The ongoing 21st Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex) features a 1.95-metre falcon hood made from camel skin, handcrafted by Emiratis, aiming to preserve and showcase Emirati culture and heritage globally. Falconry, a traditional sport, uses the hood to shield the falcon’s vision, keeping the bird calm and focused. The UAE recently set a new Guinness World Record for creating the largest falcon hood, surpassing the previous record with a measurement of 1.95 meters.
Falconry has been a practice for centuries, representing Arabian values of courage, honor, and nobility, along with nature conservation and respect for animals. Falcons were vital for survival in the past, as they were trained to hunt and provide food for families. In 2010, UNESCO recognized falconry as the UAE’s intangible heritage, leading to various championships organized by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Centre.
Falconry is an integral part of Emirati identity and heritage, with Abdullah Mubarak Al Muhairi, acting director general of Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, stating that the achievement of setting a new record goes beyond just creating a remarkable feat. The UAE is dedicated to preserving falconry heritage and passing it down to future generations. The commitment to conserving Emirati heritage was highlighted by Humaid Al Dhaheri, managing director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, emphasizing the importance of showcasing Emirati traditions on a global platform.
Adihex, running until Sunday at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec), features several local and international exhibitors displaying products and services related to hunting, equestrian sports, and outdoor lifestyle. An auction during the event saw 15 purebred Arabian camels being sold for nearly Dh2.5 million, attracting bidders from the UAE and GCC countries. The camels were sought after for their exceptional lineage and racing potential, showcasing the cultural significance of these animals in the region. The event serves as a platform to celebrate and preserve the rich cultural heritage of the UAE, inspiring future generations to appreciate and continue the legacy of falconry.
