I have never seen a camel. And, as I assume many North Americans can relate, it remains to me an animal of mystery, one that can withstand long periods in the desert without food or water. I try to remember my University biochemistry lessons to understand how the fatty tissue stored in their humps (not water as many assume) is converted to water and energy through reactions from the oxygen in air. So although, for me, the camel is a cruel reminder of my attempts at chemistry, in Saudi Arabia it has a special place in the Bedouin culture.
In the outskirts of Buraydah in Al-Qassim, across two square miles, lies the largest camel market in the world. Every day at six in the morning, the Buraydah camel market comes to life as vendors and buyers exchange riyals for camels, sheep, goats, and goods such as saddles, halters and blankets. The markets are described as pure chaos, with thousands of camels rattling in their rusty pens, men from all over hoisting their purchases into the back of their pick-ups, and the screams of animals mixed with sand, heat, and, presumably smell!
Historically, camels (specifically the Arabian camels or “one-hump” camels) were the main source of transport in Saudi Arabia. Now, being far more technologically advanced (I highly doubt a camel can offer the same speed as the latest porche or BMW), Saudis value the camel, both for its place in the country's cultural past, but also as a thoroughbred racing animal, as well as a reliable source of milk, food and leather.
Most of the camels purchased at the Buraydah market are destined for the slaughter-house, as camel meat is a prized delicacy. Others will be sent to the dairy and a lucky few to sheiks and businessmen who buy the finest specimens for breeding or racing. At special auctions a thoroughbred camel can be sold for as much as a million dollars.
A camel market is a true integration of past and present Saudi Arabia, and an excellent way to experience Arabian culture. Or maybe, like me, you are just interested in learning more about fatty tissue metabolism. No? I didn’t think so.
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