A two day International Festival of Falconry at Englefield Estate is beginning today. International conservationists, policy makers and scientists will hold high profile meetings with the Emirates Falconers Club in Berkshire, UK. The festival is aimed at generating public awareness about the threats to this traditional sport. For this purpose, a simulation of a typical UAE village has been created in the deer park of the Englefield Estate. It recreates the magic of old Emirates, with camels, Bedouin tents, salukis (hunting dogs) and falcons completing the picture. Visitors will get to meet falconers and conservation experts from the UAE. Falconers from around 30 countries will be showcasing their talent in the festival.

Falconry is one of the traditional pastimes of Dubai since ages. The origin of falconry dates back to more than 2000 years. At first, falcons were used for hunting hares, bustards and houbara in order to obtain meat. It was also a way of life for tribal leaders wherein they would engage in this entertainment activity during the day and in the evening, they would spend time with their subjects around the campfire. As hunting companions to saluki hunting dogs, falcons were also used in taking down gazelles.

The capturing, taming and training of falcons require tremendous patience, skill and courage. To ensure a proper handling of the birds, there are a number of federal and emirate laws in place. Under the Emirates Bird Ringing Scheme, a microchip is inserted under each bird’s skin and a ring with a unique identification number is fitted on its leg. This enables scientists and conservationists in keeping a track of the birds and their migratory patterns. A couple of years ago, a campaign to issue passports to these birds was undertaken. This was aimed at checking the illegal trade of falcons.

Today, falconry is an endangered branch of Dubai’s rich cultural legacy. Rapid urbanization in the UAE over the last few years has adversely affected the natural habitat of the falcons. Moreover, new falconers do not respect the codes of practising this sport and also indulge in over-hunting. This has posed a threat to these beautiful birds as well as to the cultural offshoot of the game itself.

In order to preserve this sport for posterity’s sake, the UAE government is working in collaboration with UNESCO for imbuing falconry with the status of a cultural heritage across the globe.