Up to 1,000 child camel jockeys have been returned to their countries from the United Arab Emirates over the last six months, official reports say.

The action follows the UAE Government's agreement with UNICEF to help the return and reintegration of child camel jockeys in their countries, signed in May. Some observers, however, suggest this figure is inflated.

In 2005, the Government admitted as many as 3,000 children were being exploited as camel jockeys in the UAE, most of whom were under 10.

While news of any returns is positive, it is clear that at least 2,000 children have yet to be removed from camel farms. According to eyewitness accounts, boys continue to be used as jockeys in the UAE and it is feared some are being trafficked to neighbouring countries.

Anti-Slavery International's partners have also found that care for the children before they leave the UAE is lacking. Returned boys said they did not receive medical check-ups, treatment or counselling before being repatriated.

After years of pressure from Anti-Slavery International and other organisations, the UAE passed a law in July prohibiting the use of under-18s as camel jockeys. Under it, offenders face up to three years in prison and/or a fine of at least 50,000 dirhams (US$13,614). This was a significant step, but it will only have meaning if all child camel jockeys are returned home and offenders are prosecuted.