Autonomous Camel Racing Robots
Estimated Value: $500/Robot Jockey*
Produced by: Various Local Shops
Before 2004, camel racing in the UAE was fraught with human rights issues, notably the use of small children as jockeys. The Emirates responded by banning all human jockeys in 2004 and replacing them with robots. These robots, with their aluminum frames, are capable of transmitting the camel’s heart rate and running speed to the race team from a safe distance. Operators of the robots drive alongside the track in separate vehicles, managing the remote controls.
The introduction of robot jockeys has prevented numerous injuries and a multitude of human rights violations within the UAE’s camel-racing scene. Additionally, they have a cool factor. The design of these robotic camels has seen significant modifications over the years. Though the development started in 2001, it wasn’t until four years later that the first race with robot jockeys took place. The robots were adapted to endure the harsh desert conditions and extreme heat.
