CAMEL MARKET

As you will not see a camel market anytime soon, we advise you not to miss this one... It's an original and memorable visit, so it's worth doing even if it's quite far from the cultural sites of Al Ain city. Therefore, it is a good idea to go there if you are thinking of crossing the border with Oman. Here you will see some of the country's 180,000 camels, of the Dhabian, Shtoota or Misk type, and their Sudanese, Pakistani and Omani masters. In the vicinity of the giant mall Bawadi, the site is not really photogenic, we warn you! In fact, they are modern boxes, of the type "housing estate for camelids". You will notice their letham muzzles intended to prevent them from eating everything that is lying around. The camels you see in this market are destined to end up as steaks (yes, camels are eaten in the emirates just like beef in our country) for some while others are bought at a high price to become racing camels. If you manage to make friends with one of the Bedouins, you will be able to take a picture (always ask permission) with one of their camels and even stroke one, but be careful not to get bitten! If you are lucky, you can even approach, as we did, a baby dromedary (very, very cute!). Look around and listen, as you may witness some colorful and vocal haggling near vans full of sheep or goats.

Dress code: wear closed shoes, as the ground is dusty and camel droppings are common... So an accident can happen quickly, and it is better not to walk in flip-flops on these camelid droppings! To refresh yourself at the end of the visit, remember to bring wipes or antibacterial soap. The camels are very smelly! We recommend that women come dressed in long pants and a shirt. Avoid at all costs the sexy outfits at the risk of being groped by some camel sellers (these Bedouins are not used to seeing non-veiled women) who could imagine that you are a girl with very liberal morals... If you are accompanied by a man, they will not dare to bother you, but if you are alone, or with friends, be firm and everything will be fine.

They may try to sell you a trick, but you can walk alone.

We recommend that you go preferably in the morning on weekdays and on Saturdays and rather in the afternoon on Fridays after the big prayer.