The 18th edition of the Tan-Tan Moussem took place in Tan-Tan, southern Morocco, from May 14–18, 2025, under the patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The festival brought together over 30 nomadic tribes from the Sahara and Northwest Africa to celebrate camel racing, traditional music, handicrafts and Sahrawi oral heritage. (ICESCO)
Camel racing remained the centerpiece of the event, with competitors showcasing their camels’ agility, speed, and endurance across a specially constructed racetrack. The races drew both regional spectators and international visitors, highlighting the continued cultural and sporting significance of camels in Morocco. (Day of Dubai)
The festival also featured two key seminars: one on Investment and Local Development, focusing on leveraging heritage for economic growth, and another on Women’s Hassani Poetry, highlighting Sahrawi women’s contributions to preserving oral tradition and collective memory. (ICESCO)
International participation was significant, with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority presenting Emirati culture, including camel racing traditions, handicrafts, and culinary exhibits. This collaboration emphasised cultural exchange and strengthened ties between Morocco and the UAE. (Al Etihad)
The Tan-Tan Moussem serves as a living heritage event, recognised by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity. It bridges generations, allowing nomadic communities to preserve oral histories, traditional skills, and camel racing culture, while offering tourists and participants a vivid insight into Saharan life. (Wikipedia)
Sources & Accreditation
- ICESCO – ICESCO Takes Part in 18th Edition of Tan-Tan Moussem in Morocco, Celebrating Nomadic Culture (19 May 2025)
- Day of Dubai – Thirty Tribes Ride Ceremonial Ground at Tan-Tan Moussem, Southwest Morocco (May 2025)
- Al Etihad – Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority to Participate in 18th Tan-Tan Cultural Festival in Morocco (May 2025)
- Wikipedia – Tan-Tan Moussem (link)
