Scandal at festival in Oman: 20 camels disqualified due to cosmetic procedures
This was reported by Comments.
Camel beauty contests in the Persian Gulf countries are part of the Bedouin cultural heritage. During the competition, judges evaluate the animals according to four criteria: shiny coat, long neck, expressive head with full lips, and correct hump shape. All these characteristics must be natural.
According to reports, some breeders have tried to artificially improve the appearance of their animals to increase their chances of winning. Prizes can reach tens of millions of dollars.
Veterinary teams have recorded Botox injections to relax the muscles of the muzzle, fillers to enlarge the lips, silicone to correct the shape of the nose and hump, as well as hormonal drugs to stimulate muscle growth.
According to the rules of the competition, even one such manipulation is grounds for immediate disqualification. As a result, 20 camels were removed from the competition.
The organisers emphasise that enhanced veterinary control is necessary to maintain the integrity of the competition and breeding standards.
Similar cases have occurred before. In 2021, more than 40 camels were disqualified from a similar competition due to Botox and other interventions.
