In the expanse of wind-carved sand just outside of the air-conditioned metropolis of Dubai, is the first officially licensed school in the United Arab Emirates dedicated to teaching camel riding.
The school now has 30 regular riders -- most of them women."Initially, we didn't target women in particular," she says."With me being a woman and being a part of the school, people saw it as unique, and it drew a lot of attention.". Dromedaries, a single-humped species also known as the Arabian camel, were historically used for transport and as a source of milk, meat, wool, and hide.
"That was a big conflict for me," she continues."I wanted to be reassured that we can dress modestly and be culturally appropriate, but we can be women."She eventually found a willing teacher and mentor in Obaid Al Falasi, 52, an Emirati man who has worked with camels throughout his life. With his guidance, Krockenberger mastered camel riding and together they decided to open the school, making it accessible for anyone who wanted to learn.
"The fact that we are officially recognized is really important," says Krockenberger."What we do has wider implications for women in the region because we do it in an institutional capacity. There is validation that then slowly makes its way down to communities." and are ridden in the traditional way without the use of metal stirrups. And unlike in most camel races, her team does not use whips. But for those who just want riding lessons, the pace is much more sedate.
Is a good thing