Abu Dhabi: Birds chirped and dogs barked greeting guests as they entered the 39,000 metre-square Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) which commenced on Wednesday in the capital.
Spanning 39,000 square-metres and seven halls in total, the Exhibition covers all aspects of the hunting scene from the latest rifles, to daggers, swords and archery equipment.
The Al Ain Zoo, Abu Dhabi Police, Emirates Falcon Club and the International Fund for Houbara Conservation, among others, are all contributing by providing members of the public with a chance to witness animal performances, beauty pageants and even take some home.
“Here at the Abu Dhabi Animal Shelter, we have neutered, vaccinated and well groomed cats and dogs for Exhibition attendees to take home. We only charge a minimal cost of Dh420 for dogs and Dh400 for cats. All the animals have been found in the streets of Abu Dhabi and are all in great health and ready to be taken home,” said Dr Margit Muller, director of the Emirates Falcon Hospital.
Aside from domestic animals, Falcons used for hunting can also be purchased during the Exhibition. Therefore, the Emirates Falcon Hospital has set up an on-site clinic to asses the birds’ health before those interested can take them home.
“We have a full-fledged clinic with all the medical equipment ready for check-ups. If the bird is deemed fit and in good health, we can issue a health certificate on the spot which is especially useful for those who are planning on taking their falcons abroad,” Dr Muller added. The clinic can also deal with emergency cases if needed.
After going through a security check, visitors can enter the vast halls of the weaponry section where all the heavy duty equipment is kept. Merkel, a German subsidiary of Tawazun Holding, was showcasing the first of its kind ‘straight-pull’ rifle.
“Our RX. Helix is different from regular rifles because of its straight-pull mechanism which enables users to reload in a faster more convenient way. Merkel is the first to use this technology in its rifles,” said Anke Sauerteig from Merkels’ sales department.
“We have been participating at ADIHEX for over six years and this event counts as a great opportunity for us to meet those interested in purchasing our products. Many of our fire-arms are high-end traditional weapons with hand-made engravings,” she added.
