President Sheikh Mohamed visited the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition at the National Exhibition Centre in the capital on Wednesday.
He spoke with exhibitors and was briefed on the participation of several international companies in the field of hunting and equestrian industries, state news agency Wam reported.
Sheikh Mohamed highlighted how important the festival is in showcasing the country’s cultural heritage, particularly to younger generations.
He was accompanied by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed, Chairman of the Office of Development and Martyrs Families Affairs, chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council.
The nine-day event started on Saturday and offers an array of exhibits showcasing falconry, hunting, equestrian sports, fishing, environmental preservation and culture.
The staging of Adihex has traditionally meant that summer is on the wane and the camping season is near. The 21st edition will feature thousands of brands across 11 sectors.
A falcon beauty contest, an Arabian Saluki beauty contest and the most beautiful falcon hood and perch will feature. Auctions of camels and top falcon breeds are also among the highlights.
Last year, a prized falcon fetched Dh600,000 ($163,380) at an auction held on the final day of the festival. In 2022, one bidder spent Dh1.01 million for a Pure Gyr American ultra-white falcon.
Adihex runs from August 31 to September 8 under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club.
Adihex 2024 – in pictures
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A falcon auction is held at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition 2024 at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi. All photos: Chris Whiteoak / The National -
The nine-day event started on Saturday and offers an array of events showcasing falconry, hunting, equestrian sports, fishing, environmental preservation and culture. -
Thousands are expected to attend the event to see camel and falcon auctions, as well as explore desert life. -
A falcon auction is held at the event. -
The expo runs from August 31 to September 8, drawing crowds from across the Gulf states and beyond. -
Taking notes at Adihex on Day 1 of the expo -
Hamdan, who is 5, looks at a zmeel, a leather container used for storing milk -
Khanyar, a traditional Emirati dagger, on display at Adihex -
The Emirates Falconers Club demonstrates hospitality with coffee and lessons in falconry, a great Emirati tradition -
Falcons on display and likely to become the centre of attention as the Adihex crowds increase -
Colourful falcon hoods on display at Adihex -
A visitor brings Saluki hunting dogs at Adihex -
A line of handguns on display at Adihex -
Ayala, a symbol of union and Emirati nationhood, is performed for visitors on Day 1 at Adihex
