On behalf of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, HH Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs, presided over the closing ceremony of the prestigious Sultan’s Camel Cup Festival 2025. The event took place at the Royal Camel Corps Racecourse in Al Fuleij, Wilayat of Barka. This vibrant festival, organized by the Royal Court Affairs and the Royal Camel Corps, marks a significant cultural celebration in Oman.
The final day of the festival featured six thrilling rounds of camel racing. The highlight of the event was the victory of “Makhayil” from the Royal Camel Corps. “Makhayil” won the Sultan’s Camel Cup for the second consecutive year. The camel secured the first place during the fifth round, covering a challenging 8-kilometre stretch. This achievement added another chapter to the impressive record of the Royal Camel Corps in the competition.
In the highly competitive race, the second place went to “Rahiya” from the Royal Camel Corps. “Rahiya” was followed by “Al Reef” from Al Bashayer Camels, which took third place. The competition was fierce, but the performances of these top contenders left spectators in awe.
Between the races, the public was treated to a display of Omani heritage. Traditional folklore performances by Omani bands filled the air with music, while the Royal Camel Corps presented exciting camel shows. These shows included Ardha runs, camel polo, and camel cart racing, providing a fun and educational experience for attendees. The finale was capped off with a remarkable tableau of Al Azzi art, adding a cultural touch to the event.
At the closing ceremony, HH Sayyid Shihab handed out the trophies to the top winners of the festival’s rounds. The ceremony was attended by esteemed members of the Royal Family, ministers, and senior officials. All were present to celebrate the success of the festival and the winners’ accomplishments.
The Sultan’s Camel Cup Festival 2025 not only showcased the skills of the camels and their handlers. It also celebrated Oman’s rich cultural heritage. It was a day of sportsmanship, tradition, and unity. This reflected the nation’s pride in its history and customs. The event successfully concluded with a sense of joy and pride, further cementing the festival’s importance in Oman’s cultural calendar.
