Ask Ali: the significance of Qasr Al Hosn and can falcons fly on planes?

Dear Ali: Can you explain the significance of Qasr Al Hosn and the festival that is taking place in Abu Dhabi? Are non-Emiratis allowed to visit? SA, Al Ain

Dear SA: Qasr Al Hosn means “The Defence Palace”. The Qasr Al Hosn Festival represents the importance and powerful status that this building has carried over the years to the people of the Bani Yas tribe and rulers of the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Its significance comes originally from being the symbolic birthplace of our beloved capital. It hosted the royal family of Al Nahyan for many generations and was the first permanent structure built in the capital.

It was built around the 1760s and it’s made from coral and sea stone, since it’s very near the coast and on an island.

Sheikh Dhiyab bin Isa, the sheikh of the Bani Yas tribe during that period, was the person who built the fort. It had a very important purpose, which was to protect the resources of fresh water on the island and that was the reason for building the first tower, which was a watchtower.

More and more people started to relocate to live near the watchtower and, with time, the settlement was transformed into an impenetrable fort.

The festival is a great initiative to raise awareness about our history, heritage and rich traditions and culture that represents not just Abu Dhabi’s people and traditions but the whole UAE’s rich culture. Our beloved Sheikh Zayed, the founding President of the UAE, set such a great example by embracing both our tribal past and the modern lifestyle as part of our culture. During the time that he led our country, he was aware of our abilities as a nation and the challenges we would face.

The Government continues to support our nation in a positive way by enforcing many initiatives to make sure that we always keep in mind how important it is to stick to our traditions. The festival brings the past to life, not just for Emiratis but for everyone who lives in the UAE, so every expat is encouraged to visit, learn, enjoy and appreciate the festival.

Dear Ali: I’ve heard an urban legend that Gulf Arabs are allowed to bring their falcons on airplanes with them. Is this true? DJ, Muscat

Dear DJ: You must book ahead and there is a cost, but, yes, many Gulf-based airlines allow falcons on planes. The birds must have passports and certificates of health.

As I’m sure you’re aware, falcons hold a place in our hearts. Without them, our forefathers might very well have starved to death in the harsh desert landscape. Even though we no longer need the birds to help procure food, they’re an integral part of Gulf culture.

You will see them at festivals, exhibitions and sporting events. There are even special hospitals in the Gulf dedicated to preserving falcons. Because they are so prized – a top falcon sells for up to US$1 million (Dh3.67m) – we pay particular attention to breeding.

A wild falcon found in the Gulf region could be immigrating from Asia; others might be coming from Germany; others could originate in Arabia. We used to reach other countries by boat or by camel, but now we travel in style by air. And if we travel in style, so must our trusty companions.

This might alarm passengers who are not used to it, but I can assure you that it’s not dangerous, because the falcons are in their masters’ presence. Since falcons rely on their incredible eyesight for hunting, we put a little leather helmet over their heads to calm them.

The most comfortable thing for the bird is to allow it to sit on the armrest or a side table.

And if you ask to take a picture with it or pet it, that should be fine with the falcon owner.

Ali Al Saloom is a cultural adviser and public speaker from the UAE. Follow @AskAli on Twitter, and visit www.ask-ali.com to ask him a question and to find his guidebooks to the UAE, priced at Dh50.

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