Today's Edition
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
Get ready for a thrilling celebration of tradition and innovation as the 21st Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX 2024) kicks off this week.
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 event will run from August 31 to September 8 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi.
The event's agenda was announced on Wednesday at a press conference, attended by His Excellency Majed Ali Al Mansoori, Secretary-General of the Emirates Falconers Club, His Excellency Humaid Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group and Saad Al Hasani, ADIHEX Event Director.
Record International Participation
Al Mansoori highlighted the significance of this year's exhibition as a milestone in a journey of success and development that spanned two decades.
He attributed this achievement to the ongoing support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The ADIHEX has evolved significantly since its inception in 2003, expanding by 14 times from 6,000 square metres to over 87,000 square metres this year.
Over the same period, the number of exhibitors has also surged by 43 times from 40 to 1,742, according to Al Mansouri.
He noted that the upcoming exhibition is anticipated to draw unprecedented global interest, with participation soaring to a record high.
This year, 65 countries will be represented, a significant increase from the 14 countries at the first edition.
Furthermore, over 600 media representatives are expected to cover the diverse range of events featured in the 2024 edition.
Al Mansoori also highlighted the integral role ADIHEX plays in promoting and celebrating Arab heritage and authentic traditions in line with the vision of the UAE's wise leadership and through the cooperative efforts of all strategic partners, including the Emirates Falconers' Club and ADNEC Group.
Rare Falcons Auctions
This year, ADIHEX will feature live and online auctions for elite and rare falcons, reflecting the UAE's dedication to preserving and enhancing this cultural practice, said Al Mansoori.
Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the exhibition will introduce the ADIHEX badge for falcons, which qualifies them to join the next rounds of the His Highness the President of the State's Cup Championship for the season 2024-2025, he added.
Total prizes will amount to Dh760,000 divisible by Dh190,000 for the first 10 places in each category.
'Embracing the Future, Honouring the Past' Under the theme "Embracing the future, honouring the past", this year's edition of ADIHEX is set to further solidify Abu Dhabi's legacy as a pioneer in the hunting, equestrian and falconry sectors, shaping values and practices to be transmitted through generations, Al Mansouri stated.
He also pointed out that the new edition will witness a significant presence of exhibiting companies, falconers, and hunting and heritage sports enthusiasts from the Arabian Gulf countries, which reflects the depth of relations between these nations, and their shared cultural values and collaborative efforts in preserving traditional sports and promoting sustainable hunting practices.
National Companies Account for 68 percent of Exhibitors
For his part, Al Dhaheri also confirmed that this year's exhibition will feature a record number of participants, with over 1,742 exhibiting companies - a 58.5 percent increase from the previous year, while the total exhibition area has grown by 34 percent to more than 87,000 square metres, and the number of participating countries increased, with 14 new additions this year.
Al Dhaheri added that 435 national companies will participate in the exhibition, accounting for 68 percent of the exhibiting companies with the remaining 32 percent being international companies.
These figures are a testament to the significant progress made by national industries specialised in these vital sectors and the role played by the exhibition in enhancing the sector's competitiveness and ability to access global markets, he said.
The record growth in performance indicators for this year's exhibition highlights the exceptional efforts of ADNEC Group and the Emirates Falconers Club to uphold Abu Dhabi's esteemed reputation globally, added Al Dhaheri.
He emphasised that ADNEC Group's organisation of the ADIHEX aligns with the vision of the UAE's wise leadership to advance the business tourism, exhibitions and conferences sector.
The Group was also focused on expanding the scope of existing exhibitions related to heritage, culture, environmental tourism, and the preservation and sustainability of wildlife.
Through establishing itself as a global platform through which the UAE's rich cultural heritage is showcased, Al Dhaheri noted that the ADIHEX contributed to enhancing the nation's capabilities and preserving its cultural and environmental heritage for future generations.
The exhibition also played an integral role in attracting industry leaders and specialised companies from five continents around the world to forge partnerships and ultimately add value to the national economy, he added.
Blending Tradition and Innovation
Saad Al-Hasani, ADIHEX Event Director, said: "ADIHEX has continually evolved by embracing innovation while also staying true to the core values of Emirati culture and heritage."
The exhibition will cover a range of sectors, including Hunting, Shooting Sports Guns & Equipment; Hunting Tourism & Safari; Preservation of Culture and Heritage; Arts & Crafts; Recreational Vehicles & Motorhomes; Fishing Equipment & Marine Sports; Outdoor Leisure Vehicle & Equipment; Hunting & Camping Equipment; Veterinary Products & Services; Falconry; and Equestrian, Al-Hasani said.
Each sector will provide a comprehensive exploration of traditional and modern outdoor pursuits, catering to diverse interests.
This year's edition will also introduce 13 new features, offering both visitors and exhibitors a unique experience.
Notable additions include the Zayed National Museum's display of falconry and hunting artifacts, according to Al-Hasani.
"Whether they are hunting and equestrian enthusiasts or looking to immerse themselves in the region's cultural heritage, visitors to ADIHEX can explore cultural exhibitions, breathtaking traditional performances, and live historical displays that celebrate the rich heritage of the UAE at the 11 enhanced sectors," he said.
The exhibition also features exclusive offers, opportunities to connect with manufacturers and suppliers, and raffles with various prizes.
