Publication Date: 5 Sep 2025
Abu Dhabi, September 5, 2025: The seventh day of the 22nd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) drew a diverse and enthusiastic crowd, set against a backdrop of heritage and adventure. The exhibition featured a dynamic lineup of events and activities, underscoring its status as the largest event of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa, dedicated to falconry, equestrianism, culture, heritage, and outdoor sports.
The exhibition is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club. ADIHEX 2025 is taking place at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi until September 7, and organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon Holding company, in cooperation with the Emirates Falconers Club.
The falcon beauty contest was a highlight, with 15 falcons competing in the categories of Hur, Gharmoush, and Pure Gyr representing national and international farms. The KH Falcon farm secured the top three places in the Pure Gyr category, as well as first and third in the Gharmoush category, with a falcon from Al Dhafra Falcon Farm winning second place. The Golden Estate falcons also claimed the top three places in the Hur category, impressing the judges with their aesthetic appeal, feather symmetry and overall presentation. This contest is among the exhibition’s most prestigious events, playing a key role in enhancing Abu Dhabi’s global standing in falconry and preserving this cherished cultural heritage for future generations.
The Arena showcased an impressive live display of 36 exceptional horses, carefully selected for their outstanding achievements in local and international competitions. Many of these horses have earned top rankings at prestigious events such as the Sharjah International Arabian Horse Festival, the Abu Dhabi International Championship and the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, reflecting their superior breeding and competitive excellence. The Arabian Horse Auction, organised in cooperation with the Emirates Arabian Horse Society, attracted a distinguished group of breeders, owners, and horse enthusiasts from around the globe. The auction was marked by fierce bidding, reflecting the high demand for these exquisite animals known around the globe for their beauty, grace and purity of lineage. The event was a celebration of heritage, luxury and equestrian excellence, with a selection of some of the finest Arabian horses from leading stud farms.
The Knowledge Hub also became a central destination for visitors seeking education and a hands-on experience, offering a lively and informative atmosphere for all. A standout event was the Black Spots workshop organised by the Abu Dhabi Police, which sought to address traffic challenges in critical areas and presented innovative solutions to improve public safety, drawing strong engagement from the many attendees.
Exhibitor booths, both local and international, attracted significant visitor interest – especially in camping and hunting equipment. All halls buzzed with activity as visitors of all ages explored the vibrant, heritage-rich atmosphere, and attendees discovered the latest innovations and products across the exhibition’s fifteen diverse sectors. ADIHEX 2025 has become a popular social hub where friends meet and enjoy the wide variety of food and drink offered round the clock by Capital Catering.
The exhibition offered a range of educational and engaging activities for all ages. Falconry enthusiasts gained valuable insights into different falcon species and training techniques, while visitors received expert advice on proper nutrition for puppies and kittens. Families and children enjoyed interactive storytelling sessions blending entertainment with learning. Additionally, sessions focused on medical emergencies and nutrition for horses and camels provided in-depth knowledge from veterinary specialists, ensuring a well-rounded program that appealed to both heritage lovers and animal care professionals.
ADIHEX also highlighted pioneering Emirati businesswomen who shared inspiring stories of success, showcasing their significant contributions to heritage, innovation and entrepreneurship. The day ended with the announcement of the daily raffle winners, amid a festive atmosphere marked by enthusiastic audience participation.
The Arena on the seventh day featured spectacular shows that seamlessly blending authentic heritage with modern technology. There were impressive displays from the Camel Unit of the Royal Jordanian Desert Forces, while an eagle show astonished attendees with the bird’s beauty and power. Cutting-edge AI technology demonstrated advanced horse health analysis, exemplifying modern veterinary care.
Visitors also enjoyed displays of the Arabian Saluki alongside hunting simulations, while a Mongolian eagle hunting show transported the audience to traditional hunting scenes of the Asian steppes. Ali Al Ameri led an session titled The Art of the Liberty Work.
The day concluded with an elegant musical performance by the Abu Dhabi Police Band, adding a festive tone to a culturally and technically diverse day.
ADIHEX continues to establish itself as a comprehensive platform that blends culture, education, and entertainment, while uniquely celebrating Emirati identity and preserving its global heritage.