Adventurist Ahmed Al Mahrouqi is marking the 54th anniversary of the Sultanate of Oman by a journey on camel starting from Farq, just a few km before Nizwa.
Speaking to the Observer from his campsite at Wadi Abiyad, Ahmed said, “I will start on November 17th morning from Farq to Wilayat Adam.”
Two camels are accompanying him on the journey: Rahal and Thuraya.
“I will have to start my journey at 7 am, and on my journey, I will go by the Oman Across Ages Museum in Wilayat Manah, go through Bashayeer, and then reach Adam, where I will conclude the journey at the Wali’s office in Adam,” explained Ahmed.
He said he wanted to celebrate the 54th National Day traditionally.
“Camel riding is part of our heritage, and this is how our forefathers traveled,” he pointed out.
Practicing the heritage also maintains the camel's importance.
Once upon a time, camels were known as the ships of the desert and were one of the main means of transportation on land. The camel caravans for trade were known in historic times, especially the caravans carrying frankincense.
Last year, in December, the Islamic World Heritage Committee of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ISESCO) added the Royal Camel Corps to the list of the Islamic World Heritage.
This international recognition confirms the role of the Royal Camel Corps of the Royal Court in preserving an intangible cultural heritage of Omani breeds, caring for camels, and showcasing this ancient cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, the Food and Agriculture Organization reported recently that “Camels: Heritage and Sustainability,” held this month in Suhar, celebrated the economic role of camels in Oman and highlighted the importance of preserving and sustaining camel breeds. The event included scientific lectures, competitions, races, and an exhibition of camel products and innovations in camel care. The event aimed to promote cooperation between breeders and investors and support government policies to achieve sustainable development.
UNESCO registered camel racing in its list of intangible cultural heritage, following an application submitted by the Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates.
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