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Time of India
an hour ago
- Business
- Time of India
UAE: Falcon prices hit $10,000 at Abu Dhabi auctions ahead of major hunting and equestrian expo
Prized birds of prey sold for tens of thousands of dirhams in Abu Dhabi/Representative Image Falcon merchants and collectors from across the UAE and beyond flocked to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre this weekend for a series of auctions that saw prized birds of prey sold for tens of thousands of dirhams. The sales precede the prestigious 20th Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, where more than 1,000 falcons will be showcased, cementing the region's deep-rooted heritage of falconry. TL;DR: Falcons fetched prices up to Dh38,000 at Abu Dhabi auctions, ahead of the main exhibition. Four out of eight auctions are held before the nine-day Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, starting August 30. Falconry, a tradition spanning over 4,000 years in the Arabian Peninsula, remains a central part of UAE culture and identity. Details of the auction & exhibition This year, auctions at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre are attracting merchants, breeders, and collectors eager to acquire top pedigree falcons. Notable sales included two birds purchased by Mubarak Al Amri for Dh22,000 and Dh38,000, used primarily for hunting, a practice that links present generations to their ancestors. Participants like Saif Al Meqbaly highlight falconry as a family tradition, reflecting lifelong passion and the enduring bond between local communities and these birds. The auction series forms part of the lead-up to the main event, the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, running August 30 to September 7. Over 1,000 falcons will be assessed for pedigree, health, and suitability for competition or hunting. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Use an AI Writing Tool That Actually Understands Your Voice Grammarly Install Now Undo In recent years, top birds fetched extraordinarily high prices, one falcon was sold for Dh600,000 in 2023, while another set a record at Dh1.01 million in 2022. For 2025, a secure online bidding platform will be launched, making prestigious falcon auctions accessible to international enthusiasts and buyers. The Falcon: Symbolism & heritage in the UAE Falcons are revered symbols throughout the UAE and Arabian Peninsula. These majestic birds are central to Emirati identity, often depicted on national logos and heritage symbols. Falconry has been practiced for about 4,000 years, originally used by Bedouin as a vital hunting method for survival in harsh desert environments. Modern falconry blends sport, tradition, and conservation efforts. Today's competitions, breeding, and auctions emphasize pedigree, health, and ethical standards. The UAE remains a leading hub for the breeding, training, and trade of falcons worldwide, with strict regulations to ensure their welfare. The Abu Dhabi falcon auctions and the upcoming exhibition highlight deep respect for the past and innovative steps for global participation. Falconry remains a living heritage, uniting generations, fostering international exchange, and symbolizing pride across the Arabian Peninsula. FAQ 1. How much did falcons sell for at the Abu Dhabi auction? Falcons at the auction were sold for up to Dh38,000, with even higher prices in previous years. 2. What is the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition? It's a major annual event featuring falconry, equestrian sports, hunting, fishing, and conservation, held from August 30 to September 7, 2025. 3. Can bidders participate in falcon auctions online? Yes, a secure online platform will be launched this year to enable international bidding. 4. Why are falcons significant in UAE culture? Falconry has been part of Arabian heritage for over 4,000 years; falcons symbolize tradition, pride, and are featured on national logos. 5. What happens at a falcon auction? Merchants, breeders, and collectors bid on pedigree falcons for hunting, competition, and breeding, sometimes spending hundreds of thousands of dirhams.
The National
2 days ago
- Business
- The National
Bidders swoop for prized falcons at Abu Dhabi auction
Falcon merchants and breeders attended auctions this weekend in Abu Dhabi, where birds of prey changed hands for tens of thousands of dirhams. Dozens of falcons have been 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 auctions 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 falcons at the auction – bidding 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 sign of pride.' Hunting for deals 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 auctions 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.
