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DOHA, QATAR
HORSES AND BIRDS
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It is interesting to note that even though gambling is not allowed Qatar is the breeding ground and training of the finest Arabian horses in the world. These horses are sent all over the world to race at betting tracks. They also race in Qatar for the sport. Their training facilities are the state of the art where the horses are treated royally and are housed in air conditioned stables. |
Another sport for the rich is Falconry. Falcons are used used kill other birds that migrate across the Arabian Peninsula. It is much easier to use falcons than guns to shoot down the birds. |
Falcons can be purchased in downtown Doha at falcon souqs (markets) or through private dealers.
On the average they cost between $5,000 and $25,000, however recently it is reported that one was bought for $250,000. The best ones may even be issued their own Qatari passports to ensure they are not stolen or taken out of the country without the owner's permission.
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This is a falcon all
packaged for sale
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Many Qataris spend fortunes on their falconry equipment, which can include radio monitors, 4x4 trucks, communication devices, and other high priced items. The reason for the high-tech equipment is so that the hunters can arrive right when the bird is taking down its prey, so they may separate the animals and kill the prey according to Islamic customs.
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