On March 9, 2023, an agreement was signed between His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, with the International Federation of Falconry Sports and Falcon Races. The agreement aims to host the permanent headquarters of the International Federation of Falconry Sports and Races in Dubai. This is a pioneering initiative by the United Arab Emirates to develop the sport of falconry at the global level.
Falconry in the culture of the United Arab Emirates
Falconry is an ancient popular practice of over 4,000 years in the United Arab Emirates. It is considered an integral part of their cultural heritage. Falcons are symbols of strength and nobility, and falconry is often regarded as a form of art. Prestigious falconry competitions are organized, with cash and in-kind prizes for falcon owners. The Emirates also have laws to protect falcons and regulate their use.
Creation of the International Federation of Falconry Sports and Falcon Races
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, issued directives to establish the International Federation of Falconry Sports and Races as an independent international sports entity. This new federation aims to develop the sport of falconry at the global level by establishing international standards and rules for falconry competitions.
He stated
This traditional sport could not have developed in the United Arab Emirates without the remarkable support provided by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The decision to host the International Federation of Falconry Sports and Races headquarters in the Emirates represents a major breakthrough for the country in the global sports sector. This initiative strengthens the country’s position as a leading sports destination and convergence point for international sports institutions and events. The country benefits from exceptional assets such as its integrated infrastructure and institutional environment conducive to the rapid growth of the sports sector.
The pioneering initiatives and achievements of the Emirates are supported by the country’s leaders. Indeed, the United Arab Emirates continuously strengthens its regional and global position in the sports field. The establishment of this federation’s headquarters will attract more international tournaments and increase the country’s visibility on the global sports map.
