Shaikh Hamdan attends saluki competition

Dubai - Salukis are the oldest known breed of domesticated dogs in the world. Saluki hunting is regarded as a lucrative and prestigious pastime among traditional cultures of the GCC.

Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, was among the spectators watching the ninth edition of the Saluki Championship in Dubai's Al Marmoum area.

The event, organised by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Centre, brings together saluki owners from across the GCC to display their dog's hunting skills.

Salukis are the oldest known breed of domesticated dogs in the world. Saluki hunting is regarded as a lucrative and prestigious pastime among traditional cultures of the GCC, and the competition has drawn representation from as far afield as Australia, Uruguay, Ireland and South Africa.

"I love that salukis run fast and that they're an old breed," said Finland's Laura Rodriguez, owner of four salukis.

"Salukis are not a terribly fashionable breed in Europe, but there are still quite a lot of them all the same. Most saluki owners say they are very active at dog shows and the like."

Another Scandinavian, Johan Forsman of Sweden, released a dog at the start line of the first run, and said he enjoyed the experience.

"I was here for the Saluki Championship last year and it's always great fun seeing the dogs racing and know the tradition all about here," said the veterinarian, who works with falcons here in the emirate.

"A lot of people come to Dubai and experience just the city side of things. I think it's really important to experience the traditional side and being out in the desert as well," he added.

Ahmed Saif Al Zafin, Head of the Committee for the Saluki Championship, said he has seen growing interest in salukis.

"We've noticed that the interest in salukis and the number of participants at this championship is growing year on year. We're looking for quality rather than quantity though, so we keep close tabs on the overall attendance figures," he said.

Shaikh Almur bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, for his part, said: "I believe it will witness more developments in the future. Hunting with salukis was one of the main sources of living in this region and in addition to horses and camels, the saluki is one of the historical symbols of this part of the world."

"With the aim of sustaining this heritage, it's important that such events are held, to maintain the popularity of this tradition."

reporters@khaleejtimes.com

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