ABU DHABI | August 24, 2026
A prized pure Gyr falcon sold for Dh255,000 at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) auction, highlighting the enduring prestige of falconry in the UAE and across the Gulf. The winning bid was placed by Bahraini falconer Salman Albalooshi, who secured the locally bred bird during one of the exhibition’s most anticipated heritage events.
The auction, held at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi ahead of ADIHEX 2026, attracted elite breeders, merchants and falcon enthusiasts from across the region. Dozens of high-quality falcons were evaluated for their size, weight, feather quality and pedigree before a select group qualified for bidding. Organisers also offered live online participation, expanding access to international buyers.
Falconry has been practised on the Arabian Peninsula for nearly 4,000 years and remains a cornerstone of Emirati cultural identity. Albalooshi described the tradition as a shared Gulf heritage, saying passionate falconers often prioritise finding the perfect bird over its price, especially for competitions and breeding.
ADIHEX 2026 will run from August 28 to September 6, featuring falconry, hunting, equestrian sports, fishing and environmental conservation exhibitions. The falcon auction continues to serve as both a cultural celebration and a thriving marketplace for some of the region’s most valuable birds of prey
