for start times)
• Tickets/Entry: Entry is often open to the public; some events may have registration or ticket fees (check the festival website closer to the dates).
• Best Time to Visit: Late morning or evening, cooler temperatures, better lighting for photos

How To Reach

• By Car/Taxi: The festival site is in the western region, near Madinat Zayed. You can drive from Abu Dhabi city; it takes a few hours, depending on where you stay.
• By Public Transport: There may be bus links to Madinat Zayed and local taxis from there to the festival grounds.
• With Captain Dunes: The best option is to book a full package with Captain Dunes. They’ll arrange pickup, drop-off, and transport between festival zones so you don’t have to worry about navigating desert roads.

Nearby Attractions / Things to Do Around

• Madinat Zayed: Explore this regional town's local markets, small shops, and community life.
• Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali) Edges: If you like deserts, you can drive out toward the emptiest parts and enjoy dune vistas.
• Local Villages & Oasis Areas: Visit smaller Bedouin villages around Al Dhafra to see real desert life.
• Desert Photography Sites: The dunes around the festival are ideal for dawn/sunset shots, silhouettes, camel shadows, and dunes.

Why Should You Go

Al Dhafra Festival gives you a rare chance to see Emirati heritage in action, not in a museum, but alive in the desert. You’ll witness traditions that have been carried for generations, join local celebrations, and experience a side of the UAE many travelers never get to see. Whether you love animals, culture, photography, or just unique travel stories, this is a must-see.

Insider Tips

• Best Photo Spots: In front of camel rows at dawn or silhouette shots against dunes.
• What to Wear: Comfortable clothes, light layers, a sunhat, and good walking shoes.
• Crowd Tips: Arriving early in the morning is quieter. Evenings may be busier.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry water. Desert air is dry.
• Family Tips: Kid zones, rest tents, and sand-shaded seating help families with children.

Why Choose Captain Dunes

Al Dhafra Festival is not just another event; it’s a journey into Emirati soul and desert heritage. With Captain Dunes, you don’t stress over logistics, transport, or direction. You just arrive and enjoy camel pageants, races, music, crafts, and desert skies, all without the hassle.

Book your Al Dhafra Festival adventure with Captain Dunes and let the desert tell its stories while you make yours.