Abu Dhabi, 4th September 2024: The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) held its annual Falcon Beauty Contest at the Arena on the 5th day of the event, showcasing some of the most beautiful falcons the exhibition has to offer. The event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, attracted falcon enthusiasts from across the globe.

During the competition, 10 falcons were on display, reflecting the UAE’s rich cultural heritage, where falconry is a symbol of pride, strength, and tradition. The competition featured two main categories: Most Beautiful Saker and Most Beautiful Gyr. The falcons were judged based on various criteria, including weight and body measurements, feather symmetry and colour, head and body details, overall aesthetic appearance, and health.

This year’s contest saw a remarkable increase in the quality and diversity of birds, reflecting ADIHEX's commitment to enhancing the standards of falconry. Falcon chicks up to one year old competed, captivating audiences with their elegance and grace.

A distinguished judging panel of local and international experts evaluated the falcons. The contest has gained a global reputation, attracting participants from renowned falcon farms worldwide. It is highly regarded by regional and international organizations dedicated to heritage preservation and environmental conservation, motivating falconers to protect wild falcons.

In a remarkable display of falconry excellence, Eliasat triumphed in the Most Beautiful Gyr category. Owned by AD Falcons, the winning falcon captivated the judges with its exceptional features, striking plumage, and flawless presentation. AD Falcons also secured second and third place in this category.

In the Most Beautiful Saker category, Gelmod, another falcon owned by AD Falcons, claimed both first and second place. The third place was a tie between AD Falcons and Al Sharagha Falcon, showcasing their birds' unmatched grace, strength, and impeccable training. This outstanding performance further cemented AD Falcons' reputation as a leader in the art of falconry.

The Falcon Beauty Contest at ADIHEX continues to play a pivotal role in celebrating and promoting the art of falconry, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s status as a global leader in preserving and celebrating this timeless tradition.

The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) is the region's largest exhibition dedicated to the heritage and culture of hunting, equestrianism, and outdoor sports. Organized by the ADNEC Group, ADIHEX attracts participants and visitors from around the world, offering a platform for education, cultural exchange, and trade.