Many other sports have grown in popularity over the years in Dubai. However, only one is so traditional a practice that it has become part of the culture, and that is racing of Camels. Tourists from around the world come to the city to witness this, every restaurant fills up, every luxury hotel, Dubai becomes the playground for international visitors. Camels have played an integral part in the development of Dubai. They are considered one of the lifelines in the desert. And now with the celebrations surrounding the races, they have become not only the work animals, but the beloved and cherished animals as well. Not only are the races in and of themselves events, but events, such as festivals and special occasions are enhanced by the races. The whole Middle East has become the center of camel racing. Sometimes they are serious competitions, and sometimes, they are just pure entertainment.
The progress of Dubai has exploded, economically, developmentally and socially. This occurred so quickly that some of the traditions were losing the importance for the culture. Now, the animals whose only purpose in the past was transportation, have become symbols of affluence and cultural pride. The professional aspects of the racing are strictly enforced, and services are now available, much as with the breeders of the Thoroughbred horses in Leicester, UK, there are camel breeders and trainers now running programs. There are many high end tracks in the city currently, with races involving up to seventy camels at one time. Most times, admission to the races is free, however photos are prohibited at the tracks. This has however become quite a media event with live races being broadcast on the radio and television stations, and the results each day printed in the newspapers . The champion camels are often purchased by the sheiks, and the other wealthy citizens of the country as to own the winning camels has become a status symbol. Anyone traveling here for the first time should definitely witness one of these events.
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