Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – In a significant cultural initiative aimed at promoting national heritage, the Misk Heritage Museum (Asan) is participating for the first time in the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival 2026, held at the historic Janadriyah Camel Racing Track. This fruitful collaboration with the Saudi Camel Racing Federation highlights the deep-rooted relationship between people and camels in the Arabian Peninsula, celebrating them as an authentic symbol of Saudi identity.
Historical Background: Camels, the Ship of the Desert and a Cultural Symbol
Throughout the Ages, have been more than just a means of transport in the Arabian Peninsula's deserts; they have been the lifeblood of societies. Dubbed the "Ship of the Desert" for their remarkable ability to withstand harsh conditions and traverse vast distances, they became essential to trade, travel, and communication between civilizations. Their role transcended the purely material, becoming an integral part of the cultural fabric. They held a prominent place in ancient Arabic poetry as symbols of patience, endurance, and beauty, and were intertwined with tales of generosity and chivalry that shaped the human spirit of this land.
An exhibition embodying heritage and reinforcing identity
: The Asan Museum, part of the Misk Foundation, presents an exceptional exhibition featuring selected artifacts and artworks from its Heritage Arts and Asan collections. The exhibition aims to highlight the cultural value of camel-related heritage and how it has shaped Saudi lifestyles for centuries. The exhibited items embody deep-rooted traditions based on profound knowledge of camel breeding and care, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship in the creation of related tools and accessories, offering visitors a rich and enriching journey through time.
In this context, Khaled Al-Saqer, CEO of the museum, stated: “Camels are deeply rooted cultural symbols in Saudi society, intertwined with the history of humankind on this land and contributing to shaping lifestyles, the economy, and transportation across generations. This status remains prominent today, embodied in sporting and heritage events that reflect the continuity and renewal of this legacy.” He added: “Through Asan’s participation in the festival, we aim to showcase the profound cultural connection with camels and highlight how this heritage extends from its historical roots to continue its presence and evolution within the contemporary cultural landscape.”.
A strategic partnership serving Vision 2030.
For his part, Engineer Mahmoud Al-Balawi, Executive Director of the Saudi Camel Racing Federation, affirmed that this collaboration represents a qualitative leap in highlighting the intangible aspects of this rich heritage. He said, “This participation represents a valuable addition with a profound cultural dimension to the festival. It serves as a bridge of knowledge that contributes to enriching the understanding of camel heritage and presenting it to the world in a deeper, more comprehensive, and more modern way.” Al-Balawi added that these cultural partnerships are a direct translation of the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 in preserving and instilling national heritage in future generations, and in strengthening the culture and tourism sectors.
The significance and expected impact
of this participation are immense on several levels. Locally, it reinforces pride in national identity and connects the younger generation with their ancestors' history. Regionally and internationally, through this partnership, the festival presents a shining example of the Kingdom's efforts to preserve its heritage and showcase it in innovative and contemporary ways, thus attracting tourists, researchers, and those interested in authentic Arab culture. Integrating art and heritage into the heart of a popular sporting event like the Camel Festival opens new horizons for fostering cultural dialogue and offering a comprehensive experience for visitors from around the world.
