Doha, Qatar – The 17th edition of the Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival, Marmi 2026, concluded yesterday with a grand ceremony at Sabkhat Marmi in Sealine, crowning winners across a diverse range of falconry competitions. His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani presided over the event, recognizing the skill and dedication of falconers from Qatar and across the Gulf region. The festival, a significant cultural event, showcases the traditional sport of falconry and its enduring importance in Qatari heritage.
Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani awarded prizes, including Lexus vehicles and substantial cash awards, to the champions of the Haded Al-Tahaddi and other prestigious contests. The event highlighted both traditional hunting techniques and the aesthetic qualities of the birds themselves, drawing large crowds and considerable media attention. This year’s festival saw increased participation and a heightened level of competition, solidifying its position as a leading event in the world of Marmi falconry.
Celebrating a Rich Tradition: The Marmi Festival and Falconry
The Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival, commonly known as Marmi, is more than just a sporting event; it’s a celebration of a deeply ingrained cultural practice. Falconry in Qatar, as elsewhere in the Arabian Peninsula, has historically been linked to nomadic lifestyles and the pursuit of sustenance. Today, it represents a connection to the past and a commitment to preserving traditional skills. The festival’s continued success reflects the Qatari government’s dedication to safeguarding its cultural identity.
Haded Al-Tahaddi Championship Results
The highly anticipated Haded Al-Tahaddi final saw Mohammed Ahmed Al Harbi of the UAE and Nasser Saeed Al Marri of Qatar emerge as winners, each receiving a brand-new Lexus vehicle. Mohammed Jarrallah Al Nabet (Qatar) and Team Al Shamsi (UAE) were also recognized for their performance in the Haded Al-Tahaddi, taking home QAR 100,000 each. These competitions test the speed and precision of the falcons, as well as the expertise of their handlers.
Diverse Competitions and Winners
Beyond the Haded Al-Tahaddi, winners were crowned in the Tal’a Championship, where Ali Hassan Al Saei took first place, and across seven categories of the Local Da’w Championship. Prizes ranged from QAR 200,000 to QAR 50,000, acknowledging the varying levels of skill and competition. The International Da’w Championship also saw strong performances, with Suhail Saeed Al Kindi dominating several categories. Additionally, Team Al Zam secured victory in the Elite Da’w Round, receiving a prize of QAR 300,000.
The Saluki Racing Championship, a complementary event showcasing another traditional hunting companion, also concluded with winners in the Mixed Breed (Males), Mixed Breed (Females), and Arabian Saluki categories. These races highlight the speed and endurance of these elegant dogs, further enriching the festival’s celebration of hunting heritage.
Organizers praised the support of Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani and the Social and Sports Activities Support Fund (Daam), emphasizing their crucial role in the festival’s continued growth and success. Yousuf Mohammed Al Nuaimi, Director of the Shared Services Department at Daam, highlighted the fund’s commitment to supporting cultural activities aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, aiming to strengthen cultural heritage and introduce it to younger generations.
Meanwhile, competitors lauded the festival’s atmosphere and the organizing committee’s efforts to create a fair and competitive environment. Many noted the importance of Marmi in promoting falconry and fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts. The event also serves as a platform for showcasing the beauty and skill of these magnificent birds.
The festival will conclude today, Saturday, with the Mazayin Championship at Katara Cultural Village. This competition focuses on the aesthetic qualities of the falcons, judging factors such as feather completeness, color harmony, and overall physical condition. Participants anticipate strong competition, with many having invested significant time and resources in preparing their birds for this prestigious event. The Mazayin Championship is expected to draw a large audience eager to witness the beauty and artistry of these exceptional animals. The future of Marmi and its role in preserving this cultural tradition will depend on continued support and the dedication of falconers and organizers alike.
Looking ahead, the success of this year’s festival suggests a continued bright future for falconry in Qatar. Further expansion of the Mazayin Championship, as suggested by participants, could be a key area for development. The ongoing commitment to preserving this intangible cultural heritage remains a priority, and future editions of Marmi are expected to build on the achievements of 2026.
