Hunting exhibition opens on Wednesday

Abu Dhabi: Majestic falcons, traditional handicrafts as well as the latest hunting and equestrian equipment are all set to take centre stage in the capital this week when the ninth edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex) opens its doors on Wednesday.

The annual four-day event, which is held under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Western Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers' Club, will this year also introduce an archery competition for all UAE residents and qualified visitors above the age of 16, Abdullah Butti Al Qubaisi, event director of Adihex, told Gulf News.

"And in addition to other popular contests, we will also see the well-liked falcon beauty pageant returning this year," said Al Qubaisi, who is also communication director at the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage (Adach.)

The 31,000 square metre exhibition will see 596 companies from 28 countries displaying hunting equipment, falconry tools and implements used in equestrianism, and will also include a host of stalls highlighting traditions such as palm weaving and the art of making traditional Arabian coffee.

"When this festival began, we wanted to protect the endangered wild falcon species from being used for falconry. And I am happy to note that today, the majority of falcons used for hunting are hybrids, which means we have achieved one of Adihex's major aims," Al Qubaisi said.

The event director added the event would continue creating awareness about traditional arts and activities such as equestrianism, fishing and falconry, for the younger generation.

"Culture never dies, but it is important to bring it home to children, which is what a slew of activities like painting and photography will continue to do this year as well," he added.

At a press conference held yesterday, Lara Sawaya, director of the Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Global Arabian Horse Flat Racing Festival, also said a series of important announcements about the equestrian event were to be made during Adihex, which would make Abu Dhabi the worldwide capital of the sport.

Affirming this Mohammad Khalaf Al Mazroui, Adach director-general and adviser for culture and heritage at the Crown Prince's Court, said the strategy put in place allows the exhibition to grow an average of ten per cent year on year.

Information

What: Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex)

When: September 14-17

Where: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre

Timings: 5pm-10pm on September 14; 11am to 10pm on September 15-17

Website: www.adihex.net