Daily life continues to change in the United Arab Emirates. In addition, the techniques, rules and regulations of local camel racing are no exception. Evidence of change is obvious with the constant new records being set at racetracks across the country. With effective crossbreeding, better training programs and sophisticated equipment, healthier and faster camels are coming on the scene.
The sport also is attracting a cross-section of fans. Some say camel racing is rivaling football as a major spectator sport in the United Arab Emirates.
Camel racing not only captivates the national population, but enthralls many resident expatriates and foreign visitors alike. Hundreds of foreigners admit to watching televised races, and many are coming out to local tracks to watch the excitement first-hand. The increasing foreign patronage has inspired the local population, particularly those who own racing camels.
The newfound interest in camels also has inspired new race preparation dimensions based on science and modern methods. New techniques differ from the past, in which experience and luck often played An integral role. With the integration of scientific techniques, camel racing has be- come more exciting. Racing records are being broken constantly, not only at race- tracks in the United Arab Emirates, but at tracks across the Gulf.
