In 2018, more than 40 camels were disqualified from Saudi Arabia’s prestigious King Abdulaziz Camel Festival after it was discovered they had received Botox injections.
The festival held annually outside Riyadh, showcases the most beautiful camels, with winners competing for prize money ranging from $26 million to $66 million.
Prize-winning camels are judged on features such as long lips, high and curved noses, broad cheeks, and humps that slope backward.
Some owners resorted to controversial practices like using hormones to boost muscle growth, inflating body parts with rubber bands, and injecting heads and lips to create a more prominent appearance.
Participants are strictly prohibited from using artificial enhancements such as Botox, facelifts, or fillers.
To preserve the integrity of the competition and protect the welfare of the animals, authorities began regulating camel competitions to prevent mistreatment.
Advanced techniques like X-rays and sonar were used to detect cosmetic enhancements.
The King Abdulaziz Camel Festival not only celebrates the beauty of camels but also aims to preserve the animal’s heritage and importance across Saudi, Arab, and Islamic cultures. Camels are integral to local life—providing food, transport, and clothing.