Camels

The camel is a remarkable creature with the unique ability to endure harsh environmental conditions. It can withstand dehydration for several days, endure hunger for about a month, carry heavy loads, and travel long distances. Moreover, due to global warming and the limited rainfall in many regions, camels are now considered an alternative to other farm animals for meat and milk production.
The wise leadership in the U.A.E. has consistently shown great reverence for authentic Bedouin history over the years, underscoring the significance of upholding Emirati traditions and customs. Annually, a camel race takes place in the U.A.E., serving as a platform to showcase cultural heritage and remind the younger generation of a glorious era and the sportsmanship of their ancestors.
From this vantage point, the leadership strongly advocates preserving the authentic Arabian camels through breeding and proper care. Notably, the Fujairah Research Center emphasizes applied camel research, encompassing various aspects such as optimal breeding, maintenance, nutrition, and training. The goal is to enhance the genetics and performance of racing camels within the U.A.E. and across the entire Arabian Gulf region.

Reproductive efficacy in dromedary camels under natural conditions is low compared to other domestic animals due to delayed puberty, a short breeding season, a long gestation period of 13 months, and prolonged post-partum reproductive inactivity. Generally, a fertile female camel can produce only one camel calf every two years. Applying assisted reproductive technologies (A.R.T.s), such as artificial insemination, semen preservation and cryopreservation, in-vitro fertilization, and embryo transfer, can potentially increase reproductive efficacy and improve genetic merits in different domestic animals.
The application of A.R.T.s in dromedary camels is considered to have low overall efficiency and lacks the widespread application seen in other domestic animals. Therefore, we are at the Fujairah Research Center conducting intensive research on semen collection, preservation, and cryopreservation. Additionally, we are researching embryo transfer, in-vitro fertilization, and cloning to preserve and improve camel genetics for cultural purposes, such as racing and beauty or milk production.