Falconry is one of the UAE’s most treasured traditions, practised for over 2,000 years and passed down through generations. Falconers train their birds with patience and care, creating a deep bond between human and falcon.
The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father, shared in Falconry as a Sport, Our Arab Heritage, how early hunters skilfully caught and trained these majestic birds using simple, time-honoured techniques.
Today, you can experience falconry first-hand on desert safaris or by visiting the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, the world’s largest and most advanced of its kind. Located near Zayed International Airport, it features a falcon display museum and offers guided tours.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I see falcons in Abu Dhabi?
Most desert safari experiences offer a chance to discover falconry. You can also see falcons at special cultural shows performed in multiple destinations including Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.
Why is the falcon important to the UAE?
Falcons are a cultural symbol of the UAE, thanks to their part in their skill and unique personalities. This bird of prey played a vital role in Bedouins’ (nomadic Arab people) lives, with falcons hunting bustard, curlews and other animals for food.
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