UAE to host its first most Beautiful Falcon Hood contest 

Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition announced the launch of a unique competition for the first time in its history, aiming to select the most beautiful and best authentic falcon hood (burqa). 

The upcoming 19^th edition of ADIHEX is organized by Emirates Falconers’ Club from September 26 to October 2, 2022. Its official sponsors are the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, International Fund for Houbara Conservation, and Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre where the event is being held. Moreover, the sponsor of the “Hunting Guns” sector is Caracal International LLC, the visitor experience partner is POLARIS-Specialized Sports Equipment, the features sponsors are Smart Design and the Royal Tent Company, the official Automotive partner is the ARB Emirates, while the supportive partner is the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 

The falcon hood (burqa) is a vital tool in training falcons to hunt. It is important to carefully choose the comfortable size with respect to the falcon. The hood (burqa) is a cover that the falconer puts on the entire head of the falcon (preventing it from seeing) and has a small opening from which its beak comes out. It is usually made of soft leather and may have different shapes and colours. 

The (burqa) is made either manually, according to its type, or mechanically by companies concerned with falconry tools. It helps the falcon to rest by blocking the rays and light from its eyes and is considered essential for the falcon so that it does not unnecessarily leap from the hand of its falconer, or jump on the prey prematurely, which results in weakening its strength and determination. 

The criteria adopted in the evaluation, depend mainly on the extent of efficiency and usefulness of the hood, so that the falcon feels comfortable, also the overall beautiful appearance of the hood and the quality of the materials from which it is made of. It should be offered at a suitable price, in addition to the aesthetic image from a heritage aspect. Whereas participation is limited to manufacturers of handmade hoods from falconers, artisans, and companies alike. 

The jury consists of experts specialized in falconry and its equipment, as well as members of the Emirates Falconers Club. 

In early July, ADIHEX announced the opening of admissions for participating in its specialized heritage, artistic and cultural competitions, where registration will be available until the end of next month; 45 prizes have been allocated for various competitions which include 27 branches and categories. 

The theme of the upcoming edition of ADIHEX is “Sustainability and Heritage … A Reborn Aspiration”, which reflects the efforts of Abu Dhabi and the world to enhance the sustainability of the environment, hunting, heritage sports and related businesses, and to formulate a comprehensive strategy to develop the event and create more events and activities built on the successes of the past editions in a creative renewed spirit. 

UAE falcon hood contest UAE falcon hood contest