Payday for Dubai's gold-backed weight loss challenge

In July municipal officials promised to give out one gram of the yellow metal per kilogram lost, provided the participant lose at least 2 kilograms (about 4.4 pounds) – this figure tripled for those who shed upwards of 22 pounds.

There were no payout limits as the city proved once again that it really is a big spender. The biggest loser among hundreds, according to the Associated Press, lost more than 48 pounds, earning himself $3,200 worth of gold.

The challenge is part of the Kingdom's attempt at exposing the dangers and high prevalence of obesity – the The United Arab Emirates rank 7th in world-wide obesity rates.