Lions are majestic creatures that have long captivated human imagination. They are symbols of power and strength, and are often depicted as kings of the animal kingdom. But did you know that some people in Dubai actually keep lions as pets?
Yes, you read that right. Lions as pets in Dubai is not a myth or an urban legend. In fact, it is a reality for some wealthy individuals who can afford to own these exotic animals.
But before we dive into who these people are and why they choose to keep lions as pets, let’s first address the legality of owning a lion in Dubai.
According to the UAE’s Federal Law No. 22 of 2016 on Animal Welfare, it is illegal to own wild animals such as lions without a permit from the authorities. The law aims to ensure the welfare and protection of animals from abuse and mistreatment.
However, despite this law, there have been reports of people keeping lions as pets in Dubai. These individuals usually obtain their lions through illegal means, such as smuggling them into the country or purchasing them from black market dealers.
Now that we’ve established the legalities surrounding lion ownership in Dubai, let’s move on to the more interesting question – who has lion as a pet in Dubai?
One prominent individual who has been known to keep lions as pets is Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, also known as Fazza. He is a member of the ruling family of Dubai and is well-known for his love for animals.
Fazza has been photographed with his pet lion on several occasions, and has even shared videos of himself playing with the animal on social media. However, it should be noted that Fazza obtained his lion legally through a special permit from the authorities.
Aside from Fazza, there have been reports of other individuals in Dubai keeping lions as pets. These people usually keep their lions hidden from public view, and it is unclear how they obtained their animals.
But why do people choose to keep lions as pets in Dubai? The answer is simple – status symbol. Owning a lion is seen as a symbol of wealth and power, and some individuals are willing to go to great lengths to obtain these exotic animals.
However, it is important to note that keeping lions as pets is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. Lions are wild animals and are not meant to be kept in captivity. They require specialized care and habitat that most people cannot provide.
In conclusion, while it may be fascinating to know that some people in Dubai keep lions as pets, it is important to remember that this practice is illegal and highly discouraged. Lions belong in the wild and should be respected as such.