When the need for hunting dogs diminished in the United Arab Emirates, proud Saluki owners created an annual dog race two decades ago. It started with a few people wagering a little bit of money to see who had the fastest dog. Over time, the race grew, and today. Saluki racing takes place across the region and involves big prizes.

The race gives owners of purebred Salukis the chance to test the abilities of their dogs in a traditional, natural desert setting, although the race in 2016 was on the Sweihan camel race track, and the “prey” during training sessions was a stuffed gazelle. There are a couple of dedicated Saluki tracks around the country, and there is talk of an international stadium being built in Abu Dhabi, but for now, camel tracks suffice for the dogs who run over distances ranging from 1.5 kilometres to 2km.

We found on article in which a racer being interviewed mentioned that he has 300 dogs, though only 30 are eligible to compete. He added that the rest are too young, used for breeding, or are entered in dog shows. Dogs that are retired are well looked after.

See more images here.

Thumbnail image of “The Falconer,” by Donald Grant, collection AKC Museum of the Dog, gift of the estate of Cynthia S. Wood via the AKC with permission.