At the heart of the UAE’s rich heritage lies falconry, a tradition as majestic and enduring as the desert itself. This age-old practice is a symbol of identity, resilience, and respect for nature. The International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX), taking place at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, offers a vital platform to showcase how this treasured tradition is being passionately preserved and invigorated in the modern age.

One of the striking highlights at ADIHEX 2025 is the noticeable surge in participation from falcon farms worldwide, a 4X increase compared to the previous edition. These include leading falcon farms from across the UAE, including KH Falcon, Alsarami Falcon, AD Falcon and many more.

Speaking about the significance of falconry and the operation of falcon farms, Hadi Al Mansouri, owner of KH Falcons, said: “Falconry is not just a tradition in the UAE, it is a symbol of our national identity and heritage, deeply woven into the fabric of our society. Falcon farms are at the heart of this legacy. They play a crucial role in preserving and elevating the art of falconry by supporting the local industry, advancing breeding standards, and fostering a culture of excellence.

Platforms like ADIHEX are instrumental for us. They allow falcon farms from across the UAE to showcase their most exceptional birds to a global audience, strengthening our international reputation and driving innovation within the industry. Participating in elite falcon auctions and exhibitions encourage continuous improvement and the exchange of expertise.

At KH Falcons, for example, we are dedicated to sourcing elite falcons from around the world, seeking out those with rare traits and distinguished bloodlines. Once they join our breeding programmes here in the UAE, we focus on producing new generations that embody the highest standards of health, skill, and beauty. Through these efforts, we aim not only to preserve the ancient heritage of falconry but also to ensure its vibrant future for generations to come.”

Importers also play a significant role at ADIHEX 2025. Al Shahin Gold, based in Al Ain, stands as a testament to over two decades of dedication to the art of falconry. Owner Abu Raasha explains that their business sources falcon eggs from Spain, the UK, and the US, where the eggs are hatched and the young birds are raised abroad. Once the falcons reach three to four months of age, they are brought to the UAE to acclimate to the local environment. This process underscores the challenges of breeding falcons domestically, given the UAE’s unique climate, and reflects the careful measures taken to ensure the wellbeing and quality of these magnificent birds.

Similarly, GYR Falcon, another Al Ain-based enterprise, has been involved in falconry since 2001. Owned by Rashed Ali Mohammed Daheri, GYR’s collection features both local falcon breeds and a majority imported from countries such as Germany, Austria, the UK, Holland, Poland, and Slovakia. This diversity represents the blend of tradition with global reach.

Birds at GYR Falcon find homes in various roles, hunting companions, racing champions, or even cherished pets. Their prices range widely, with male Saqr and Green Peregrine birds being more accessible at around AED 5,000, while Ultrawhite falcons from North America and the UK can command staggering prices upward of AED one million. Since the beginning of the exhibition, GYR Falcon has already sold 25 birds, including seven Emirati breeds, a sign of thriving interest among buyers.

Training, a crucial part of falcon care, adds to the investment, typically costing around A

ED 2,000. A falcon’s lifespan, averaging 25 to 27 years, makes this a long-term commitment for owners, blending respect for the bird’s nature with the responsibility of stewardship.

The remarkable growth in local and international participation at ADIHEX reflects a global resurgence in falconry’s appeal, but it is especially significant for the UAE, where falconry symbolises the unbroken link between past and present, where modern techniques blend with centuries-old knowledge.

Adding another dynamic layer to the falconry scene are the ongoing auctions, held every weekend, where birds exchange hands in a spirited display of tradition and commerce. These auctions draw enthusiasts, investors, and cultural devotees alike, all eager to participate in maintaining this storied heritage.

For those attending ADIHEX, the chance to witness this living tradition, meet passionate falconers, and learn about the intricate world of falcon breeding and training offers an insight into the UAE’s heart and soul.