Zayed National Museum to showcase 7,000 years of camel history in landmark exhibition

Abu Dhabi is set to unveil a groundbreaking exhibition titled Tracks Through Time: The Camel in Society, Trade and Art at the Zayed National Museum. This exhibition marks the first time that more than 7,000 years of camel history will be showcased publicly.

The ancient camel that inspired this exhibition died on the Abu Dhabi coast over 6,000 years ago. Its bones, discovered in the Baynunah area, will be displayed for the first time in December. The exhibition explores the camel's role in society, trade, and art over the centuries.

The exhibition is the first of its kind to explore over 7,000 years of camel history. The domesticated camel, which today is integral to UAE culture and economy, was first domesticated in the south-east of the Arabian Peninsula, between 1100 and 1800 BCE.

Genetic studies have shown that wild dromedaries from the UAE's south-east coast were among the founders of the domestic camel's gene pool. These animals, which fed among coastal mangroves, were among the first to be domesticated.

The camel has been a source of transport, milk, meat, hides, and salt. It's been used to pay zakat, and its milk is now sold internationally. Camel racing and beauty contests are also part of the camel's modern day economy. The exhibition will highlight these aspects, featuring archival photographs, film footage, oral testimonies, and recordings of camel-calling traditions.

Other objects on display include an 1840s children's book on camel species and their uses, rock art from Fujairah some 3,000 years old, and camels on UAE postage stamps. The exhibition aims to give the camel its due prominence, showcasing its journey from wild animal to symbol of prestige in UAE culture.