The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition has reached its ninth day, attracting families and enthusiasts with immersive heritage displays, live animal demonstrations, and interactive learning sessions. Organisers highlight the event's expanded scale and its focus on preserving Emirati traditions.
As the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition enters its final stretch, organisers are reporting record visitor numbers and a surge of interest in the event's heritage-driven programming. The exhibition, now in its largest edition, has transformed the ADNEC Abu Dhabi venue into a living showcase of Emirati culture, with organisers from the "ADNEC Group" and strategic partner "Emirates Falconers Club" placing tradition at the centre of every activity.
Visitors arriving on the ninth day found themselves immersed in a series of live demonstrations and competitions that brought the region's hunting and equestrian legacy to life. The headline attraction was a simulated hunting contest featuring the Arabian Saluki, a breed revered in local culture for its historical role in desert life. Crowds gathered to watch handlers demonstrate the Saluki's agility and discipline, while experts explained the animal's significance in Emirati heritage.
Heritage and Interactive Experiences
Beyond the Saluki showcase, the exhibition floor buzzed with activity as falconry experts staged live hunting simulations with trained falcons, and Arabian horses took centre stage in a display of equestrian skill. The tent-pegging competition, a test of precision and horsemanship, drew applause as riders demonstrated techniques passed down through generations.
Security and public engagement also played a prominent role. Abu Dhabi Police staged a scenario exercise and presented their mounted unit, while the K9 team and police band offered interactive demonstrations. These displays gave visitors a rare look at the operational capabilities of specialised police units, blending public safety with cultural engagement.
Cultural Diversity and Knowledge Exchange
Organisers expanded the event's cultural reach with performances such as "Al Bahhara", a tribute to the UAE's maritime traditions, and the Japanese "Shoten Taiko" drum show, which introduced a global flavour to the programme. The interactive zone and "Majlis Al Ta'leem" hosted knowledge-sharing sessions focused on falconry and the preservation of intangible heritage, reinforcing the exhibition's role as a platform for international dialogue and collaboration.
With the event set to conclude after ten days, the 23rd edition has established itself as a comprehensive celebration of heritage, innovation, and community engagement. The scale and diversity of programming signal a deliberate effort to connect younger generations with the roots of Emirati identity, while also positioning Abu Dhabi as a regional hub for cultural exchange. The organisers' decision to blend live demonstrations, educational forums, and cross-cultural performances has elevated the exhibition beyond a traditional trade show, making it a dynamic arena for both learning and entertainment. This approach not only preserves tradition but also ensures its relevance in a rapidly changing society.
