Abu Dhabi awaits hunting and falconry fans

A proud owner parades his camels during the auction at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition last year. Delores Johnson / The National

ABU DHABI // Fans of falconry, hunting and other outdoor pursuits will descend on the capital next month for the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex).

The event, which runs from September 10 to 13 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, is among the largest of its kind in the region.

Abdullah Batti Al Qubaisi, director of the exhibition, said Adihex played an important role in keeping the traditional sport of hunting alive in the country.

“Adihex has become an annual festival and a forum for all hunting, equestrian, camping and heritage enthusiasts,” he said.

He said many companies and organisations from across the GCC were participating, which showed the importance of hunting in the region.

These include the Saudi Wildlife Authority, which will be showcasing its efforts to protect species in the country.

Another exhibitor that has confirmed its participation is the Fahad bin Sultan Falcon Centre from Saudi Arabia, which will be visiting the exhibition for the second time and will be showcasing the centre’s treatments and research in falcon medicine.

The Qatari company Al Hashimia Falconry has also confirmed its participation, where it will sell falcon hoods made from coloured leather made by some of the finest craftsmen in the industry,

The exhibition is held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, the Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region and chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club, which organises the event in partnership with Informa Exhibitions.