ADIHEX 2026: A Celebration of Emirati Heritage
Abu Dhabi welcomed tens of thousands of residents and visitors to the 2026 edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX), marking it as the largest and most attended event in the exhibition’s history. Held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), the four-day festival showcased the deep-rooted traditions of desert falconry, Arabian horse culture, and sustainable heritage sports.
Record-Breaking Falcon Auctions
The highlight of ADIHEX 2026 was the soaring success of its falcon auctions, where a prized Saker falcon sold for AED 1.5 million — the highest price ever recorded at the event. Buyers from across the UAE and Gulf region competed fiercely, underscoring the enduring cultural and economic value of falconry as a heritage practice deeply woven into Emirati identity.
Electronic Shooting Draws 2,000+ Participants
In a nod to modernization and safety, the electronic shooting range attracted over 2,000 attendees from all ages and backgrounds. Families and youth experimented with simulated hunting experiences, blending tradition with technology under expert guidance. The initiative, supported by the UAE Ministry of Culture, emphasized responsible sport and environmental awareness.
M42 Debuts RASID Environmental Intelligence Platform
Technology giant M42 made its debut at ADIHEX with the RASID platform — an AI-powered environmental intelligence system designed to monitor desert ecosystems and wildlife migration patterns. The tool, developed in partnership with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, provides real-time data to support conservation efforts linked to falcon habitats and desert biodiversity.
VIP Attendance and National Pride
The event was graced by senior government officials, including the Minister of Climate Change and Environment, who commended ADIHEX for its role in preserving national heritage through innovation. Numerous Emirati families brought ancestral hunting attire and falcons, turning the exhibition into a living museum of cultural pride.
Preserving the Past, Building the Future
ADIHEX 2026 did more than display traditions — it redefined them. By integrating cutting-edge conservation tech, welcoming youth through interactive exhibits, and honoring the legacy of desert hunters, the event confirmed its status as the UAE’s most vital heritage festival. With over 150 global exhibitors and a 40% increase in local attendance compared to 2024, ADIHEX continues to set the global standard for cultural preservation in the modern age.
