Sand, Speed, & Tradition of Tabuk
Ibrahim Sarhan
Tabuk, a province in Saudi Arabia's far northwest, is a land of striking contrasts where diverse landscapes and historical influences intertwine to create a rich cultural mosaic. This province, bordering Jordan and stretching to the Red Sea's azure shores, encompasses a tapestry of terrains—from stunning desserts and lush oases to otherworldly volcanic fields and imposing mountain ranges.
While camels hold significance across Saudi Arabia, the people of Tabuk share an unparalleled bond with these majestic creatures, particularly in the realm of racing—a time-honored tradition that distinguishes them from other regions. This deep-rooted practice traces its origins to military strategies employed for the first time around the 11 century B.C., when the Midianites, believed to be the pioneers of camel-mounted warfare, lived on the lands now encompassed by Tabuk Province.
Camel races in Tabuk are more than mere sporting events; they are vibrant social gatherings organized by the locals themselves, these races often coincide with joyous occasions such as weddings or important celebrations, serving as a focal point for communal bonding and festivity.
The vast, untamed wilderness of Tabuk serves as a natural arena for their celebrations and exhilarating camel races. This unique racing tradition not only preserves an important aspect of Tabuk's cultural identity but also demonstrates the resilience and ingenuity of its people in transforming the challenges of their environment into a source of pride, unity, and celebration.
An Attack$1,300
“Harrat ArRahah” one of the volcanic fields in northern Saudi Arabia$1,500
A Prehistoric Rock Art from Tabuk$1,700
An Outdoor Excursion with Camels$1,000
Studying Inside the Tent $1,000
Daily Training of Camels $1,500
Portrait of Amer, A Camel Rider From Tabuk$1,300
The Starting Spark$1,000
A Cold Winter Morning in the Desert$1,300
Face to Face$1,300
Before the Finish Line $1,300
The Preparation for the Camel Race $500
The Decisive Moment $1,100
The Aftermath$1,100
The Dust of the Race$1,000
The Serial Number and The State of Euphoria $1,000
The Veterans$1,300
Necks Dyed With Saffron$1,500
Receiving the Award $1,100
Encouraging The Children$1,100
Wedding Procession in Tabuk$1,300
A Group Family Photo With Camels$1,300
The Charm of the Tents$3,000
Competing for the 1st $1,100
Throwing the Turban$1,700