The longest, hottest day of the year in the UAE typically falls between June 20 and 22. We’ve survived these days thus far, but on the final day of this spread, spend some time celebrating, not only because you made it this far through the summer, but because June 22 is World Camel Day.

Why celebrate this animal?

Raziq Kakar, founder of World Camel Day, tells KUST Review, the camel is vital to desert ecosystems and those who live within them.

CAPTION:  Kakar gets camel nuzzles at a farm in Masakin IMAGE: Raziq Kakar

Since ancient times, the camel has wandered the Middle Eastern deserts. Widely known as the “ships of the desert,” camels serve as transporters of goods, a source of livelihood and a companion to the Bedouin people.

“There’s something deeply special about the bond between humans and animals — a language beyond words, built on respect and gentle care,” says Kakar, who holds a doctorate in animal science.

He says camels are among the only animals on the planet that might benefit from global warming.

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The camel is a pillar of resilience. It can sustain long, arduous travel through extreme temperatures.

Contrary to popular belief, the camel’s hump does not store water, but it contains fat that provides the camel with energy and fends off thirst for long periods of time.

How camels ingest and utilize water is another process entirely.

According to the World Wildlife Fund, these creatures can consume up to 40 gallons of water in one go and can go weeks without. But if it’s not stored in the hump, where is it?

It’s not stored at all. Camels can withstand severe dehydration, losing up to 30 percent of their body weight in water. So when they down 40 gallons in a single sitting, it’s to rehydrate.

This is only one of many biological traits they are revered for.

The camels also disperse seeds during treks and through their droppings, enhancing plant life and food security.

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CAPTION: Bedouin man proudly posing with a bowl of freshly milked camel milk during Al Dhafra camel festival IMAGE: Shutterstock

They’re also a vital biological inspiration to the scientific community, and don’t get us started on the umpteen perks of camel milk consumption.

On World Camel Day, you can join in the camel festivities by visiting the Camelicious Farm in Dubai, which will be open June 22 to the public. Check out Al Ain Farms’ social media channels for more information. You can also learn more about camels on the ADAFSA and find many informative articles on Kakar’s website, ARKBIODIV.

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