Discover Why Falconry is More Than Just a Sport in UAE!

REAL ESTATE1 month ago

When you think of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), tall skyscrapers, luxury cars, and modern shopping malls may come to mind. But hidden behind this modern life is a deep and respected tradition that has been passed from generation to generation – Falconry.

This ancient art is more than just hunting with birds; in the UAE, it represents pride, culture, history, and even family honor. Falconry is such a treasured part of Emirati life that UNESCO recognized it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010.

Let’s take you into the fascinating world of falconry in the UAE and understand why this tradition still flies high in the desert lands.

A History of Falcons and the Desert

Falconry began thousands of years ago in the Arabian Peninsula. Long before oil, glass buildings, or fancy cars, Bedouins (the desert-dwelling tribes) used falcons to hunt wild birds and small animals like hares for food. In the harsh desert environment, falcons became trusted hunting partners.

But falconry was not just about survival. For the Bedouins, the bond with a falcon showed a man’s patience, bravery, and skills. Training a falcon takes time, care, and great respect – values that are deeply rooted in Arab culture.

Over the years, as life in the UAE changed, the purpose of falconry moved from survival to sport and cultural heritage. Today, falconry reflects the connection between Emiratis and their desert roots.

Falconry in Modern UAE Life

Even as the cities of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah grew into global centers, falconry remained an important part of local life. Many families in the UAE still raise and train falcons. These beautiful birds are highly valued – some are even worth thousands or millions of dirhams.

There are special falcon hospitals in the UAE, such as the famous Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, where birds receive world-class medical care. Falcons also have their own passports to travel legally across countries.

In winter, when the weather is cooler, falconry festivals, competitions, and races are held across the country. The President’s Cup Falcon Competition and the Al Dhafra Festival are two big events where the best falconers show off their trained birds. The races are thrilling, with falcons diving at speeds over 300 km/h to catch lures or win prizes.

Children are also learning falconry from their elders, keeping the tradition alive for the future.

The Training of a Falcon: A Special Bond

Training a falcon is not easy. It takes weeks or even months to turn a young falcon into a skilled hunter or racer.

First, a falconer earns the trust of the bird. The falcon learns to return to the falconer’s arm when called. It is fed carefully with high-protein diets, including special meats like quail or pigeon. The falconer spends hours daily with the bird to create a strong bond.

A trained falcon wears a small leather hood called a “burqa”, which covers its eyes and keeps it calm until the hunt or race begins.

This special relationship between the falcon and its trainer is full of patience, respect, and understanding – making falconry not just a sport, but a spiritual practice.

Falcons as a Symbol of the Nation

In the UAE, falcons are national symbols of strength, pride, and freedom. You can see falcon images on banknotes, logos, stamps, and government symbols. They remind the people of their roots and the importance of tradition in a fast-changing world.

For tourists, falconry offers a chance to experience true Emirati culture. Many desert safari tours include falconry shows where visitors can watch these majestic birds fly and even hold a falcon on their arm for a photo.

Some luxury hotels and resorts offer private falconry displays, giving visitors an unforgettable glimpse into this ancient art.

Challenges to Falconry Traditions

As the world changes, falconry in the UAE also faces challenges. The cost of keeping falcons, caring for them, and training them is high. Environmental changes also affect wild falcon populations.

However, the UAE government, along with environmental groups, is working hard to protect falcon species and maintain safe falconry practices. Captive breeding programs, falcon rescue centers, and education campaigns are helping ensure that future generations can continue this heritage.

Falconry: A Living Treasure of the UAE

For the Emirati people, falconry is more than just a hobby. It is a connection to their history, their ancestors, and the desert. It teaches patience, strength, skill, and respect for nature.

Whether in the quiet sands of the desert or the shining towers of Abu Dhabi, the spirit of the falcon continues to fly high, reminding the world of a culture that treasures its past even while reaching for the future.

So next time you visit the UAE, don’t miss the chance to witness falconry – a living symbol of this remarkable nation.