The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition takes aim
We watch intently as a flutter of wings take to the red sky. The falconer stretches out his arm, heavily padded in a thick leather glove, and whistles shrilly into the air.
The bird shoots off in an instant – a blur of white and gray feathers – before rounding in a graceful arc and diving terrifyingly close to the trainer. Another flash of colours and we collectively hold our breath as the bird swoops again, looking intent on grasping something with its black talons.
As the sun begins to set, the falconer whistles once more and the bird returns. Once he’s settled comfortably on the trainer’s arm, he receives his reward – a delicious dinner.
Graceful, deadly, and precise – it is no wonder these majestic birds are an integral part of local culture here in the Emirates. So even though the show is over all too quickly for our liking, we are delighted to have witnessed a glimpse into the UAE’s rich history.
And what better way to celebrate Emirati heritage than with a special event dedicated to all things traditional?
Time for tradition
The twelfth edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) will be held from 10th to 13th September at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Centre and is held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconer’s Club. Organised by the Emirates Falconer’s Club and Informa Exhibitions, the event is an annual celebration of all things cultural.
“Throughout the times and the changing generations, the traditional values and ethics of bedouins are being forgotten and it is our duty to preserve and celebrate them for future generations,” said Hamad AlGhanem, head of committee for Arabian Saluki Beauty Contests and Traditional Races, Breeder & Registrar General Saluki of Arabia.
The consumer and trade show focuses on traditional hunting, equestrian shows, weaponry, marine sports, arts and antiques and outdoor equipment. Sure to have a little bit of everything, visitors to the event are bound to find something to capture their imaginations.
International attractions
Eager to build on last year’s record turnout of 118,994 visitors, the latest edition of ADIHEX is promising to be bigger and better than ever. Featuring a number of international exhibitors from the GCC countries, Europe, Americas and more, the event has become a standout showcase in the region.
“ADIHEX has become an annual festival and a forum for all hunting, equestrian, camping and heritage enthusiasts,” said Shabeb Al Ajmi, director-general of Kashta, a Kuwaiti company selling camping equipment. “The regular participation of Kashta in ADIHEX is rooted in the company’s keenness to participate in the most important international exhibitions, most importantly this exhibition, which holds a great position on the international scene.”
Birds of a feather
The initiative is as much about celebrating heritage as it is about promoting sustainable hunting.
The sport of falconry is practised in more than 80 countries around the world and has a long, rich tradition here in the Emirates. In 2010, efforts by the UAE helped to see falconry be included in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Visitors will be able to learn more about the Wild Falcon Release Programme. Running since 1995, the initiative was launched by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, and sees hundreds of pure and Peregrine falcons released into their original habitats, in order to give them the opportunity to breed and increase their overall population.
And for those looking to see these beautiful birds crowned best in show, be sure to check out the various competitions taking place. Contests include the Falcon Beauty Contest, the Best Gyr-Peregrine Bred in Captivity, the best ‘three-quarter’ Bred Pure Gyr, the Best Gyr Male, the Best Pure Gyr and the Best Stand of Falconry and its Equipment.
Top Dog
Again this year, ADIHEX will host its ninth Arabian Saluki Beauty Contest. The beauty pageant for paws gives Saluki owners the opportunity to showcase their animals on an international scale and win attractive cash prizes.
“Following the astounding success of the previous editions, the contest is now established as a regional get-together for Saluki lovers and owners from all over the UAE as well as other GCC countries,” said AlGhanem.
Both smooth and feathered breeds will be judged by International Show Judge, Cathy Smith, of The Saluki Club of Australia on structure, general appearance, gait and movement. However, unlike other dog shows, the competition will also assess the Saluki’s hunting skills.
New this year is the ‘Lure Coursing Show.’ Simulating hunting in a humane way, the saluki will chase an artificial lure and show off their skills. To take place on Saturday, 13th September from 1pm to 5pm, the winners and runners-up from each class will be eligible to enter their dogs into the new contest.
Tech and toys
For those looking for the latest and greatest gadgets when it comes to camping, outdoor sports or even in terms of high-tech weapons for hunting season, ADIHEX has got you covered. Anything and everything will be on show, from handicrafts, sporting and equestrian equipment, to veterinary products and services.
Some of the international exhibitors on offer include American company, Cold Steel, which will be showcasing hunting blades, machetes, swords and axes. The Canadian company, Deep Trekker, will also be exhibiting and features various supplies and accessories meant to explore the depths of the sea. And for those looking to add a touch of glamour to their next safari, check out Kuwaiti company, Al-Gannas. Participating for the second time, the company will be offering a wide selection of hunting rifles inlaid with precious stones.
Regardless of your interests, ADIHEX certainly has all the bases covered. From culture, technology to animals, this celebration of local heritage is a diverse and unique way to learn more about the UAE. What more could you ask for?
Start with art
Abu Dhabi Week spoke to Emirati artist, Budour Al Ali, about her upcoming exhibition at ADIHEX. A big fan of the event, this will be her eighth time participation in the showcase. A rider herself, who has done both show jumping and endurance races, the horse and heritage-filled event was a perfect fit.
“I love horses and thought this was a great opportunity to do what I love. Art is my passion but the purpose is not only to sell my paintings; the aim is to hear feedback from visitors. It’s a great opportunity to learn more and advance.”
Showcasing her artworks of horses, camels, oryx, falcons and more, Al Ali encourages everyone to visit. “I have a responsibility to share what traditions we have and market Abu Dhabi to the world. It is the least I can do to give back.” For more, check out Budour’s paintings in Al Ali’s exhibition space, aptly named ‘There’s more to see.’
Want more?
ADIHEX will be hosted from 10th to 13th September at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Centre. Opening hours are from 11am to 10pm. Please note children under the age of 12 will not be allowed to attend, unless accompanied by an adult. To find out more visit: www.adihex.com
Sawaiba Khan
