The UAE Falcons Federation Board of Directors met in Abu Dhabi to approve a full slate of activities and initiatives for the 2024 falconry season. The session focused on how to broaden participation in falconry and falcon racing and reinforce the sport's place in the UAE's competitive sporting calendar.
The board extended its gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of the UAE Falcons Federation, acknowledging his sustained support and passion for falconry as a driving force behind the sport's continued growth.
Board Approvals for the 2024 Falconry Season
The meeting was chaired by Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE Falcons Federation. Board members present included Rashid bin Markhan, Secretary-General of the Federation, alongside Abdullah Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Saeed Khalifa Al Muhairi, Abdulaziz Sultan Al Ali, Mohammed Issa Al Khaili, Mohammed Abdullah Ahmed bin Dalmouk, Mubarak Saif Al Mansouri, and Yousef Abdullah Al Ali.
The Board ratified:
- The auditor general's report for 2023 - The consolidated financial statements for the financial year ended June 2023 - The budget estimate for the financial year 2024 - Operational guidelines and activities planned for the 2024 season
Youth Strategy and Development Goals
Sheikh Zayed emphasised the importance of building on the Federation's integrated plan, stating the need to "work on the development and promotion of falconry" with the primary goal of spreading and expanding the base of the sport among the younger generation — instilling in them the values and heritage it represents.
He pointed to the measurable outcomes of this approach, highlighting the steady rise in competition participation rates across events organised by the Federation.
Falconry's Growing Popularity in the UAE
Secretary-General Rashid bin Markhan outlined how the Federation has served as the focal point for raising awareness of falconry competitions and events across the country. These outreach efforts have helped attract new enthusiasts, grow participation, and cement falconry's status as a major sporting discipline in the UAE.
The UAE Falcons Federation continues to position the ancient art of falconry — recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage — as both a competitive sport and a living tradition for future generations.
