Abu Dhabi, 3 September 2025: The fifth day of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting & Equestrian Exhibition, held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, has drawn to a close after a packed schedule of heritage performances and vibrant cultural experiences. Now in its 22nd edition, this global event is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club. The exhibition is organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon, Holding company, in cooperation with the Emirates Falconers’ Club.
The fifth day featured a distinguished array of activities that showcased the diversity of Emirati heritage, alongside innovative displays looking to the future. The event engaged visitors of all ages, offering lively and adventurous outdoor experiences.
The new Knives Sector at the ADIHEX attracted leading exhibitors from the UAE, as well as prominent international participants from the United States, Germany, Japan, and Italy, presenting collections of hunting knives that blend classic, heritage-inspired designs with modern, contemporary innovations.
The exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the knives up close and learn about their intricate details, such as the type of metal used, handle balance, blade quality, and hand engravings that reflect the diversity of cultures and traditional crafts.
The sector also organises interactive workshops on the art of knife making and maintenance, in addition to direct meetings with leading global knife makers who share their expertise and craftsmanship. There are also opportunities for purchase and customisation, allowing visitors to acquire unique pieces tailored to their tastes and needs.
Knowledge Platform: Educational Workshops and Lectures
As part of the exhibition’s activities, the Knowledge Platform hosted an educational workshop titled “Learning About Falcons”, presented by Emirati trainer Afra Khalifa, a specialist in falconry and desert lore. The workshop highlighted the most prominent traditional sports in the UAE, such as falconry, camel racing, and horse racing, emphasising that falconry is not merely a sport but a deep-rooted cultural heritage associated with the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, regarded as the nation’s foremost falconer.
Khalifa explained that falcons in the Gulf are divided into three main types: Gyr, Peregrine, and Saker, while there are 37 species worldwide. The Peregrine is known for its exceptional speed, while the Saker is characterised by calmness and composure. She noted that falcons hunt independently, with the houbara bustard and desert hare among their main prey.
She pointed out that hunting is practised collectively and cannot be done individually, and that falconry was once a means of livelihood, with the saying: “A house with a falcon never lacks food.” Today, it is a hobby practised by Emiratis to preserve this authentic heritage.
The workshop also reviewed Sheikh Zayed’s efforts in establishing hospitals and breeding farms for birds, supporting the sustainability of this environmental and cultural legacy. The session saw significant attendance from school students and exhibition visitors, who engaged with the valuable information and demonstrations about the world of falcons.
Abu Dhabi Police Directorate also organised an awareness workshop titled “Safety Initiative for Off-Road Trips”, highlighting the importance of camping as an opportunity for relaxation and learning, and stressing that good preparation is key to a safe desert experience. The workshop covered steps for preparing for a desert trip, from choosing the destination and checking weather and road conditions, to setting a clear schedule and informing family or friends of the route. It also emphasised the need to obtain an official camping permit.
The workshop addressed the main challenges that may be encountered during desert trips, such as health and natural hazards, vehicle breakdowns, and unsafe human behaviours. It also discussed the proper preparation of vehicles and the importance of carrying essential camping equipment, especially a first aid kit, which serves as a temporary lifesaver for minor injuries and insect bites until reaching the nearest medical centre.
The General Civil Aviation Authority organised a workshop titled “Safe Skies: Drone Operations in the UAE”, presented by Moza Al Suwaidi, Administrative Officer in the Aviation Safety Sector. She outlined the regulatory framework for drone use, noting that it was available to all members of the community until 2022, after which it was restricted to government entities and companies under specific conditions. Al Suwaidi also discussed recreational drone use and its requirements, as well as registration and permitted operating times.
She provided a detailed map of areas where flying is allowed, with significant audience interaction and many questions about safe drone operation, making the workshop more of an interactive discussion than a traditional lecture.
Arena: The Live Events Zone
The Arena at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting & Equestrian Exhibition 2025 witnessed a day full of live shows that amazed visitors and showcased the diversity of cultural heritage and unique skills associated with hunting and equestrianism.
The day began with a special performance by the Jordanian Desert Forces Camel Show, followed by a captivating display of Friesian Stallion Show, and a falconry simulation featuring Falconry Hunting Simulation & Mongolian Hunting with Eagle Demo, which drew the attention of traditional hunting enthusiasts.
The Abu Dhabi Police Band impressed the audience with their musical performance, followed by a display of the Arabian Saluki, showcasing the agility of this noble breed. Camel and Friesian horse shows were repeated throughout the day, giving visitors multiple opportunities to enjoy them. The Arena continues to offer daily shows as part of a rich programme that blends entertainment and education, reflecting the spirit of authentic Emirati heritage.
This year, the exhibition features a rich programme of activities, shows, and competitions celebrating the UAE’s heritage and authentic culture, in harmony with the spirit of innovation and renewal. Through this unique blend, the exhibition continues to cement its position as a global platform for hunting and equestrian sports, a centre for education and knowledge exchange, a hub for business partnerships, and a pioneer in promoting innovative sustainability concepts.
To obtain tickets for the largest and most distinguished edition of the exhibition to date, visitors can visit the official website and choose the package that suits them.
