ABU DHABI: The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) held its annual Falcon Beauty Contest on the fifth day of the event at the Arena, featuring some of the finest falcons. Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the event drew falcon enthusiasts from around the world.

The competition showcased 10 falcons, highlighting the UAE’s rich cultural tradition of falconry. The contest had two main categories: Most Beautiful Saker and Most Beautiful Gyr. Falcons were judged on weight, body measurements, feather symmetry and colour, and overall health and appearance.

This year saw a notable improvement in the quality and diversity of the birds, reflecting ADIHEX’s dedication to advancing falconry standards. Young falcon chicks also competed, impressing with their elegance.

A panel of local and international experts evaluated the entries. The contest’s global reputation attracted participants from well-known falcon farms worldwide and is highly valued by heritage and environmental organisations, encouraging the protection of wild falcons.

In the Most Beautiful Gyr category, Eliasat, owned by AD Falcons, won first place, praised for its exceptional features and presentation. AD Falcons also secured the second and third places in this category. For the Most Beautiful Saker category, Gelmod, another falcon from AD Falcons, took both first and second places, with the third place shared between AD Falcons and Al Sharagha Falcon. This result underscored AD Falcons’ expertise in falconry.

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The Falcon Beauty Contest at ADIHEX plays a crucial role in celebrating falconry and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s leadership in preserving this tradition. ADIHEX, organised by the ADNEC Group, is the region’s largest exhibition focused on hunting, equestrianism, and outdoor sports, offering a global platform for education and cultural exchange.