Dubai’s cultural and artistic scene gained a new addition this week as H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched Ode to a Camel, a photography and poetry book exploring the symbolic and cultural significance of camels in Emirati and Arab identity.
The publication was unveiled during a ceremony at Dubai Mall on May 16 attended by Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi and Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, sons of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, alongside artists, intellectuals, media figures and heritage enthusiasts.
Published by Assouline, the book combines fine art photography with poetry and literary texts to present what organisers described as a visual and cultural narrative rooted in Emirati and Arab heritage.
Photography and poetry frame camel cultural symbolism
The work features photographs taken by H.H. Sheikha Latifa that document desert landscapes, camel life and the local environment, accompanied by poetic reflections on the historical relationship between Emiratis and camels.
The publication portrays camels not only as desert animals but also as enduring symbols of memory, resilience, loyalty and identity within Emirati culture. Through visual storytelling and literary commentary, the book examines their place in everyday life, history and collective heritage.
The project spans several years of documentation and focuses on camels’ personalities, behaviours and interactions with people and nature. It also explores Arabian camel breeds and their historical role as companions in travel, sources of sustenance and symbols of endurance in desert life.
According to the organisers, the book also examines expressions, traditions and practices associated with camels in Emirati society while offering personal reflections intended to reveal their emotional and aesthetic dimensions.
Publication links local heritage with global cultures
Beyond documenting Emirati heritage, Ode to a Camel compares the role of camels across cultures through photographs and experiences captured in different parts of the world.
Organisers said the publication seeks to create a cultural dialogue between humanity, nature and heritage while reinforcing the international presence of Emirati culture within the global arts scene.
The work was described by attendees as a contemporary interpretation of Arab heritage that combines artistic expression, cultural documentation and knowledge preservation. Several guests said the book represented a valuable addition to Emirati and Arab artistic literature through its fusion of photography and poetry.
The publication also aims to preserve aspects of the UAE’s intangible heritage through a modern artistic approach while opening broader conversations about the historical bond between people and camels over thousands of years.
Charitable proceeds add humanitarian dimension to project
Proceeds from sales of the publication will support charitable initiatives and projects, reflecting H.H. Sheikha Latifa’s support for humanitarian and community causes, according to organisers.
Antonio Saba, Fine Art Photographer and Creative Mentor, said he was honoured to accompany H.H. Sheikha Latifa during part of her photographic journey for the project.
Saba said his contribution was limited to offering guidance and technical direction, while describing the book’s visual and emotional language as the result of H.H. Sheikha Latifa’s artistic vision, sensibility and talent.
He added that witnessing the project develop had been an inspiring experience and thanked H.H. Sheikha Latifa for her appreciation during the collaboration.
Attendees at the launch praised the publication’s artistic and literary quality, highlighting its blend of imagery and text as a reflection of the richness and authenticity of Arab culture.
Organisers expect Ode to a Camel to attract international interest among readers of visual arts and Arabic literature as a work balancing heritage and contemporary artistic expression.
