II. Camels

The Camels have been domesticated thousands of years ago by frankincense traders, who trained the gangly cud-chewer to make the long journey from southern Arabia to the northern regions of the Middle East. They became important domestic animals with the Moslem conquests of Egypt in the 7th to 11th centuries A.D. It became the most important of all the animals to the medieval Muslims. They were called "the Gift of God" and "the Ships of the Desert" thanks to their ability to cope with arid conditions. Camel caravans carried goods and people across the Arabic world to trade, nomadism or pilgrimage.

A such beneficial animal became consequently highly valuable. The possession of camels was a sign of richness and power within the tribes and it could help to acquire respect. We understand easily when we know the status of camels, that they were called “gift of god”.

Racing camels
Camel racing is particularly important in Oman because Omani thoroughbreds are more in demand than other Arabian camels. With their medium size, their speed and their strength, they are appreciated sprinters. Camel racing are becoming more and more renowned all around the arabic world and consequently racing camels are more and more valuable.

Camel breeding is a traditional activity in Oman and to preserve this heritage, a Directorate-General of Camel Affairs was established in the Diwan of Royal Court in 1989.

Continue to "Horses".

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