Dromedaries in the Netherlands: Ban Under Scrutiny
Since July 1, 2024, keeping dromedaries in the Netherlands has been prohibited. Only the 30 mammal species listed on the official domestic and hobby animal list may legally be kept. Other species, including the dromedary, are considered by the government to pose too great a risk to human and animal welfare.
There is one exception: Camel Dairy Farm Smits, the largest in Europe, has been granted an exemption and may continue to keep its animals.
Legal Battle
On December 19, 2025, the Trade and Industry Appeals Tribunal (CBb) will hear thirteen appeals against the domestic and hobby animal list. The ruling of the Dutch Supreme Court, expected shortly afterward, could have major consequences for dromedary owners across Europe. The Netherlands is known for its pioneering role in animal welfare regulation, raising fears that other countries may follow suit and impose similar bans.
Background of the Ban
The government’s advisory board uses the criterion of “advanced domestication” to determine which species are safe to keep. Highly domesticated species, such as the two-humped camel (Camelus bactrianus), are permitted. The dromedary, however, is considered insufficiently domesticated because there is no proven evidence of breed formation.
Critics point out that the domestication process of the dromedary is virtually identical to that of the two-humped camel, with breed formation occurring in both species.
Criticism of the Scientific Basis
Stakeholders and scientists have raised several objections:
- The concept of “advanced domestication” is not found in international scientific literature and lacks consensus.
- Many highly domesticated species pose equal or greater risks than less domesticated ones.
- Errors were made in assessing several species against the criteria.
What’s at Stake?
The judges must decide whether the domestic and hobby animal list should be suspended. If not, they will determine whether species wrongly excluded from the list – including the dromedary – should be added.
The ruling will not only affect Dutch animal keepers but could also set the tone for European regulation of exotic animals.