Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
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 Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) returns for its largest edition yet, running from August 28 to September 6. For the first time, the exhibition has been extended to 10 days.
The 23rd ADIHEX at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi will run 30% more events than last year, ADNEC Group CEO Humaid Al Dhaheri told Aletihad.
"We have a diverse programme of events designed to present a clear picture of our heritage, which we cherish," Al Dhaheri said. "We offer a wide range of activities for all segments of society."
The exhibition, open daily from 10am to 10pm, is organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon company, in strategic partnership with the Emirates Falconers' Club.
Held under the banner "Our Heritage. Our Identity", the largest-ever ADIHEX is expecting record participation from companies and brands across 15 sectors, showcasing the latest equipment, technologies and heritage experiences from around the world.
"We have reached 2,405 companies and brands, with a growth rate of 17% compared to the previous edition," Al Dhaheri said. National companies account for 60% of participants, with international companies making up the remaining 40% from 71 countries, he added. More than 50 falcon farms are taking part, including nine for the first time.
Ahmad Shaker, CEO of Capital 360 & Events, said ADIHEX 2026 builds on the success of previous editions with a more comprehensive experience for visitors, exhibitors and partners.
The exhibition spans 15 main sectors, covering hunting, equestrianism, falconry, travel, camping, heritage sports and related industries, with more than 43 cultural and entertainment activities scheduled throughout, he said.
The venue has been expanded to match the scale of the event. "It includes a new exhibition hall spanning 15,000 square metres to meet the growing demand from exhibitors and enhance the visitor and participant experience," Shaker said, adding that the arena's capacity for live shows and auctions has tripled.
From a Heritage Event to a Leading Platform
Beyond its scale, Al Dhaheri said the exhibition gives experts, specialists and stakeholders a platform to build partnerships, exchange expertise, and showcase innovations and sustainable practices while preserving the UAE's heritage.
"This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our leadership and their constant commitment to safeguarding the nation's achievements and resources, and passing on our cultural heritage to future generations," he added.
Majid Ali Al Mansouri, Secretary-General of the Emirates Falconers' Club, also credited ADIHEX's growth to the UAE leadership's vision that has ensured Emirati heritage remains a living part of society, rather than just a memory of the past.
"What began in 2003 as a promising heritage event has evolved into the region's leading platform for celebrating Emirati identity," Al Mansouri said.
"Every edition has added a new chapter to this story and, this year, during the Year of Family, we are proud to welcome families to discover the world of falconry and heritage together, ensuring that these enduring traditions continue to be passed from one generation to the next, as they have been throughout history."
That family focus runs through the exhibition. Shaker said its programme will combine Emirati and international heritage through live performances, traditional crafts and cultural experiences, alongside new competitions and events, including Arabian horse auctions and Saluki races.
The Heritage Village will feature handicrafts and Arabic coffee demonstrations, alongside a dedicated children's area with workshops and interactive activities centred on Emirati heritage. The space, Shaker said, is designed to foster pride in national identity from a young age and promote sustainable hunting and environmental conservation.
Falcons in Spotlight
Saad Al-Hasani, ADIHEX Event Director, said falcon auctions will be a major draw for the 23rd edition. The highly prized birds of prey will be judged against international standards for bird quality, pedigree, health, and overall distinction.
The first auction rounds were held on August 15 and 16, with further sessions scheduled for August 22, 23, 29 and 30, before the final competitions on September 5 and 6.
"Each participating bird undergoes rigorous stages of examination, evaluation, selection and filtering by specialised committees to ensure that only birds meeting the established criteria reach the platform," he said. Assessments weigh breed purity, lineage, health and aesthetic qualities.
Al-Hasani also pointed to a new addition this year: the Exhibition Badge for Falcons, awarded during the auction rounds and exhibition days, which will qualify eligible falcons for the UAE President's Falconry Cup in the 2026–2027 season.
"We are committed to continuously developing the falcon auctions year after year, thereby enhancing the exhibition's standing and its role in preserving and sustaining the legacy of Emirati falconry for future generations," Al-Hasani said.
