ADIHEX 2026 Concludes with Record 481,576 Visitors and Global Participation.
Abu Dhabi(News Desk):: The 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) has concluded under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club, setting new records for visitor numbers, international participation and falcon sales.
Held under the theme “A Legacy of Pride,” the 10-day exhibition attracted 481,576 visitors, representing a 27% increase compared with the 2025 edition. Organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon company, in strategic partnership with the Emirates Falconers’ Club, the 2026 edition was the largest in the exhibition’s history since its launch in 2003.
The exhibition brought together 2,405 exhibitors and brands from 71 countries, including six countries participating for the first time. Its total exhibition area expanded to 107,000 square metres, an increase of 17% compared with 2025.
The record-breaking edition also highlighted the continuing international appeal of falconry and traditional Emirati heritage. More than 618 falcons were sold during the exhibition and its accompanying auctions, marking growth of more than 44% compared with the previous edition.
The eight falcon auctions produced particularly notable results, with three falcons selling for more than AED 1 million each. A Pure Gyr Ultra White falcon achieved AED 2.1 million, setting a new record for the highest price paid for a falcon at the ADIHEX auction. Two further falcons sold for AED 1.5 million and AED 1.1 million.
A total of 426 falcons were registered under the ADIHEX Badge, qualifying them to participate in the President’s Cup Falconry Competition and the Ghayathi Falcon Competition.
Commenting on the success of the exhibition, His Excellency Majid Ali Al Mansouri, Secretary-General of the Emirates Falconers’ Club, said the latest edition demonstrated the remarkable development of ADIHEX since its establishment.
He noted that what began in 2003 as a heritage-focused gathering has developed into a major international platform for falconry, hunting, equestrian sports and outdoor activities.
Al Mansouri also highlighted Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a global centre for preserving Emirati heritage, traditional sports and environmental conservation, while thanking the UAE’s leadership for its continued support of the exhibition.
His Excellency Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Group CEO of ADNEC Group, said the 2026 edition delivered record results across key performance indicators and represented the largest edition in the event’s history.
He attributed the exhibition’s success to the support of the UAE leadership, the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, and the contributions of partners, exhibitors and visitors.
The 2026 exhibition featured 15 specialised sectors, covering falconry, hunting tourism and safari, veterinary products and services, environmental and cultural heritage preservation, hunting and shooting sports, equestrian activities, arts and crafts, caravans and recreational vehicles, fishing and marine sports, camping and outdoor equipment, camels, Arabian Salukis, knives and the Souq.
The live Arena provided an additional attraction for visitors, featuring competitions, auctions and demonstrations including the Falcon Beauty Contest, Arabian Saluki Beauty Contest, Arabian Horse Auction, International Dog Show and Emirati Handler’s Competition.
With its record visitor numbers, expanded footprint and strong international participation, ADIHEX 2026 further strengthened Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading destination for heritage, cultural tourism, outdoor sports and specialised exhibitions.
The exhibition also reinforced its role as an international platform connecting breeders, enthusiasts, businesses and specialists while supporting the preservation and promotion of the UAE’s traditional heritage.
ADIHEX 2027
The 24th Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition will return to ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from 27 August to 5 September 2027.
Organisers said the next edition will build on the achievements of 2026 with an expanded programme, greater international participation, new experiences for visitors and continued emphasis on heritage, innovation, sustainability and outdoor pursuits.
