Doha: The fifth Qatar Camel Festival "Jazilat Al-Atta" 2026 will begin tomorrow in the Al Mazayen area in Lbuseir and will continue until February 10, 2026. The event has garnered significant participation from across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, establishing itself as a prominent fixture in the history of local and Gulf camel competitions.
According to Qatar News Agency, participating camels will vie for 119 titles over 31 days across three categories: 37 rounds for Al Magateer, 44 rounds for Asayel, and 38 rounds for Mujahim. Sunday's contests will commence with three rounds of Al Magateer for the production of Al Azbah in the Shual Safr, Shaqeh Hamar, and Wadh classes. Participants in these rounds will receive three symbolic trophies, three vehicles, and 12 cash prizes, including a Tank 500 for first place.
The Al Magateer contests are scheduled to last for 10 days, concluding on January 21. This will be followed by the Asayel category running for 13 days until February 1, and then the Mujahim category for 11 days until February 10. The festival promises substantial cash and in-kind prizes, including 56 vehicles, 149 symbolic awards, and additional monetary prizes.
In total, 1,090 winners will be recognized, with awards presented to the top ten in all rounds except the Khanjar, Shalfa, Bunduq, and Saif rounds, where only the top five will be awarded. The organizing committee has worked diligently to ensure the event is implemented seamlessly, with particular emphasis on the Registration and Licensing Committee's efforts to streamline procedures through the Mzayen app and provide direct support to participating camel owners.
The festival is organized in collaboration with various public and private agencies, including the Ministry of Sports and Youth, Social and Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM), and the Ministry of Interior represented by Dukhan Security. The Ministry of Municipality is a strategic partner, while the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change serves as the environmental partner. Sponsors include Seashore Group of Companies, Al Taysir Automobiles, Alkalive Water (Lusail Mineral Water), and West Walk. AlKass Sports Channels will broadcast the festival.
A unique feature of this year's festival is the Prize to develop local judging talent and the "Jazilat Al-Atta" Poetry Award for the best poem, valued at QAR 30,000, which aims to honor literary creativity and preserve Qatar's camel heritage.
The festival is dedicated to preserving traditional sports and encouraging participation, aiming to create a lasting legacy by promoting this time-honored sport within Qatari society and the Gulf region. It seeks to enhance domestic and Gulf tourism and stimulate economic activity, positioning Qatar as a key destination for camel festivals and heritage events on the global stage.