00:00They had come from all over the GCC to take part in the Mazaina Al Dhafra, the world's
00:27only camel beauty contest.
00:31This is the 7th edition of the Al Dhafra festival which began on December 14.
00:35The objective is to provide a glimpse of the Bedouin way of life and to safeguard UAE's
00:41proud heritage.
00:44The entire area wears a festive look with UAE flags lined up on both sides of the path
00:49that leads to the main contest area.
00:52This is also a time to make brisk business for these traders who bring trucks loaded
00:56with fodder for the camels and piles of wood to ward off bitter cold.
01:01Participating camels go through various competitive laps.
01:05They are paraded in front of a judging panel during which the most beautiful camels are
01:09picked according to the length and the height of their neck, the size of their head, the
01:14shape of their nose, the straightness of their legs, the shape and location of the hump and
01:18the width of the upper part of the chest.
01:21The total prize kitty for Al Dhafra festival, now in its 7th edition, is Dirham's 46 million.
01:28Seated among the spectators are the camel owners who keep a close watch on the day's
01:33proceedings.
01:34The festival also gets visits from UAE schools.
01:37Pupils are given a brief insight in the event by festival volunteers.
01:48Once the judging is over, the enclosed area is thrown open for visitors for a photo opportunity
01:53before they could move on to the traditional market which is held under the slogan 100%
01:58Emirati 100% Handmade.
02:01The objective is to preserve and promote traditional Emirati handcrafts.
02:05The festival at Al Dhafra serves as a link between old and the new generation.
02:10It serves as a podium to revive and strengthen the national feeling in the hearts of the
02:14younger generations.
02:15The 7th edition of the festival comes to a close on December 28, 2013.
02:21Sunita Menon, Gulf News.
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