Tuesday 03 / November / 2026
Muscat: Oman Camel Racing Federation signed on Tuesday an agreement with Oxy Oman to support camel races taking place in concession areas across Al Dakhiliyah, Al Dhahirah, and Al Wusta Governorates for the 2026/2027 season.
The agreement was signed on behalf of Oman Camel Racing Federation by Sheikh Said Saud Al Ghafeeli, Chairman of the Federation, and on behalf of Oxy Oman by Thamer Dawood, Deputy Executive President of Social Responsibility, Communications, and Public Affairs.
Basil Ahmed Al Rowas, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for Sports and Youth, affirmed in a statement the importance of strengthening the partnership between the public and private sectors in supporting various sports activities, including camel racing, which is considered one of the significant heritage sports linked to the social, economic, and cultural aspects of Omani society.
He pointed out that private sector institutions' support for this sport contributes to maintaining its continuity, developing it, and enhancing associated economic activities, alongside encouraging camel owners and trainers to participate in various races and competitions.
Sheikh Said Saud Al Ghafeeli, Chairman of Oman Camel Racing Federation, said that signing the cooperation agreement with Oxy Oman comes within the Federation's keenness to strengthen partnerships with private sector entities and expand areas of cooperation to support and develop camel races across various governorates of the Sultanate of Oman, thereby contributing to preserving this authentic cultural heritage and ensuring its continuity for future generations.
He explained that the existing partnership between the Federation and private sector institutions extends over many years, embodying the role undertaken by these entities in corporate social responsibility through supporting camel racing as a heritage sport that enjoys wide interest among Omani society members, in addition to its economic and social importance as a source of livelihood for a segment of camel owners, trainers, and workers in related activities.
He added that the agreement includes supporting the organisation of several camel races during the current 2026/2027 season in the company's concession areas in Al Dakhiliyah, Al Dhahirah, and Al Wusta Governorates, contributing to expanding the scope of these races, providing more participation opportunities for camel owners and trainers from various governorates of the Sultanate of Oman, and enhancing the spirit of competition among them.
He stressed that the continuation of these partnerships represents a major incentive for camel owners and trainers to care for breeding and preparing camels for competitions, encouraging youth to practice this sport and preserve its authentic legacy, noting that support provided by private sector institutions enhances the Federation's efforts to develop races and expand the base of participants, alongside stimulating economic activity related to camel breeding and trading in local markets.
The Chairman of Oman Camel Racing Federation praised the continuous support provided by private sector companies and institutions, expressing appreciation for their contributions to the success of the Federation's programmes and events, and the direct benefits these partnerships achieve for camel owners and trainers, as well as their role in reinforcing corporate social responsibility for institutions supporting heritage sports.
He confirmed the Federation's ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation with various supporting entities to serve the aspirations of camel owners and trainers, contributing to developing this ancient sport and preserving its status as an authentic component of Omani cultural and heritage identity.
Nasser Issa Al Maskari, Social Responsibility Director at Oxy Oman, said that the agreement signed marks the 13th between the company and Oman Camel Racing Federation, coming as an extension of the existing partnership between the two sides in supporting camel races, particularly in the company's concession areas, and enhancing cooperation with local communities.
He explained that the company's continued support for this sport reflects its commitment to preserving authentic Omani heritage, aligning with the Royal interest in camel racing due to the heritage, economic, and social value it represents, emphasising the company's keenness to build effective partnerships with the local community and harness available capabilities to support initiatives and activities that meet its aspirations and contribute to achieving sustainable community development.
