The King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival: A Celebration of Heritage, Competition, and Record-Breaking Prizes
By Islam Salah
Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival is back in full swing, and this year, it’s bigger than ever. With a prize pool exceeding SAR 36 million, the festival has become a must-see event for both falconry enthusiasts and those who want to explore Saudi culture.
Held from December 3 to 19 at the Saudi Falcons Club’s headquarters in Malham, just north of Riyadh, the festival is a celebration of one of the Kingdom’s oldest and most cherished traditions: falconry!
The Festival Experience
Through exhibitions, demonstrations, and interactive activities, this event offers an engaging way to experience the ancient tradition firsthand.
The King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival is more than a competition; it’s a cultural gathering. This year, the event features 138 rounds of both falcon racing and a falcon beauty pageant, with SAR 36 million in prizes up for grabs.
Competitors will face off in several categories, including the King Abdulaziz Cup and the King’s Sword. The festival also makes history with the introduction of a dedicated women’s Al-Mellwah race, giving female falconers a chance to showcase their skills and compete for top honors.
Besides that, the festival includes pavilions where attendees can learn about the ins and outs of falconry through modern technology. Other showcases feature falconry gear, hunting tools, and camping equipment, giving visitors a better understanding of the sport and its cultural impact.
A Rich History of Falconry
Falconry has deep roots in Saudi culture, dating back over 10,000 years. It was once a crucial practice for hunting in the harsh desert landscape of the Arabian Peninsula, where falcons were valued for their speed, precision, and role in ensuring survival.
Over the centuries, falconry evolved from a survival tool to a sport, especially among the region’s elite. Today, owning a falcon is a symbol of status and heritage, and the sport is still practiced widely across Saudi Arabia and the Gulf.
The King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival pays tribute to this rich history, bringing together the region’s top falconers to showcase their skills and the beauty of these majestic birds. It’s also an opportunity to ensure that the art of falconry is passed on to younger generations.
The Future of Falconry
While the festival celebrates the past, it also looks to the future. One of the most exciting aspects of the event is how it’s breaking barriers.
As falconry continues to grow, the festival remains a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing modernity.
So, whether you’re a falconry expert or simply curious about Saudi culture, the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival offers an opportunity to experience one of the Kingdom’s most treasured traditions.
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