Abu Dhabi hosted the 2012 Al Dhafra Festival at the end of 2012, a 15-day event featuring camel races as well as beauty competitions in addition to falconry tournaments. Millions of dollars' worth of prizes were awarded to the winners of the various contests.

Al Dhafra Festival

The 2012 Al Adhafra Festival -- one of Abu Dhabi’s most celebrated international events -- draws to a close this week after seeing a record turnout. Camel races are the highlight of the 15-day event in Madinat Zayed, 150 kilometers west of Abu Dhabi. Other events include a date-packaging competition and falconry competitions.

Desert beauties

More than 25,000 camels belonging to 1,500 owners competed in this year's Al Dhafra festival, compared with 20,000 camels and 1,300 owners who participated last year. Camel events include a camel beauty contest, an auction and numerous races.

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