Al Marmoom Heritage Village in Dubai is a great place for anyone who loves culture and history. This yearly event, which happens in spring, celebrates the rich traditions of the UAE. Visitors can enjoy the famous Dubai camel race and many other cultural activities.
It is a great chance to learn about local customs and experience the beauty of the UAE desert. Let’s explore more about this spot in our guide below.
Al Marmoom Heritage Village – Overview
Al Marmoom Heritage Village is located near Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve in Dubai. This yearly spring event, which runs from March to April, celebrates the rich Emirati and Khaleeji heritage. Visitors can explore traditional crafts, taste local food and enjoy live music.
A highlight is the famous camel racing in Dubai, a tradition with deep historical roots. The village offers a chance to experience authentic Emirati culture, from wedding displays to handcrafted goods. There are many souvenirs and delicious food to enjoy while listening to music.
The event is perfect for those who love history, culture, and the beauty of the desert.
Things to Do at Al Marmoom Heritage Village
Whether shopping, eating or watching thrilling camel races, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this festival. For instance:
1. Camel Racing
Camel racing is a key attraction at Al Marmoom Heritage Village. It is a tradition deeply rooted in Emirati culture. Visitors can watch around 60 camels racing at speeds of up to 40 km/h, guided by robotic jockeys, while their owners follow in SUVs, cheering them on.
The Al Marmoom Camel Race Festival is one of the most significant sporting events in the UAE, attracting large crowds every year. This centuries-old tradition has evolved with modern technology but remains deeply connected to the country’s heritage and identity.
2. Shopping
Al Marmoom Heritage Village features indigenous boutiques that promote the craftsmanship of Emirati artisans. Visitors can explore stalls filled with handwoven textiles, intricate pottery, perfumes and traditional jewellery, all crafted using age-old techniques.
These boutiques offer a glimpse into the UAE’s rich heritage, preserving skills passed down for generations. It is the perfect place to shop for authentic souvenirs, from handmade rugs to delicate silver accessories.
3. Dining Options
Al Marmoom Heritage Village offers a variety of traditional Emirati dining options, allowing visitors to enjoy authentic local flavours. Food stalls serve popular dishes like harees, machboos and luqaimat, prepared using time-honoured recipes.
Freshly brewed Arabic coffee and dates are also available, adding to the cultural experience. Whether you prefer grilled meats, fragrant rice dishes or sweet treats, the village offers an authentic taste of Emirati hospitality in a vibrant, open-air setting.
4. Stargazing
The village is an ideal spot for stargazing, offering clear desert skies away from city lights. The vast, open landscape provides a perfect view of the stars, with constellations and celestial bodies visible to the naked eye.
Some events at the village also include guided stargazing sessions. Here, experts share insights about astronomy and the region’s ancient navigation traditions. The peaceful desert vibe makes it a memorable experience, letting visitors connect with nature and the timeless beauty of the night sky.
5. The Bedouin Life Experience
Visitors can also experience Bedouin life at Al Marmoom Heritage Village. It offers a glimpse into the traditional desert lifestyle of the UAE’s nomadic tribes. You can explore authentic Bedouin tents, watch live weaving, falconry and coffee brewing demonstrations, and learn about age-old survival skills.
The experience includes camel rides, storytelling sessions and traditional music performances, reflecting the deep-rooted customs of the Bedouin people. With warm Emirati hospitality, this journey into the past allows guests to understand the resilience and traditions that shaped life in the Arabian desert.
Location and Contact
The Al Marmoom Heritage Village and Al Marmoom Festivals are the ventures of Dubai Camel Racing Club, which is located on E66 Tahnoun Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan Road (Dubai – Al Ain Road)
It is easily accessible from areas of Dubai and all other emirates. For instance:
- 45 minutes by car from Dubai International Airport
- 40 minutes by car from Downtown Dubai
- 50 minutes by car from Maktoum International Airport
Contact
+971 4 718 8888
Nearby Attractions
The following are the nearby attractions to Al Marmoom Heritage Village:
- Dubai Outlet Mall – 14 minutes away
- Dubai Heritage & Culture Village – 17 minutes away
- Hamdan Sports Complex – 18 mniutes away
- Last Exit Al Qudra – 22 minutes away
- Love Lake Al Qudra – 30 minutes away
FAQs
The village offers an immersive journey into the UAE’s heritage, featuring camel racing, traditional dining, cultural performances, indigenous boutiques and outdoor activities like stargazing.
The village is open during spring from March to April as part of an annual festival. The best time to visit is in the afternoon and evening when the weather is pleasant, cultural events are in full swing and the camel races take place.
Al Marmoom Heritage Village is a perfect place to experience the UAE’s rich traditions. Whether camel racing, Bedouin life or local crafts, every visit offers a deeper connection to Emirati heritage. It is a must-visit for anyone exploring Dubai beyond its modern skyline. Talking about skylines, explore these top hotels in Downtown Dubai that are worth a visit.
