Falcon merchants and breeders have been attending an auction in Abu Dhabi, where birds of prey changed hands for tens of thousands of dirhams.
Dozens of falcons were on sale at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, before the 20th Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition begins on August 30.
Four of this year's eight lots take place before the nine-day main event, which runs until September 7, with more than 1,000 falcons being assessed.
One of the first to buy a bird on Sunday night was Mubarak Al Amri, from Abu Dhabi, who collects falcons to use for hunting. He bought two at the auction – for Dh22,000 ($5,990) and Dh38,000, respectively.
“The auction is an easy way to own the best falcons. It attracts many merchants and collectors,” he said.
“Falconry is not a new practice or sport. There is a great connection between humans and these birds. In the past, life was harsh, birds were used for hunting to provide food to people. Pedigree birds of prey decorate the country's logos. It is a sign of pride.”
Hunting for deals
In total, nine falcons sold for Dh336,000 on Sunday evening. The highest bid was for a Gyrfalcon from the N1 falcon farm in the UAE, which went for Dh90,000.
Saif Al Meqbaly, 48, from Abu Dhabi, was also among those looking for a prized bird of prey. He already owns three birds and uses them for hunting and in competitions.
“I have been in love with falcons for the past 32 years,” he said. “The auction is a gateway to meet and get to know other enthusiasts in the UAE and around the globe.
“Collecting falcons is a hobby of our fathers and ancestors. We have a strong bond with these birds. Falcons are part of our heritage and tradition.”
The second round of the auction takes place from August 23 to 24. The remaining events will be held on August 30 and 31, with the final lots scheduled for September 6 and 7.
For 4,000 years, Bedouin in the UAE and the wider Arabian Peninsula have practised falconry as a form of hunting. It remains a popular sport and pastime and is a key feature of the UAE’s identity.
In 2023, a prized falcon fetched Dh600,000 at an auction held during the exhibition. A year earlier, a bidder spent Dh1.01 million for a Pure Gyr American ultra-white falcon.
In addition to in-person falcon auctions, a secure online platform will be launched on the opening day of the exhibition. The move aims to boost participation from local and international bidders.
The exhibition is to feature events displaying falconry, hunting, equestrian sports and fishing, as well as promoting environmental preservation and the UAE's culture.
