Abu Dhabi camel grazing ban in effect until May 2027

Abu Dhabi's annual camel grazing ban takes effect on October 16 and will remain in force until May 14, 2027. The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) announced the end of the 2026 camel grazing season, urging camel owners and livestock keepers to comply with the seasonal restrictions.

This year's grazing season began earlier than usual on April 22, following an assessment by EAD and relevant authorities. The customary start date is May 15. The revised schedule was introduced 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 decision followed substantial rainfall across Abu Dhabi, which encouraged vegetation growth and created more favourable conditions for camel grazing. The annual closure gives natural rangelands time to recover and allows native plants to regenerate without disturbance from grazing.

Camel grazing in Abu Dhabi is regulated under Law No. 11 of 2020. Under the law's executive regulations, grazing licences are available to UAE nationals aged 21 and above, provided they employ a ranger who is at least 18 years old. Licence holders must ensure their camels remain under the supervision of a designated ranger at all times. Grazing is permitted only during the period authorised by the licence, and permits cannot be transferred to another person.

Eligible camel owners can apply for a new grazing licence or renew an existing one through the TAMM government services platform. A new grazing licence costs Dh250, while renewal costs Dh150.