Philip Jones, Head of Tourism at the Royal Commission of Al-Ula Province, confirmed that the Al-Ula Camel Cup, held in partnership with the Saudi Arabian Camel Federation, will connect the past with the present in a unique experience that highlights the cultural and sporting significance of camels in Arab world. From 14 to 17 March 2023 to host this exceptional event at the “Al-Ula Camel Field” where record-breaking financial prizes representing the highest financial prizes will be awarded. in the world in a single launch, with a total value of more than 80 million Saudi Riyals, and will include many activities and events coinciding with its launch as part of one of the AlUla Moments events.
The cup will include 6 marathon races with prizes of SR960,000 per race, as well as a series of “legacy races” consisting of 8 races with a total prize value of SR51.2 million, in addition to two rounds of “elite Races” with prizes of 12 million Saudi Riyals for each race.
More than 40 horses will compete for the cup, whose ability, speed and endurance will be tested on the soil of the province of Al-Ula and its natural and cultural heritage, in which camels have played an important role, as can be seen from the scattered paintings and rock inscriptions. throughout its various parts, which illustrates the peculiar relationship between man and camel, which is still very important among the peoples of the Arabian Peninsula at the present time.
Philip Jones said: “Your presence in Al-Ula will allow you to see the close connection between camels and the region. Because of this and its importance, hosting the first edition of the Cup is a milestone for Al-Ula as a destination and we look forward to hosting it and succeeding.” in presenting it in the best possible way.
For his part, engineer Mahmoud Sulaiman Al-Balawi, Executive Director of the Saudi Camel Federation, said: “Since the seventh century, camel racing has attracted people from all over the Arabian Peninsula as it has established itself as a sport and national hobby. The idea behind this unique event in the beautiful province is Al-Ula, with its mixture of past and present, with an emphasis on camels and camel racing, has been received with great acclaim, and with the establishment of various sporting events by the Kingdom and the hospitality of all from around the world, it is important to preserve our identity and traditions that we are proud of, and pass them on from generation to generation in light of the ongoing development path our dear homeland is going through through the vision, support and leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince.
It is worth noting that the Al-Ula Camel Sports Draw is held with the aim of attracting attention and developing camel sports as an ancient sport and the title of heritage and culture of the Kingdom, and to enhance the authenticity of Al-Ula and its history, full of amazing archaeological, cultural and natural sites. . And serve as the culmination of a busy season of numerous camel races in the Kingdom and the region, as well as confirmation of the nobility, authenticity and rich history of this sport. This high-profile event will also include a range of high-end arts and music events featuring Arab and international stars, in addition to a historic village that will offer its visitors a unique experience through retail stores, artisan antiques and delicious food. inspired by Al-Ula. The event will be a rare opportunity for fashion design lovers to present themselves in full elegance and with distinctive clothing designs that mimic the event, the beauty of Al-Ula and its picturesque nature.
The Al-Ula Camel Cup is one of the sporting events within the framework of Al-Ula Moments, which includes a number of different activities, including sports, the most prominent of which is the Custodian of the Two Holy Moments. Mosque Endurance and Endurance Cup, Al-Ula Trail Race and Saudi Arabia Tour.