It’s official, 2024 has been named the year of camels in Saudi, celebrating everything related to these desert animals.
Camels are firmly embedded in Saudi culture and are known as one of the iconic symbols of the Kingdom. Next year will work on bringing attention to these animals’ rich history, aligning with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to promote the camel industry.
Excited? Here’s everything you need to know about the 2024 theme.
Why the year of camels?
Camels are a big part of the historical and cultural heritage of the Kingdom, embedded in the Saudi identity, and were used for trading in ancient times. Known for their ability to withstand the extreme weathers and distances of the desert, they were an integral part of regional trade.
Saudi takes pride in their relationship with camels, significantly growing the industry in recent years both culturally and economically.
The goal in 2024 is to further emphasise the cultural importance of camels and the traditions linked to them as well as the opportunities they open regarding food security, science and local and international relations and livelihood.
Year of camels events
The new year will bring us many camel events, similar to 2022’s year of Saudi coffee and 2023’s year of Arabic poetry, starting with the first edition of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival.
This camel festival, managed by the Saudi Camel Sports, will be held in February 2024 in Riyadh, where a number of camel owners from all over the world will participate for the chance to win over SAR70 million.
All things camel in Saudi
2023 saw many camel firsts, steadily giving rise to its popularity. AlUla had their first Camel Cup back in March, where people got to see camels racing each other across desert tracks. Riyadh also welcomed Noug in September, its first store specialising in camel dairy products.
We’re definitely seeing the theme growing in popularity next year.
2024.
In other news
Comedian Russell Peters is coming to Riyadh
The Canadian funnyman will hit the stage early next year.
The main Riyadh Bus network is now complete
All you need to know about stations and routes.
Riyadh Season’s Food Trucks Park zone
You can now book your tickets to the festival.
