Camels served as a significant mode of transportation before the development of transportation technology during the industrial revolution. Their utility in various aspects of daily life led to their mention in many fields, from literature to place names. The ability of camels to carry heavy loads made them a preferred choice for transportation. They were not loaded with more than they could carry; overloading caused these animals to suffer and even perish. This study aims to explain how camels were utilized as a means of transportation in the Ottoman Empire based on archival documents. Additionally, the other functions of camels in the Ottoman context are discussed. The Ottoman Empire sought to meet its camel needs through a system called “mirî deve.” In this system, camel breeders and caretakers were exempted from certain taxes due to the importance of their work. When the state could not meet its camel needs through the mirî deve system, it sought to rent camels from nomads. At times, the state kept camel rental prices low, which discouraged camel owners from renting them out. The Ottoman Empire allocated free camels to poor pilgrims going on Hajj, ensuring that these camels led the Hajj caravan, thereby honoring the less fortunate pilgrims. Additionally, the state sourced camel oil from certain centers and addressed delays in procurement by warning the relevant authorities.

Camel, Camel cart, Transportation, Shipping, Transport.