Restrictions on camel grazing will remain in place until May 14, 2027, to safeguard native plants and natural grazing areas.
Abu Dhabi’s seasonal camel grazing ban comes into effect on October 16 and will continue until May 14, 2027, as part of efforts to preserve the emirate’s native vegetation, natural grazing areas and fragile desert ecosystems.
The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) confirmed the conclusion of the 2026 camel grazing season and called on camel owners and livestock breeders to observe the restrictions throughout the closure period.
The 2026 grazing season started earlier than the traditional schedule, opening on April 22 instead of May 15, following an evaluation of environmental conditions by EAD and the relevant authorities.
The adjusted dates were approved under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of EAD’s Board of Directors.
The earlier opening followed significant rainfall across Abu Dhabi in previous months, which helped stimulate plant growth and improve conditions in natural grazing areas.
Why Abu Dhabi imposes seasonal camel grazing restrictions
The annual suspension of camel grazing is designed to give natural pastures sufficient time to recover and allow indigenous vegetation to grow without pressure from grazing animals.
Authorities say the restrictions are also important for conserving biodiversity, supporting ecological stability and protecting sensitive desert environments.
EAD expressed appreciation to camel owners and breeders for their cooperation during the 2026 grazing season.
The agency emphasised that sustainable grazing methods and adherence to environmental regulations are vital to maintaining healthy natural pastures and ensuring these resources remain available for future generations.
Camel grazing permits and regulations in Abu Dhabi
Camel grazing activities in the emirate are governed by Law No. 11 of 2020, which provides the legal framework for regulating the use of natural grazing lands.
Under the law’s executive regulations, grazing permits can be issued to UAE nationals aged 21 or older, provided they appoint a ranger who is at least 18 years old.
Permit holders are required to ensure their camels remain under the supervision of an assigned ranger at all times.
Grazing is allowed only within the dates specified in the permit, and licences cannot be transferred or assigned to another individual.
Eligible camel owners can submit applications for new permits or renew existing licences through the UAE’s TAMM government services platform.
The applicable fees are:
- New camel grazing licence: Dh250
- Grazing licence renewal: Dh150
Camel owners are advised to check that their licences remain valid and to ensure grazing activities take place only during officially approved periods when the next season opens.
