Daraw

Introducing Daraw

Daraw, 8km south of Kom Ombo, appears to be like any other village in this part of Egypt, except for its remarkable camel market (souq al-gimaal). Most of the camels are brought up in caravans from Sudan to just north of Abu Simbel, from where they’re trucked to Daraw. The rest walk to the market in smaller groups, entering Egypt at Wadi al-Alagi and making their way through the Eastern Desert.

Camels are sold here each day of the week, but the main caravan of camels from Abu Simbel, sometimes as many as 2000 of them, is brought to market on Sunday.

Also worth seeing is the Nubian house called Hosh al-Kenzi. Built in 1912 by the father of the current resident, Haj Mohammed Eid Mohammed Hassanein, it is constructed in traditional Nubian style and decorated with Nubian artefacts. To get there, ask for the Dar Rasoul Mosque on Sharia al-Kunuz. The house is clearly visible next door.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009